With the Department of Labor reporting that nonfarm payrolls fell by 533,000 in November, 320,000 in October, and 403,000 in September, it is clear that employment in the U.S. for some sectors is tenuous. But as the jobless rate keeps inching ever higher, there are employment resources available for people who have been pink slipped.
To help job seekers improve their odds of success in this highly competitive employment market, Challenger, Gray & Christmas Inc., an outplacement firm that tracks employment trends, plans to take phone calls from people seeking job-search advice on Dec. 29 and Dec. 30.
Challenger’s call-in will run from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. CST. The telephone number is 312-332-5790. This is the 23rd year Challenger is holding its national job search.
“This is a once-a-year opportunity for anyone to take advantage of our counselors’ expertise. Our services typically are available only to those who lose their jobs and are sent to us by the former employer,†said John A. Challenger, chief executive officer of the company. “With the current state of the economy and mounting job losses, we expect phone lines to be busy this year.â€
The U.S. Department of Labor also has a toll-free help line that offers a full range of basic information about workforce program services for workers and employers. Information is available in over 140 languages. Call 1-877-US2-JOBS, TTY: 1-877-889-5627.
The employment slump started with the deflation of the housing bubble and then spread to the financial market. It is now touching all parts of the domestic and international economies.
Finding a Job in an Economic Downturn
— Advertise your job loss.
— Meet with new people as often as possible.
— Contact the hiring authority, not human resources.
— Don’t take a holiday from interviewing.