Job hunting during a recession is difficult and exhausting, but there are definitely some steps you can take to improve your situation during such trying times. The most important first step is to develop a strategy for your job search. One important element of any strategy is to stay connected -- don't personalize disappointments, realize that everyone is affected by the shortage of good jobs and the very competitive marketplace seemingly full of very qualified auditors.
Here are some specific additional steps you can take:
Take advantage of this time to improve your educations and skills. It might be a great
opportunity to pick up an MBA or take technical training, even if it means stretching your
budget.
-
Attend every meeting you possibly can of the professional organizations relevant to your
field - e.g., the IIA and ISACA. Both organizations are taking steps to assist
their members. The IIA has recently instituted a program where members who are unemployed
and cannot afford to renew their dues can get one year's renewal for free —
www.theiia.org has the details about
the program.
-
We all know that it costs money to attend IIA and ISACA luncheons and dinners, and
these prices may be out of your current budget. On the other hand, I have never heard
of a chapter anywhere in the country that would not allow members the option to come
after the meal and attend the seminar or training part of the meeting at no cost. Some
chapters offer members who are unemployed the opportunity to attend lunch and dinner
meetings at a discounted price. Other chapters assign responsibilities to unemployed
members to keep them involved and active in their profession.
-
Volunteering at the chapter level of the IIA and ISACA is a good way to stay connected, to
be visible and to be more aware of job opportunities that may soon be surfacing.
In June I will continue this article with additional ideas to help both candidates and
managers/directors wanting to keep their teams motivated.
If you have any thoughts on coping with a recession send me an
e-mail.
Richard Tuck
