and risk analysis, are transferable to virtually any industry.

 Example:  If you previously analyzed creditworthiness for a mortgage broker, you could just as easily analyze credit-worthiness for an energy company or a real estate investment firm.

 

 Become more specific about the job you want.  Don't just apply for jobs . . . apply for your dream job.  Many job hunters become desperate during difficult economic times and apply for any job that is available.  Reasons why that is a mistake...

 

 Passion and enthusiasm are a job seeker's best sales tools.  An employer can see the fire in your eyes when you apply for a dream job. . Or the desperation in your eyes when you apply for a job that you really don't want.  Considering the job competition, no fire means no chance.

 

 There might never be a better opportunity to enter the profession that you always wanted to try. Some people spend their whole lives in jobs they don't love, because it is difficult to leave an established career and accept a smaller paycheck.  Lose your job in this economy, and your career and paycheck are likely to take a hit no matter where you find work.  You might as well take your shot at a job you really want.

 

 Targeting a specific job make it easier for other people to help you.  If you tell friends and colleagues that you are willing to take almost any job, they will have no idea whom to call or what to do to help you move in the right direction - they won't even know what the right direction is.  If you are specific about the career path you wish to pursue, you'll seem driven, not desperate.  People will not just want to help - they will know what they can do to help.

 Example:  An executive laid off from the struggling automotive sector might tell his contacts, "I'm really fascinated about the possibility of applying next-generation automotive fuel-efficiency technologies to the farm and lawn machinery sector."  Anyone who knows someone in the sector is likely to see this as a timely idea and be happy to help.

 

 Offer employers a low-risk hire.  Businesses are not anxious to add employees when the economy is lagging - new employees mean additional fixed costs at a time when employers are struggling for profitability and security.

 Consider presenting potential employers with a lower-risk alternative to hiring you outright.  Suggest that the employer take you on as an independent consultant.  Or that your compensation be based on your performance.

 Downside:  Independent consultants typically do not receive health insurance or other benefits.  Performance-based compensation makes sense only if you have a fighting chance to make your project a success.

 

 Volunteer your way to a paid job.  Donate your time to a nonprofit organization when you are out