How real people found jobs in this economy

Ellie has a marketing and advertising background and was surprised to find it so hard to get work through the internet job boards. Job networking support groups taught her that networking, volunteering where you can showcase your skills and meeting people face-to-face were the keys to finding employment. Through the process she not only found a job, she discovered her unique abilities, learned how to articulate them, met people that have become true friends, and re-discovered what is so special about her own home town.

After leaving a stable job in early 2008 as senior HR consultant, Ken's new talent management position at a small research firm was eliminated when the recession took hold in late 2008. In his nine-month job search, he used multiple available tools including networking, consulting assignments, social media, and online job boards to land his new position in HR with a major national non-profit.

Phil was laid off from his position as an information analyst in 2008 after more than 15 years with the company. Networking, volunteering and writing a great resume were all keys to landing his new position. Through volunteering he made a great connection with a current employee at his new company in the growing healthcare industry.