I've got a job for you . . . it's right here in my pants. KIDDING!

Actually, I'm on the job market, too. I've been sending out resumes since July, but I've only been called for 2 interviews. The job market is tight, people are paying a lot less than they normally would because people know that they've got you in a bind. But I'm holding out until January before I really start to sweat it. I'm hoping for a new administration by then. Thank Goddess for having a savings account. But at this rate, there won't be much left if I don't get a job in a few months.

Alex,

You are a very bright guy so I shouldn't think you will have the problems a lot of people have. Go to the library, Borders or B&N and sit down with a book that makes sense to you, map out a strategy, and follow it each and every day. Keep records of what you have done. If you tell prospective employer in a broadcast or personal letter that you will contact them or call them, do it. Follow through is critical. When you have an interview, either by telephone or in person, listen as much (or more) than you talk, ask questions and go into the interview prepared and organized. Know about the company, organization, or institution and know what their strengths and weaknesses are just as they try to find out what your strengths and weaknesses are. Do not, I repeat, do not worry about the economy. Why do I say this? It's simple, your confidence shows and your enthusiasm create more empathy and goodwill than someone who is worried about the economy or selling themselves short. Never do that. Remember one thing as you plan and execute your search: you only need one job. You are young, your picture indicates you are nice looking, you write well and you are articulate and you reason exceptionally well.

I have been in the search business for many years so I have some expertise even though it's a bit rusty. My strength has always been preparing a candidate for an interview. I would be pleased to talk with you about this either in person (I am in Indianapolis) or over the telephone. We can continue the conversation via this post or via email. You need to network, network, network, BUT only with positive people who are willing to guide you towards your goals. Take all interviews that come close to the position you seek. This is as Serena pointed out not a candidate's market just as it is not a seller's market in real estate, but good companies always need good people and it's up to you to convince them that you are the one.

Most of this process starts with a resume. Make sure you have a good one. Make it readable, put it on quality stationery, if mailing or using a hard copy, make certain there are no typographical errors, highlight pertinent accomplishments, quantfy those accomplishments when you can (how much was saved in $$$ or %, how was paperwork eliminated and how much, what made your project work (it saved time, man-hours, money and how much of each). Unfortunately, most jobs demand that you somehow will economical benefit your employer (even goverment jobs - lol). There is a whole lot to the employment process and you do not want to become an expert at the process, rather you want to find a job. Keep your eye on the gold ring.

Hey Alex,

Best of luck in your search. These gize are a pretty good resource:

www.idealist.org

It is job search in the non-profit world.

The LGBT Community Center in Manhattan has a number of openings.

I'm on the job market, too. I left my good-paying activist gig in California and moved to Ohio, where I can't get a call-back for temp work. Luckily, I'm mostly marking time until I go to law school next year, but it's scary how hard it is to find a job right now. I'm looking at tutoring positions right now, but if something doesn't happen soon, I may be going back to that career in retail I left behind with my college graduation.

Alex, I love JK's highly organized approach, but I have to ask you if you think that "journalism or activism" are your best options? Are you looking for an ideal "purpose driven life," a paycheck, ultimate self employment, or a career that really excites you?

Activism sounds great, but (not knowing your age) what if we totally win when you are forty? Then what would you do?

Journalism sounds wonderful on one end, but we are in an era of shrinking media outlets across the board unless it is internet based.

Only you can answer which course is right for you because of the trade offs and few get all things. I should think your greatest happiness and fulfillment would come from a continuation of your blogging work while you find other areas of the internet to use and develop your mad skills. The really marketable stuff that may have nothing to do with activism and everything to do with creativity.

Unless you would miss teaching too much. :) They do need English teachers in Thailand, but the pay scale is low along with the living costs.

I've been looking for a permanent gig for 2 years now - the job market in my occupation has been shitty for years. The worsening economy has raised the real possibility that my current position won't be renewed, but thankfully I've got a good bit of time still left on my contract so maybe things will look better in a few months.

I think the best advice I've gotten is to not presume that my application materials were bad simply because I did not get an interview or offer. That said, my task this morning is revising my cover letter. Bleh.

I'd hire you if we made any money. :)

Thanks so much for your advice and help, everyone!