Being unemployed: what helps.

I'm starting a blog. Because I am a job-seeker, I've learned a lot about connecting with people I would have never in a million years come in contact with. Many people out there don't have the ideas and creativity that I do, and many workers are stuck, not willing to try new things.

As I move around the web, I find niche job boards for all kinds of industries. On this blog, my intention is to pass along website URL's for different job categories. I'll also review what the site has to offer, how easy it is to search jobs, what the returns are like, and whether you can set job alerts.

My second thought of the day is to arrange to meet other unemployed people for coffee. This is quite a bit like an informal interview, where you actually get to know a person while relaxing. Once you spend time with someone, they become more than just a name in your contact list. Sharing information is a good thing, and they will also be more willing to share contacts and keep an eye out for you, too. Do likewise, because it's about helping others. Once they land a new job, you have a good contact in that company and maybe, they can get your resume on to a hiring manager's desk. Don't think of this coffee meeting as just a social event. Let them get to know you, understand your needs and get to like you. This can eventually save you a lot of time in the Human Resources department if you come with a personal and character reference.