Employment Statistics and Job Search Tips
Continuing with a look at the employment and job evolution with some statistics and advice …
The US Department of Labor provides volumes of statistical analysis and forecasting.
They have published and updated a 10-year forecast from 2006-2016; they note that employment opportunities are largely influenced by population trends (demographics) and by technology, automation, changes in business practices, customer demand, etc. A few key projections:
* Total employment increases (from 2006 to 2016) to 166.2 million (a 10 percent increase)
* The long-term shift from goods producing to service providing jobs is expected to continue
* Education and Health Services – the `super sector’ is projected to grow by 18.8%
* Goods-producing industries will see an employment decline of 3.3%
* Job openings stem from both employment growth and replacement needs which will account for 68% of the approximately 50 million job openings during this 10-year period
* Aging baby boomers – workers 55 and older are projected to leap from 16% to 22% of the workforce
Reviewing the USDL Occupational Outlook (you can easily find this on the web) will undoubtedly give you some specific information and ideas pertinent to your occupation/job field and your career/job plans.
Published Unemployment statistics:
End of August, 2009: US – 9.7 FL – 10.7
December 2012: US – 7.8 FL – 7.6
March 2013 US – 7.5 FL – 7.6
Looking at these frequently revised statistics (which are really estimates) differently – employment in the US is at 92.5%. So-called `full employment’ is viewed at ~95%.
Another key statistic is the `labor force participation rate’. It continues to be near historic lows at 63.4% (reported for May).
Do you need some ideas for your job search? Here are Twelve Go for the Job Tips to assist your job search. They are key points summarized in prior editions of GoingfortheJob as well as some wisdom from career experts and clients who have secured new positions.
1) Powerful P’s: preparation, positivity and persistence are indispensible; pursue your potential
2) Know yourself – your Success Profile is the key to describing, interviewing and marketing you
3) Where are the Jobs? networking is essential; use your references and expand your contacts
4) Cover Letters – this is your `introduction’; first Impressions in writing and in person are critical
5) Business Card – this is an introduction and networking tool; make it a positive impression
6) Heel & Toe – this is taking action and meeting people (too much PC time is not helpful)
7) Take Five Daily Actions – commit to plans; write them down, do them, and check them off
8) Follow-up – this is about persistence as well as a demonstration of interest and courtesy
9) Continue learning (sharpen the saw) – be informed, inquisitive and interested/interesting
10) Ask questions? – networking and interviewing are not interrogations; make them dialogues
11) Practice – use your mirror and work with your friends and family to make improvements
12) Be proactive – take responsibility; procrastination, the alternative does not work
You will get more information and advice about each of these, when you contact me.
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