8 of 9

Write now Article Tools

It really depends on the situation you discover yourself in and how you've prepared for such an event, as my record for gaining work is nine hours. And I accomplished that record time in a unfamiliar city by following a simple set of rules, a system where each rule is equally important.

When I traveled the country this past time during 1997-2000, I did so without the benefit of having a large sum of cash on hand. And I was able to do this, as I had an advantage in the job search market. I was trained as a leather care tech, or what's more appropriately known as a shoe repair person. Now the term is really a misnomer, as the knowledge base of a shoe guy includes being able to service a wide variety of goods, from hand bags to leather jackets, but the repair of shoes and boots generates the largest source of revenue for that type business. So, a shoe repairman I am. And what's the advantage of this strange occupation? There's not too many of us, especially quality-minded individuals. So the first rule of gaining a job really fast is to have employment skills that are unique to the job market.

And for those that might wonder, what kind of salary does a shoe guy earn? Starting rate, regardless of one's educational background, can range from $20,000 to $30,000 a year, depending on your current geographical location and experience. Not a wonderful salary, but the second rule is to know what your skills are worth (ownership pays considerably more).

The third rule is to be versatile. In other words, if your primary employment search doesn't yield a position, make sure you're versed in other skills, or willing to learn new ones. For instance, when I visited Memphis the leather care market was less than favorable. But I learned the local hostel I was staying at had need of someone with a home improvement background. After proving myself adept at handling a paint brush and a hammer for a month, I secured the resident manager's position of the hostel owner's rooming house.

Always keep in mind that your four year degree isn't going to provide ample opportunity at a moment's notice either. So, the fourth rule is to have long-term goals and short-term goals. That dishwashing job will look really inviting if the rent's due, but it's not something anyone would consider as a career change. Or you may, as I did when I was in Omaha, choose that type of employment due to the environment, a place you truly feel comfortable at. Which is ideal as you search for the job you were trained

• 1
• 2
• next page >>

Add your voice

Know something about How to get a job. Fast?
We want to hear your view. Write now!