Are you tired of reading job ads that sound like a great match for you, only to find out that they require a college degree? You might start feeling like you’re the only one who didn’t finish college.
 
The truth is that you have plenty of company. Two thirds of American adults lack a bachelor’s degree, according to the US Census Bureau. While higher education is enriching, it can also be difficult to afford.
 
You can have a satisfying career without a four-year degree. Learn how to continue your education or find high paying jobs with the qualifications you have now.

A growing number of employers are reconsidering the degree inflation that occurred in recent years. Some major companies no longer require a bachelor’s for certain positions. You can find many opportunities if you know how to look.
 
Keep these tips in mind: 

1. Be realistic. Some fields are more flexible than others. Look for jobs that don’t specify a degree or say that it’s preferred rather than required.
   
   
2. Demonstrate soft skills. Job descriptions often call for a degree because  it’s a convenient way to screen for candidates who in addition to having certain specific skills, may be more likely to have desirable communication skills and personality traits. You may be able to show them that you have the qualities they’re seeking.

​​

1. Focus on experience. Use the application and interview process to explain how your background will help you to add value. Incorporate relevant keywords and describe your accomplishments.
   
   
2. Use your network. Personal contacts may help you to reach hiring managers. Ask family and friends for referrals. Reach out through social media.
   
   
3. Employ yourself. Maybe you can become your own boss. Consider starting a business or doing contract work. If you exceed expectations on your first assignments, you’ll probably develop a steady stream of clients.
   
   
4. Master technology. Employers who need specific computer skills may be less interested in your other course work. There are many high paying opportunities for webmasters, graphic designers, and other technology professionals.
   
   
5. Project confidence. Think positive and try to avoid being defensive about your background. Talk about your strengths rather than your lack of a college degree but be prepared to answer the question if it comes up.

​One out of every eight employers utilizes temporary or contract employees. It is estimated that between 17 million and 41 million people work as consultants, freelancers, contract workers, temporary employees, seasonal or on-call workers, and interns. About 15 million of those are considered “full-time independents,” working more than 15 hours a week.
 
On September 25, 2020, The Federal Register published Independent Contractor Status Under the Fair Labor Standards Act. It explained that MBO Partners, a leading American staffing firm, finds that almost half of U.S. adults — 47.8 percent — report either currently working or having worked as an independent worker at some time during their career. Over the next five years, this number is projected to increase to 53 percent of the workforce either currently working as an independent worker or who will have worked as an independent.
 
Independent work — in particular, contract work — is attractive to individuals who are looking to return to the workforce while or after caring for children or aging parents and those who are looking to transition from full-time employment into semi-retirement. It’s also increasingly an option for those who are starting their careers.
 
This is supported by the statistics: Millennials — born between 1980 and 2000 — made up 38 percent of the full-time independent workforce in 2019, according to MBO Partners’ “State of Independence” report. Baby boomers, born between 1946 and 1964, encompass 33 percent.
 
Temporary and contract workers are an important part of the workforce. Contract workers offer companies flexibility in staffing and help fill in gaps (especially in growing companies), to address seasonal needs, or when permanent employees are on leave, sabbatical, or vacation.
 
Contract and temporary opportunities are particularly attractive to jobseekers during recessions and economic downturns. For the jobseeker, the interview-to-hire process is often shorter, meaning you can be back to work more quickly. Even companies that have enacted a hiring freeze may still be taking on temporary or contract employees, because this money often comes from a different budget than traditional salaries.
 
Eighty percent of full-time independent workers are independent by choice. More than half say they will not go back to a traditional job. In addition, 53 percent of full-time independent workers report they feel “more secure” working independently. This is perhaps a reflection that even traditional employment has no guarantees of stability.
 
And a growing number of contract positions are for remote work, removing geographic proximity from the requirements for working these types of positions.

Temporary positions — or contract work opportunities — are an alternative to full-time, permanent work. Contract and temporary work can also be a side hustle to supplement your income. In 2019, 15 million people had a side hustle, an increase of more than 40 percent since 2016.
 
Contract workers may be self-employed or may be contracted through an agency. Self-employed workers are responsible for their own taxes, insurance, and benefits, while agencies often employ contract workers as W-2 employees (handling the billing, paperwork, and taxes for the contract employee).
 
There is sometimes a perception that contract work is only for low-paying, lower-skill jobs. This isn’t true. There are contract opportunities available for almost any field and industry and for a wide variety of positions — up to, and including C-suite roles. Contract work opportunities are common in creative service professions as well as the information technology, financial services, and healthcare industries.
 
Among full-time independent workers, the average income is $68,300, according to MBO Partners. This is higher than the median family household income in the United States ($59,039). About 20 percent of full-time independent workers earn more than $100,000 a year. In 2019, 40 percent of independent workers had a 4-year college degree or higher, including 17 percent who hold advanced degrees.
 
 Jobs may be listed as “contract” or “temporary ” — but they’re not the same. Contract positions are for a specified time period. Temporary positions, on the other hand, may not have a defined time period. Temporary workers may be directly employed by an employer, or may be employees of a temporary agency. Contract workers, unless hired through an agency or consulting firm, are independent contractors. This means you are responsible for your own taxes, insurance, and benefits. In essence, you are self-employed and the company you’re working for is your client.
 
One important distinction between permanent and contractor or temporary positions has to do with the Internal Revenue Service. IRS regulations dictate that the employer cannot have as much control over how a contract worker does his or her job as it would with a permanent employee. While the requirements of the position don’t change if it’s permanent or temporary, the employer can’t define how the work is done by a contract worker.
 
Because it’s easier to find a job when you have a job, accepting a contract position makes you more attractive to prospective employers. In addition, contract work opportunities can often lead to a full-time, permanent position, especially if the opportunity is advertised as a “temp-to-hire” position. This type of arrangement allows a company to see if the individual has the skills, education, and personality the position requires before committing to a permanent position.

As with any type of position, there are advantages and disadvantages to contract work opportunities.
 
Some advantages:

• Contract work allows a jobseeker to gain experience in a new field or industry without committing to full-time employment.
• Compensation may be at a higher hourly rate than what would be paid to an employee, to compensate for a lack of job security and benefits.
• In most cases, contract workers are eligible for unemployment benefits when a contract ends, providing a bridge to benefits for individuals who may have been fired from a previous role.
• Contract work may turn into a full-time, permanent job offer in the future.

 
Some disadvantages:

• Contract work often offers no employment benefits (although limited benefits are sometimes available, especially if working through an agency or Employer of Record).
• Contract opportunities are perceived to be less stable than permanent jobs.
• Because of the risk of being accused of “misclassifying” contractors as employees by the IRS, contract workers may not be invited to participate in employee functions.

Contract work opportunities can be found in many of the same ways as traditional job opportunities are found: networking, online job boards, and direct contact with prospective employers.
 
Online
When searching for contract opportunities online, look to the traditional large job boards such as Indeed.com, SimplyHired.com, CareerBuilder.com, Glassdoor.com, and Monster.com. Use search filters to identify contract and temporary roles (not all job boards offer “contract” or “temporary” as search filters, but many do).
 
Also consider specialized marketplaces, like FlexJobs.com, Outsourcely, WorkingNomads.co, or industry-specific job sites like Mediabistro, ProBlogger.com, Dribble.com, or Authentic Jobs (for creative and media opportunities) or Dice.com or Stack Overflow (for technology positions).
 
You can also find online job boards specifically for remote opportunities.
 
These include:
Remote|OK
Remotive
Hubstaff Talent
Skip The Drive
Virtual Vocations
Jobspresso
We Work Remotely
 
Some of these sites require a subscription to access job opportunities, but may also offer benefits, such as access to education and training.
 
Not familiar with marketplaces in your target industry? Search for “contract work” + your industry or “freelance jobs” + your industry and see what comes up. For example, a search of “contract work” + public relations yielded several online sites, including RemotePRJobs.com (a subscription site) and PeoplePerHour.com.
 
There are also online marketplaces to match freelancers with opportunities. These include sites like Guru.com, Freelancer.com, and Upwork.com. Some of the gigs posted are extremely short-term (a one-time project, or a one-week project), while others are contract opportunities lasting 3 months, 6 months, or longer.
 
Social Media
Search LinkedIn for contract work opportunities. One of the search criteria is “Job Type” and both contract and temporary positions are available in the search. (If applicable, also choose the “Remote” search criteria to expand beyond your current geographic area.) You can also check out Company Pages on LinkedIn and see what other companies LinkedIn recommends you connect with or follow.
 
Word of mouth is consistently reported as one of the top ways to secure contract work. Staying connected with previous co-workers and supervisors on social media ensures you are top-of-mind when a contract opportunity comes about. If you are unemployed, be sure to let your network know you are open to contract work opportunities.
 
Direct Contact
Another source of contract opportunities is previous employers. This is especially relevant if your current position was eliminated due to an economic downturn. Your previous employer may be interested in hiring you as a contract employee. The funding for this work may be available from a different budget line item. While you may not be able to get as many hours as you would as a full-time employee, you already know the job, and that makes this option attractive to your previous employer too. And you’ll be in a position to be re-hired full-time in the future if the economic situation changes.
 
Consulting Companies/Agencies
There are a number of agencies and consulting firms that help connect contract workers with employers. Some of these specialize in particular industries, while others serve a wide variety of independent workers.
 
Business management firms for contract workers, such as MBO Partners, can not only help facilitate a match between a contract worker and an employer, but also help handle billing and paperwork related to contract employment. Some even offer the opportunity to participate in benefit programs, such as health insurance and retirement plans and/or offer liability insurance.
 
Some possible sources include:
MBO Partners
Creative Circle
Toptal
Field Nation
WorkMarket
 
Other firms act as the “Employer Of Record” (EOR) for companies, handling the administrative, compliance, and financial logistics for employing contract workers.
 
Some of these firms include:
FoxHire
SafeGuard Global
Airswift
Lano

As a contract worker, there are some things you may not have had to consider previously, but that need addressed.
 
Scope of Work Agreement (SWA)
One of the most important documents for contract workers is a Scope of Work Agreement (SWA). This written agreement outlines the details of the arrangement between the contract worker and the employer. The agreement should state that the arrangement is one between an independent contractor and the contracting company. The contract should also specify — in writing — what the specific responsibilities and deliverables are, including deadlines. The SWA may also outline the specific timeframe for the contract arrangement. It should also detail the amounts and timing of payments, including when payments are due, and what happens if payments are not made. Finally, it should clarify ownership of the work being performed. Does the contract worker or the hiring company own the work? Both parties should sign and retain copies of the SWA.
 
Insurance
If the contract worker is functioning as a self-employed individual, there are several types of insurance to consider. In addition to health insurance, the contract worker may be required to show proof of liability coverage. In addition, if possible, the contract worker should obtain short-term and/or long-term disability coverage, although that may be difficult to secure and/or costly, depending on the type of work being performed.
 
For health insurance, consider procuring health insurance through the Affordable Care Act Marketplace at https://www.healthcare.gov. If you have recently lost your insurance coverage from a traditional employer, you may be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period outside of the annual open enrollment dates. Also, consider short-term health insurance plans, which provide more limited coverage but at a lower cost. These plans are available for terms of up to 12 months (renewable up to 36 months, depending on state of residence).
 
Liability policies may be available through your regular insurance agent or specialized agencies, such as Hiscox. In addition, some Employer of Record agencies offer liability insurance coverage.
 
Benefits
One of the disadvantages to contract work is a lack of benefits — in particular, retirement and health insurance. In the same way that you should secure your own health insurance, you should fund your own retirement plan. One option is to open a Roth IRA, an individual retirement account that allows you to set aside money for your retirement that can be withdrawn tax-free, provided certain conditions are satisfied. The money invested within the Roth IRA grows tax-free. Contributions can be made at any age, as long as the account holder has earned income.
 
You do have to meet income requirements to contribute to a Roth IRA. In 2020, the income limit for singles is $139,000; for married couples, the limit is $206,000. The amount you can contribute to a Roth IRA also changes periodically. In 2020, the contribution limit is $6,000 a year for individuals up to age 50; those 50 and older can contribute $7,000. Almost all brokerage firms, banks, and investment companies offer a Roth IRA. Consult a financial advisor for specific information.
 
Taxes
One of the biggest differences between permanent employment and contract employment is taxes. If you are employed through a staffing agency or Employer of Record, that organization may assist with tax compliance. If, however, you are self-employed, you are responsible for withholding and submitting your own taxes, including quarterly estimated taxes. You should consult with a qualified tax advisor to ensure you are setting aside and remitting the correct amounts to both the state and federal government.

Contract work is expected to continue to grow in the coming years, especially as remote work opportunities become more available. Technology increases the opportunities to not only perform job responsibilities but also find contract opportunities and handle the billing and paperwork associated with working independently.
 
Contract work is especially appealing to skilled professionals, aging baby boomers who are looking for more control over their time in their pre-retirement years, and millennials, who like the flexibility of contract work.
 
Employers also find a contract work arrangement to be beneficial, giving them access to skilled workers who want more control over their time and income. And because contract workers can be employed on an as-needed basis, it gives employers flexibility to respond to changing economic situations.
 
The future of work is likely to be more fluid. Instead of a series of long-term, permanent positions, workers may find themselves shifting between independent work and traditional employment. Some industries, such as the film industry, have provided a model for team- and project-oriented work for many years. Research suggests this is likely to become more common in other industries, such as information technology, healthcare, and government services.
 
So whether you’re considering contract work as a bridge between permanent positions or a new way of working, you’re part of a trend in the workforce.

Whether you’ve already lost your job through down-sizing, redundancy, or any other reason, or if you’re under threat to lose your job, your first thoughts run from blind panic to anger, desperation, and all points in between, especially if you have a family and all the commitments that go with it.
 
It’s especially daunting if you’ve been in that position for a long time and assumed that you had that job for life. When it’s the only job you’ve ever known, finding out that your job has gone can be devastating.
 
Even if it’s a job that you’ve tolerated for years, when you no longer have it, you suddenly forget all the things you didn’t like about working there and remember only the good. It’s human nature.
 
But the feelings of loss, of being in free-fall, create feelings of doubt. And doubt can cause a huge loss in self-confidence at a time when you need it the most.
 
Rather than block out those feelings, acknowledge them, embrace them, and then let them go. They will not serve you in moving forward.
 
Keep in mind that many layoffs are activated by accountants - usually people you don’t know and have never met. They have no idea who you are, what your skills are, what your true worth is, and how your family might suffer from your job loss. They’re just doing the job that they’re paid for.
 
Why Me?
 
The accountants are simply moving numbers from one column to another on the balance sheet to keep the company solvent and in business. So, avoid wasting your time trying to figure out ‘why me.’ You are just a number to them and there’s no answer to that question.
 
Granted, it might be tough for you to make sense of the situation. But sooner or later, you know you have to get past it, over it, or around it, so why not make it sooner?  Later has no merit at all, does it?
 
Here’s the truth. Losing a job is part of modern society. We live in a rapidly changing world, and this is just another kind of change, and change is the only constant we can truly expect.
 
Look around you. Everyone you know that has a job has come from some other workplace. And most of them ended up with a better job after their move! You can too!
 
Regardless of what happens to you, it’s what you do about what has happened to you that’s important.
 
So, although you didn’t anticipate this change, you can look at it as an opportunity to reinvent yourself, rethink, reset, adjust, and get a clear idea of not only what is possible for you, but what could also change your life for the better.
 
Have you ever had thoughts about a career change? It just might be the perfect time to consider one. It could be so much easier to make such decisions now that your old job isn’t holding you back from going after what you truly desire.
 
Could There be a More Perfect Time? 
Think about it. Could there be a more perfect time to re-define what you want to do with your life and get clear on what’s important to you?
 
Follow these steps to plan your perfect direction: 

1. Decide what you want to avoid. An easy place to start is with what you DON’T want, and then look at the opposite.
   
   
   • For example, if you totally loathe commuting, look at a role where you could work from home. Tens of thousands of people already do, why not you?
     
     
2. What about your chosen field of expertise? If you’re tired of that kind of work, maybe you could consider a career change.
   
   
   • You can find free courses on the internet for thousands of different skill sets. Sign up for as many as you need to get an understanding of what’s out there that just might be a perfect fit for you.
     
     
3. Explore new ideas using your current interests. Consider anything and everything that gets your attention. Start paying close attention to what interests you and what fascinates you. There could be something within arms-reach that you’ve had an interest in for some time. For example:
   
   
   • If you go to the bookstore, what sections do you visit most often?
     
     
   • If you’re channel surfing on TV, what kind of programs do you stop at most often?
     
     
   • If you’re scrolling social media, what stories do you read the most and/or comment on the most?

 
Make copious notes for a week or more. Then go back and review. Notice where the commonalities are and make a decision to follow up on what gets your attention the most.
 
You may find a fascinating new direction to pursue!
 
Some people have found that losing their job was the very best thing that could have happened to them. Why not you?

How to evaluate a job offer: 

1. Set goals. It’s easier to analyze a job offer when you have a clear vision of your career path. Goals enable you to think long-term and focus on how any position can prepare you for your next step.
   
   
2. Weigh the evidence. What are the pros and cons? Identify your priorities. Maybe you’re willing to accept a longer commute in exchange for tuition reimbursements that would enable you to complete a degree.
   
   
3. Consult your feelings. Emotions matter too. That sinking sensation in your stomach could be minor jitters or serious misgivings.
   
   
4. Talk it over. What would you tell a friend in the same situation? Ask someone you trust for feedback. A third party may be able to see things more objectively.
   
   
5. Sleep on it. Recruiters and employers may be pressuring you for a quick decision. If possible, give yourself at least one night to mull things over and gather more information if needed.
   
   
6. Maximize your options. Money troubles are sometimes unavoidable. However, if you can build up your savings, you’ll have more flexibility for extending your job search until you find an opportunity that truly excites you.

• ​Choose your medium. Any channel from email to a personal meeting can be appropriate depending on your previous interactions. When in doubt, you may want to reply to a job offer the same way that it was delivered.

1. Show appreciation. Express your gratitude. Let them know that you appreciate their time and consideration.
   
   
2. Use tact. Most companies will want to know why you’re turning them down. You may be able to provide them with helpful feedback without being too critical. It’s okay to keep it brief.
   
   
3. Be prompt. Avoid causing any further delay. Sending your response in a timely manner will help the company to move ahead with its hiring process.
   
   
4. Stay in touch. There could still be valuable opportunities in the future. If you see such potential, let the company know that you’re interested in hearing about other developments and invite your contacts to connect on platforms like LinkedIn.

 

Not everything has changed.  If you experienced success with your job search strategies before the pandemic, you should still implement them. For example, if you are good at writing Thank You letters of if you are good at following-up, you should still practice your success techniques. 

​Companies hire employees who can solve problems for them. Sales people create revenue. Accountants ensure compliance with regulations and provide financial data that can be used for decision-making. Customer service staff help answer questions, keeping customers happy. Beyond what you do for a company, what is the impact that you have on the organization?
 
It’s even more important to highlight accomplishments on your résumé, LinkedIn profile, and career documents in a competitive job market.
 
Change careers, if necessary, to a new field. Assess your work history and identify older skills and/or experience you can leverage. Seek out opportunities for additional training and learning.

​The more specific you can be about the opportunity that you’re seeking, the more likely you will find it. Take some time to define what you’re looking for in your next job. Are you looking for a position that allows you to work remotely? Do you have a specific schedule you need — for example, because your children are engaging in remote schooling? Having a list of criteria like this can help you identify whether a position will be a good fit — or not.

​Be aware of which industries are holding steady or growing during the pandemic, and which ones are struggling. Focus on essential companies that are not affected by government shutdowns. Create a target list of companies. Researching your prospective employer is even more critical — be aware of changes affecting the company due to the pandemic. Set up Google Alerts to get informed about news affecting your ideal employers. Follow your target companies on LinkedIn. Subscribe to the company’s emails, blog, and social media channels.

​Networking is even more important for a job search during times of high unemployment. Meeting face-to-face or for coffee may not be an option right now, but you can connect virtually. Stay in touch through social media, phone calls, Zoom or FaceTime, email, text, and LinkedIn messages.

Prepare for an online job interview. Set up a specific space for the interview. Make sure it’s someplace quiet with no distractions. Conduct a practice session with a friend on Zoom. When it’s time for the actual interview, dress like you’re going to an in-person interview (head to toe!).
 
Don’t be surprised if you don’t hear back from the interviewer right away. Be patient. The hiring process will likely take even longer than normal. That’s true even if the company initially seemed in a hurry to hire. Do follow up, but don’t be a pest. Ask how the person is doing, and if there’s anything they need from you to move the process along.
 
If you do have a job offer that is put on hold, consider asking if you could work in a contract or temporary role in the meantime. For example, one national furniture rental company is currently in a hiring freeze, but they are staffing with contract/temporary workers in the meantime.

Unemployment numbers are expected to continue to fluctuate through the end of 2020 and into 2021. While the pandemic is new, looking for work in a challenging job market is not. You can supplement some of the “tried and true” job search techniques with special strategies that are necessary because of COVID-19. But there are no hard and fast rules for a job search in a pandemic, so be flexible!
 
Even if you are currently employed now, some companies have announced further layoffs and furloughs as the pandemic stretches into late 2020. It’s important to be prepared for what’s next. This means updating your résumé and LinkedIn profile and taking the time to track and document your accomplishments.
 
In addition, it may be useful to take some time to analyze your transferable skills and experience, particularly if you are in a declining industry or an industry that has been negatively affected by the pandemic.
 
Some things about the job search are the same:

• Companies are still looking to hire problem-solvers
• It’s important to use your network in your job search, as your contacts can help you identify unadvertised job opportunities and connect with hiring managers
• Having an accomplishment-focused, up-to-date résumé and LinkedIn profile can help you secure interviews

 
However, some things are different in a job search during the pandemic:

• Interviews for job opportunities are more likely to be virtual interviews (rather than in person)
• Human resources staffers are likely to be working remotely, and coordinating the hiring process can take more time than it did before the pandemic
• Opportunities for remote work are increasing, and if you are able to do your job remotely, there are even more opportunities, especially outside your current geographic area
• Temporary and short-term positions may be more plentiful. Companies may be wary of taking on permanent, full-time employees when their future is uncertain, but they still have needs to fulfill

 
One important thing to remember: Don’t automatically discard the things that worked for you before in your job search. If you have had success previously with a specific tactic — for example, working with recruiters, or tapping into the hidden job market, don’t write them off just because there is a pandemic.
 
“No One Is Hiring”
Your mindset is especially important when looking for a job during a pandemic. Companies are still hiring new employees. Want proof? Search for openings on job aggregator sites like Indeed.com, SimplyHired, or Monster. Check out the “Jobs on Facebook” feature (https://www.facebook.com/jobs/) or LinkedIn Jobs (https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/). You’ll see hundreds of open opportunities.
 
Companies in the shipping/delivery field are hiring, as are grocery stores and many healthcare facilities, including pharmacies. Information technology and technical support positions are also in high demand, as employees need more assistance with their computers and other devices when working from home.
 
Look for companies that are meeting pandemic-specific needs. These companies are now hiring for temporary, part-time, and short-term opportunities.
 
However, some industries are struggling. For example, hospitality companies — restaurants, airlines, resorts, hotels, and conference centers. Almost everything related to the entertainment industry has been affected. Colleges and universities are facing budget cuts as students defer returning to campus until the pandemic ends. Government organizations — often some of the steadiest employers — are also facing shortfalls affecting employment and hiring.
 
Even in companies that are hiring, there may still be uncertainty. The hiring timeline has grown longer in some cases. If the company is conducting multi-person interviews, it may take time to coordinate schedules so all the panelists are available at the same time. Some job openings may be put on hold temporarily as situations change in the business. You may even have a job offer rescinded if a company’s fortunes suddenly change.
 
If you’re suddenly unemployed, your next job may not be a full-time or permanent position. It may not be your dream job. But a short-term or temporary position may make it easier for you to weather the pandemic and be in a position to get a new role in the future. It’s often easier to get a job when you already have one. And some temporary and short-term roles may turn into permanent positions once the economy ramps back up again.
 
You may also find yourself going through a career change during the pandemic. Is there a way you can use your existing skills in a new industry in the short term? For example, if you were a Server in a restaurant, can you use your communication skills to work a remote customer service job? Or if you were an Event Coordinator for a hotel/conference center, could you use your project management capabilities to manage scheduling for a hospital?
 
If You’re Furloughed
The pandemic caused a number of companies to furlough employees. Many of these companies continue to pay employee benefits (such as health insurance) but the furlough allows workers to apply for unemployment.
 
If you’re still on furlough, develop a job search strategy in case your position is permanently eliminated. Start working now on updating your job search documents (résumé, cover letters, LinkedIn profile, etc.). so you can immediately start applying for positions if you find yourself without a job.
 
With the end of the enhanced unemployment benefits, if you are still furloughed, you may be considering short-term or part-time work. Research your state’s unemployment benefit requirements to determine how this work may affect your benefits.

​We’ve all heard that the best way to find a job is through networking. While this is true, some of us just don’t seem to have that social-butterfly gene.
 
Here are some simple ways to let the world know that you’re ready, willing, and able to help their company.

Create a profile on LinkedIn.
LinkedIn is like the professional’s version of Facebook. Use the tools to create a profile and contact others who you already know on there. You never know who is connected to your friends and colleagues!

Create a Meetup  profile.
Find Meetup gatherings in your area that pertain to your interests and objectives. You will meet amazing local people. When you sign up at a few Meetup groups, you will run into some of the same people at different gatherings. It's very easy to make new connections this way. Do this effectively and consistently a few weeks in a row. Watch opportunities knock at your door.

Set a Facebook profile.
Don’t use your personal profile if you already have one. Set up a profile specifically for your professional career. Post your resume and befriend everyone that looks like they might be able to help.

Get on Nextdoor.
Nextdoor is one of the fastest growing social platforms. You will be surprised at how many doors it can open. People seem to have welcomed and embraced Nextdoor into their daily lives faster than expected. Get active! Connect with your neighbors. People love to help.

Get a Twitter account.
Follow everyone in your field. Follow everyone you can in the geographic location you wish to work. Tweet away.

​Always carry business cards.
You never know when you’re going to meet someone that might have the ability to help in your job search.

Blog about your profession.
You’ll attract people in the same field and also demonstrate your expertise.

Follow blogs in the same industry.
Subscribe to the blog and leave comments. Ask if you can write some content for them. It’s another way to get your name and experience out in the public eye.

Let all your friends know.
You might think you don’t know that many people. But if you think about all the people your friends know as well, you’ll see the numbers climb rapidly. Tell everyone what you’re looking for; you might be surprised who can help.

Let everyone know.
Your neighbors, members of any clubs to which you belong, your mail carrier, the bus driver, and more could all be helpful. Don’t be bashful.

Have your elevator pitch ready.
You should be able to fire off your elevator pitch in 30 seconds who you are, what you do, and what problems you can solve.

Get a professional email address.
Super.surfer1970@xxxxxx.com doesn’t sound very professional. John.Smith@xxxxxx.com sounds better.

Finding a new job is about as much fun as getting a root canal. The best solution is to use as many tools at your disposal to find a job as quickly as possible.
 
There is someone out there looking for someone exactly like you; you just have to find them. Use the ideas above and be creative; these are just the tip of the iceberg. Good Luck!

​

Thank You Email Sample 1

​RE: [Job Title] – Offer Acceptance
 
Dear  [Recipient’s Name],
 
Thank you for extending this job offer to me. It is my pleasure to accept this offer and to join [company name]. Please consider this email as my formal acceptance of the offer for the position of [job title]. I am excited about this opportunity and look forward to implementing my expertise and adding value where necessary.
 
It is my understanding that my annual starting salary will be  [salary amount] with benefits offered after my first 90 days of employment, as discussed in our prior written communication.
 
I am eager to meet and join everyone else on [date]. In the meantime, please do not hesitate to contact me if I may be of any assistance. I may be reached at (555) 239-8083 or by email at youremail@email.com.
 
Thank you again for this opportunity.
Sincerely,
[Your name]

Thank You Email Sample 2

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​Subject: Job Offer Acceptance from your name and last name
 
Dear [Recipient’s Name],
 
This is to reaffirm my decision to join [company name] and to formally accept this job offer for the position of [job title]. I would also like to thank you for this opportunity.
 
Per your request, you will find enclosed my signed copy of the [contract, employee agreement, etc.] I have fully read the content and I confirm that my starting salary will be [salary amount] and my starting date will be on [date].
 
I am eager to start on [start date]. In the meantime, please do not hesitate to contact me if I may be of assistance. I look forward to joining the team.
 
Best regards,
 
[Your name]

Thank You Letter Sample

​[Date]
 

[Contact Name]
[Title]
[Company Name]
[Address]
[City, State  Zip]
 

Dear [Contact Name]:
 
Thank you for the opportunity to accept a position as [Job Title] with [Company Name]. I am happy to accept your offer, with an anticipated starting date of [date].
 
I am pleased to accept the starting salary of [$$], and the additional benefits of [list them specifically].
 
I will be at the [location name] on [start date] at [hour, time] and I am eager to begin my new role.
 
Please let me know if I may be of service in the meantime. I may be reached at [000] 000-0000 or via email at [email address].
 
Thank you again.
 
Sincerely,
 
 
Your name
Your email address
Your LinkedIn Profile Address
 
 
Enclosure: Resume

Imagine someone refusing to date you because you’re too kind and beautiful. Yet, when you’re job hunting, you may run into employers who tell you that you’re overqualified for the position.
 
How can you keep your impressive credentials and extensive experience from working against you? Follow these steps designed to help overqualified candidates land a job offer.

Hiring managers may toss your resume as soon as they see your executive titles or advanced degree. Be proactive about addressing common concerns, starting with your first contact.
 
These strategies will help you land an interview: 
​

• Research openings. Be selective about where you apply. Look for companies with a track record of hiring employees with future needs in mind. If possible, target companies and positions where you’re likely to find engaging work.​
  

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• Pick a reason. There are many reasons for considering a somewhat junior position. Maybe you’re relocating or perhaps you are leaving a declining industry. In any case, focus on your primary motivation and why it makes you a good match for your new employer.
  

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• Edit your resume. You can be authentic while choosing which areas of your background to highlight or downplay. Simplify your language and omit irrelevant certifications and awards.  Learn the simple strategies that will make your resume stand out.

• Suggest staying power. Many HR departments will wonder how long you’ll stick around before finding a more attractive opportunity. Assure them that they’re not wasting their resources. Spell out your desire for a position with long term possibilities.

• Compromise on compensation. Similarly, there may be concerns about salary negotiations and your requirements. Let them know that you’re flexible, even if that means taking a significant cut compared to your previous earnings.

• Consult your network. Do you have contacts who are familiar with the organization or prominent in the industry? Your network may be willing to give you valuable information and recommend you as a candidate worth hiring.​​

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Congratulations on getting this far in the process. Now, you can sell yourself to your potential employer, so they’ll see your capabilities as an asset rather than an obstacle.
 
Try these techniques: 
​

• Show enthusiasm. Being arrogant or demanding will make a poor impression. Let employers know that you’re excited about the possibility of working with them and eager to make a genuine contribution.

 

• Describe tasks. Be specific when you’re discussing your past responsibilities and how they correspond to your new role. Show employers that you understand their expectations and feel comfortable with them.

 

• Explore growth potential. Some companies may be open to upgrading a position for a candidate who can take on additional responsibilities. Listen to their needs so you can propose appropriate solutions. Maybe you can generate additional income or train and mentor other team members.

 

• Reassure rivals. What if your new boss has less experience than you or seems to view you as unwelcome competition? Tell stories that show you value learning from others and can take direction.

 

• Try it out. Many companies want a new hire to stay on the payroll so they can recoup their investment. However, there are also situations where a shorter time frame may be mutually beneficial. You might work on one project on a contract basis and see where the relationship goes from there.

 

• Stay positive. Job hunting is often filled with rejections, whether you’re overqualified or struggling to gain experience. Seek support from family, friends, and job boards. Take care of your mental and physical health. Remember that your efforts will pay off if you persevere.​

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Be prepared to dispel misperceptions and doubts when an employer says you’re overqualified. Find a company that will appreciate your potential and give you the opportunity to take on new challenges.