When the economy goes bad, naturally people become concerned about the safety of their jobs. Granted, not all jobs are equally vulnerable to lay offs during a recession. Some jobs tend to be safer than others. The following are jobs you should consider if you want to have a recession-proof job.

Nursing, medicine and other health care professions are recession-proof professions for the simple reason that people are always going to become ill no matter what happens. In fact, people may become ill more often when they lack basic insurance, when they fail to adhere to a proper diet or when they lack the ability to take steps that could prevent the health problems entirely.

Pharmacy is a safe career in a recession because as long as people become ill, there will be a need for doctors to prescribe medications. If medications get prescribed, you have to go and get the medications from a pharmacy. Thus, if you are a pharmacist who works in a pharmacy where you dispense medication, your job will most likely be secure in a recession.

Education is another safe career area to be in because no matter how bad the economy is, children will always need to go to elementary school, junior high school and high school. Thus, there will always be a need for teachers, principals and other school-related personnel to meet the needs of those who must attend school. In addition, students will always attend college and graduate school in order to become educated and start a career. Thus there will always be a need for college professors, college administrators and others who work in the college environment.

Accounting is a safe profession during a recession because as the economy gets worse, individuals and companies will still have to pay taxes. Since they still have to pay taxes, they will seek ways to find more tax deductions. In order to make sure they are getting all of the deductions they can get, they will need skilled accountants who stay abreast of tax law and who know how to find the deductions.

Bankruptcy law is another safe career area during a recession because, as economic troubles force individuals and companies into bankruptcy, they need bankruptcy lawyers to help them through the process of declaring bankruptcy. The bankruptcy process involves several steps. For instance, people have to go for an initial interview, fill out forms, go to a meeting of the creditors and go through other steps. Bankruptcy lawyers help to demystify the process and help clients through bankruptcy.

The aforementioned jobs are just a few examples of recession-proof jobs. Find out more information about these careers. Find out the requirements that must be met in order to pursue these professions.

The last two years have been particularly hard on the job market. The recession led to the loss of 7 million jobs and has left 1 in every 10 Americans unemployed. Growing concern has surfaced over the government’s handling of the issue. In President Barack Obama’s State of the Union address on January 27, 2010, job growth featured prominently in his plans for reigniting economic growth, designating it as his number one focus for 2010. He presented several areas in which jobs would be created and serve the road to long term recovery.

The creation of infrastructure projects to move goods, services and information, investment in clean energy jobs, increase in exporting activities and incentives for small business development were highlighted as initiatives to put Americans back to work.

Through the government’s funding of improving the nation’s infrastructure, America would be better able to compete in the global market, laying the foundation for future stability and growth. He cited Tampa Bay as an example where jobs were being filled in the construction of a new high speed railway, and that across America the development of the country’s infrastructure would ensure job creation and long term security.

Investment in clean energy products and clean energy power plants were shown to offer an exciting opportunity for America to take the lead in research and innovation. Solar panels, solar battery packs, bio-fuels and clean coal technologies were given as examples wherein their development and others of their kind, would serve to provide jobs for millions of people.

The export of more goods would support more job creation. The President revealed that he was going to enact a national export initiative in order to double export figures within 5 years. The move will generate the creation of 2 million more jobs and help farmers and small business owners to be increasingly more competitive in the global market.

The movement of jobs overseas has negatively impacted the potential for job growth in America. Therefore the President indicated that he would cut the tax breaks for companies that send jobs overseas and shift the break to those businesses that keep the jobs in America. With the removal of the capital gains tax on small business and the disincentive to outsource jobs, the job market will be better positioned to take on employees.

Everything considered, prospects for the job market look positive as the President’s plan laid out an aggressive and comprehensive approach to building long term growth and stability. With his focus squarely fixed on this issue, he challenged both houses of congress and both parties to quickly get a job bill passed so that the American people can get back to work.

Networking on the Internet is the most efficient way to search for new job opportunities. Networking Sites bring people, contacts, companies, headhunters and even a friend or two right to your desktop. These sites allow you to target thousands of potential possibilities with a click of the mouse.

Job boards and job sites are great places to find job listings, but networking sites allow you to target the people you know and leverage your relationships to find a great position.

Linkedin.com

Linkedin is a premier networking site for job seekers, companies, and recruiters. Once you sign up for this free service you can maximize your exposure by linking your profile to other sites. Learn how to gain top ranking in major search engines like Yahoo or Google.

You can check on a prospective company’s health such as profit margins and employee satisfaction. You can even find out about the manager who will interview you! If the site is used to it’s full potential you should be able to pick and choose a rewarding career.

Jobirn.com

What sets Jobirn apart from other networking sites is the referral system. Referrers are actual employees who can “refer” you as a candidate for a job opening in their company. This is where good networking comes into play. You can also chat live with recruiters and Human resources to apply for a job without having to wait the usual two or three days for your resume to be read in an e-mail.

If your computer is equipped with a web cam, quite a few companies will conduct a live interview. You are supplied with a personal representative to help you navigate through the system.

Jobster.com

Jobster only communicates between job seekers and employers. One unique feature it does offer is the ability for you to tag your skills. Employers looking for these particular skills will automatically be sent to your career profile. You can add employers to your contact list and will be notified of an opening. Jobster is easy to navigate and user-friendly.

Looking for employment can be frustrating and sometimes depressing. Using the Internet for your job search is only one of the tools in your arsenal. Always keep your eyes and ears open to all avenues of employment.

Though it may seem a bit counter-intuitive, sometimes volunteering and internships are the best ways to score a job. While it may seem unrealistic to work for free, the benefits of volunteering can be so great that counting pennies for the short-term will be well worth it in the long run. The following are just a few reasons why volunteering could be the key to jump-starting your career:

1. Experience – no matter what your background or education level, employers are much more likely to hire an applicant who has experience in the field. By volunteering in the line of work you desire to be in, you will gain new experience that is marketable. Having a chance to work in your chosen field, learn about it every day, and develop related skills will prove invaluable in your future job searches.

2. Making Connections – no doubt you’ve heard that “it’s all about who you know”. In many cases that’s true, and volunteering/internships are a great way to get your foot in the door. Chances are you will create a network of people who can refer you to jobs, put in a good word for you, or keep you in mind when paid positions do open up. Additionally, companies often have assignments they need completed immediately. Since you are already there volunteering and know how the company operates, it’s likely they’ll choose you to fill any hiring needs they may have on short or long term projects.

3. Proving your worth – hiring new employees is always a risk for employers and can be costly. This means that the more confident they are that you’ll be a good fit for the job, the likelier it is you’ll be hired. If you have already been volunteering, you can show co-workers and management that you are a team-player, hard-working, and dedicated. When a position opens up, you’re sure to be the safest bet. And if no position opens up there, your co-workers and boss are certain to be a great reference for you when applying for other jobs.

4. Discovering your strengths – volunteering is a great way to test out what you’re good at, what you’re not, what you like, and what you don’t. You may discover hidden talents and job skills that you didn’t even know you posssessed, which will make finding the right job in the future much easier.
Just like with any paid position, there is always hard work involved. Volunteering will only be useful if you make the most of it and give it your all.

The past year has brought a huge amount of job seekers onto the market. For these unfortunate folks, many are eagerly searching popular job listing websites. While that is an essential part of the job hunt, an even more important strategy is social networking. Research indicates at least 80% of jobs are found through social connections. Put yourself in the employer’s shoes: you post an ad for a position, and you receive 150 qualified resumes. Wouldn’t a resume with a personal connection go to the top of the list? The following strategies will help you tap into the importance of who you know, and who you DON’T know (yet).

1) Create accounts with Facebook and Linked In. If you think these sites are just for Generation Y-ers, here are some statistics for you: the fastest growing Facebook demographic is ages 35-54. Linked In is a network for professionals. The beauty of these sites is that you can not only tap into your personal contacts, but the contacts of your contacts! Example: create a post on Facebook explaining that you are looking for work in a certain field. You may be surprised at the amount of contacts who could know someone in a reputable firm and would grant an interview on a personal referral. And since both sites are completely free of charge, you have nothing to lose! And one post on Facebook takes much less time than calling everyone in your address book.

2) Join a local networking group. Since the latest downturn in the economy, networking groups have popped up everywhere. Membership or attendance is usually free, and they can turn up some very good leads! Standard events can be anything from a casual morning coffee, to a more structured event where people share their skills and job history, and people can exchange contacts and leads.

3) Join your local trade association. Regardless of your profession, you most likely have a local trade association that you can join! Although associations usually charge for membership, they can be an effective way to network with people specific to your trade. In addition, you can take on leadership roles that will be impressive on your resume.

4) Non-job related events. Now is not the time to stay at home feeling sorry for yourself! Go ahead and fill up your dancing card and go to that wedding, birthday party or barbeque at your friend’s house. Make a point of meeting new people in person! Of course you don’t need to bring your resume with you, but mingle with other guests you might not know and when the topic of jobs comes up (it always does) mention what you’re looking for. If nothing else, having fun is always a good way to keep your spirits up!

5) Volunteer. While you’ve got extra time on your hands, give back to the community! There are so many organizations looking for help. It’s a great way to meet people and it’s another impressive activity for your resume. And just like #4, it will help keep your spirits up during a difficult time!

Most importantly, don’t lose your confidence in your abilities! By following the above tips, it’s only a matter of time before you find a great opportunity.

Seeking a letter of recommendation can be quite a tedious process, but with the right connections, whether from a supervisor or instructor, it is possible to impress prospective employers and land a great position. The best advice when seeking a letter of recommendation is to find supervisors who happen to know your specific talents and skills the best. Typically, readers will try to determine the level of familiarity between the boss and the subject by examining the details of the letter. If there is not enough of a connection between the letter and the subject, then the letter will lack credibility.

When approaching your boss for a letter of recommendation, as long as you have been a hard-working, diligent employee, he or she should have no issue with writing a recommendation. References from coworkers and vendors are sometimes just as effective. Another method for asking your current boss that you would like a letter is simply to state that you need it for your files, to be used perhaps at another time in the future. Generally speaking, employers want to know if you work where you say you do, your existing title, and how long you have been working there. Oftentimes the details of a letter are insignificant and actually damning if they detail too much. So make sure that your employer knows your strengths and is prepared to write about them. It may be wise to remind your current employer of those specific instances where you have gone above-and-beyond expectation, and see to it that those important aspects are not overlooked. Bosses are oftentimes inundated with work, so it is up to you to bring attention to your special attributes, a lighthearted, peaceful approach always fairs best.

When applying to an academic entity, a letter from upper-level professors and senior professors are far more impressive than those from teaching assistants or adjunct professors. Refrain from seeking a recommendation from the most elite academic professor unless there is a legitimate relationship involved. A highly sought after signature will not outweigh a letter that does not expose a genuine authority on the subject at hand, or at least a close academic relationship between the mentor and subject. It is much better to get a letter from a TA, junior faculty, or adjunct professor, etc., that knows the subject and can comment on specific achievements and attributes. Oftentimes, a professor will agree to sign a letter of recommendation from a TA, this is certainly an option. Business schools, professional schools, and other jobs typically will require a letter from current employment, but if your current amount of time at work has not amounted to much, then perhaps a previous employer should be sought. The employer needs to be well aware of your achievements and accomplishments.

With regard to jobs and business schools, recommendation letters are an essential component in opening the doors to your future. Employers in companies differ immensely when it comes to their abilities to write quality recommendation letters. Once again, starting the process early is essential. Build relationships on a daily basis because you never know when you may rely on that letter—building a portfolio is often useful. Upon leaving any current employment, you should ask your supervisor for a letter—provided of course that you are on good terms.

Make sure the areas in which your contributions were most notable are in fact on the letter itself, and ideally the letter should show that you are invaluable in some way. The best way to ask for a letter or recommendation, whether academic or business related, it is always smart to ask personally; this shows initiative on your part. Normally, businesses deal with dozens of letters of recommendations per year, so it is up to you to stand out from the pack, and cultivate the seeds early.

In this economy, the unemployment rate is up and jobs are hard to come by. Every available job will have competition and being prepared for you interview will help you ace the interview and land that job.

Focus on Appearance
First impressions go a long way and how you look will be a factor in the decision process. Your outfit should be something appropriate to the job you are applying for. Be sure your outfit is flattering but conservative. Take a shower, get a haircut, clean your fingernails, shave. You want to put your best foot forward. If you look sloppy and not put together, it will be assumed your work will be the same way.

Spice up Resume
Every resume could use some tailoring up when looking for a new job. An interviewer will do a quick scan of these and will read the ones that catch their attention. Change your resume around some so that it is specific to the position being applied for. Your employment history needs to be on the resume, but also list some details about what you did in that job. List your accomplishments and list any additional training or skills that may be pertinent to the position.

Body Language
Body language is the unspoken language. This goes along with how you present yourself. Go into an interview being confident and with your head held high. Be sure not to slouch, have good posture and have a good, firm handshake. Make eye contact with the interviewer and be enthusiastic about the interview.

Research
Go into the interview knowing about the company you want to work for. Most companies have a website with tons of information. Spend some time gaining as much information as you can. Know what their business plan is, who their customer base is and know how they operate. Use this information in the interview to show the interviewer that you are serious about the position.

Ask Questions
During the interview you will be asked a lot of questions. Ask some questions of the interviewer. Try to keep the questions relevant to the interview, but if the conversation does sway off topic a bit, you can ask questions about that as well. Asking questions will show that interviewer that you are willing to learn and eager to do so.

Have Answers Prepared
In just about every interview there will be basic questions that will come up. These questions have to do with your future goals, where you see yourself in five years, how you can benefit the company and why you should be hired. Preparing answers for these questions before hand will allow you to answer these on the spot with confidence.

Be Yourself
In an interview you are trying to sell yourself and that you are the best for the position. Be yourself and act as you would normally act. Trying to be what you think they are looking for will only make you look foolish and will lower your chances of being hired. Be who you are, be confident, go in with an open mind and you will do great.

Thousands of jobs are and being cut daily in the United States. Projections show that many job sectors like the real estate market, financial services, residential construction, and automobile manufacturing are vulnerable to job losses in the upcoming year. In light of the ominous economic forecast, there is a lot of talk about finding a coveted “recession-proof” job.

However, the term can be a bit misleading. A Human Resources Manager in San Francisco explained, “There’s a general misconception that there are scores of ‘recession-proof’ job openings out there that are somehow absolutely secure. Unfortunately, no job has that kind of guarantee.” Instead, “recession-proof” simply refers to the job sectors that are more resilient during this turbulent time.

Healthcare Professionals – If we don’t have our health, nothing else really matters. Being healthy and staying healthy, will always be one of our most basic needs. So, the demand for skilled healthcare professionals (doctors, nurses, psychologists, dentists) will remain high.

House and Car Repairs – Though there seems to be a general freeze on new home and automobile purchases, consumers are more willing to have their homes repaired and their old clunkers serviced. As a result, handymen and mechanics are experiencing an increase in demand.

Law Enforcement and Security – Difficult economic times usually line up with increases in robberies, theft, and crime. And so the demand for policemen and other security services is currently high.

Personal/Beauty Care – Most people think that this would be an entirely discretionary sector. Some of the upscale beauticians and cosmetologists may feel the pinch, but places that find a way to service haircuts to a down-market will most likely be okay. In the scope of things, haircuts are a relatively inexpensive way for consumers to feel good about themselves.

Food Industry – Even though bad financial news might give make our stomachs turn, we still need to fill it with food. Like the healthcare sector, there is a constant demand that needs to be fed. Up-market restaurants may be hurt as frugal family’s find ways to stay within their budget by eating at home or frequenting places that offer discounted meals or coupons.

The general rule of thumb is businesses that rely on discretionary spending like entertainment, new houses, automobile market, home furnishings, the travel industry will likely continue to see more and more job loses. While businesses that provide products and services that are essential, critical and needed like healthcare, food, childcare, primary education, legal services (particularly bankruptcy law), and security are considered “recession-proof.” These job markets are better equipped to weather (and might even thrive during) this economic maelstrom.

Related Links:

      Find Accounting Jobs   Find Local Jobs   File for Unemployment Online
 

With today’s weakening global economy, and our nation’s rising unemployment, more and more highly skilled, dependable workers are being let go from their jobs on a daily basis; and some have even worked that one job for several decades. All of this has the working population of America scrambling for a new job – and as a result, some are becoming quite competitive for the few job openings that are left in their area. Fortunately, there is a solution for rising unemployment rates, and for those who have trouble finding the right job for them. And that solution is none other than HotJobs.com.

Powered by internet giant Yahoo HotJobs is your best source for finding employment on the World Wide Web. But this isn’t just some website that popped up over night – not by any means. Hotjobs.com has been helping U.S. citizens find employment all around the country for several years now, and their partnership with Yahoo only increases the capabilities and effectiveness of what is already a well-established and reputable online company.

But perhaps best of all, unlike many of the other employment related websites out there who want you to pay for their services, everything on HotJobs.com is completely free of charge! All you have to do is sign up for an account on their website, submit your resume, and watch the job offers come rolling in. In the event that the offers don’t come quick enough for your liking, you can search for specific jobs, as well; so you can make sure to find a place of employment where you’ll be not only comfortable, but productive as well.

Furthermore, you’ll find thousands of articles that offer tips on a variety of career-related aspects, including tips to improve your resume, how to act (or how not to act) at a job interview, and much more. You can even compare salaries not only of different careers, but of salaries in different areas, as well – so you’ll know if relocating to a nearby city really will provide you with more money. If you’re looking for a job in any area of expertise, HotJobs.com is a site that is not to be ignored.

And because HotJobs.com is such a well-known site to find prospective workers, employers of all types frequent the site when looking to fill positions within their company. Some of these companies even choose to advertise exclusively on Yahoo HotJobs, so you might be able to find an employment opportunity here that you won’t even find in your local newspaper or on any other sites. Moreover, since so many employers use HotJobs.com, your chances of finding employment in a town or city near you is even greater than any of their competitors.

So whether you’ve recently lost your job, had your hours cut back, or even if you are just looking for your first summer job as a teenager, Yahoo HotJobs can help you gain financial independence through employment. For more information and to get started with your job hunt today, click on the link below to get started immediately – after all, this is your future we’re talking about here.

Accountants are used all over the world no matter where you go you will find these trained specialists working at keeping the financial figures of the world in line. No matter what the business is there are accountants, many corporate leaders have a background in accounting, the business world is growing everyday, and the need for people trained in the accounting profession is growing quickly.

The study requirements to become an accountant are generally business related; studies in corporate finance, International finance, or financial planning these fields have a growing need for accountants. It is not always necessary to have formal training to become an accountant in some places. It is possible to study under a qualified individual or firm in order to become an accountant, although formal study is a very good route to take.

A Bachelors degree in accounting is the standard for the majority of the states for accounting training, being a job requiring a great deal of paperwork accounting is done in the office environment. A CPA examine is required by most states, this gives clout to the accountants qualifications. Having professional affiliations helps the marketability and a Masters’ degree can be the norm for an accountant considering extra training is required beyond the bachelors’ degree program. People trained in accounting are qualified to work in a large range of fields; they work in law, as professors, in banking, as well as consulting firms. An accountants salary can range from $47,000 to $57,000 per year, managerial accountants can easily average 85,000 per year.

The world is evolving into a financial metropolis, countries all over the world are doing business in seconds, and money is changing hands at lightning speed. This exchange of financial paperwork must be calculated filed and documented; the machinery of this financial movement can only be fully understood by the accountant. Tax accountants are the group the average person seems to know about but of course there are so many other accounting fields where specialized financial training is necessary. With many financial regulations changing and the requirement for more open financial records it will be necessary to have more accountants.

The field of accounting is a very interesting and varied in the advantages that it offers. The circles you are allowed to work in are many; you are welcome in law enforcement, as well as many other professions. The help of the accountant is needed by the corner grocer as well as the corporate board room. Shipping firms and government entities need accountants, this is a global industry, and the limits of its reach are few.

Related Links:

      Find Accounting Jobs   File for Unemployment Online   Local Unemployment Office