Not even SpongeBob SquarePants is safe from the bad economy and the tough job market!
In an upcoming episode titled "SpongeBob, You're Fired," which airs on November 11, SpongeBob SquarePants will be fired from his job of 14 years at Krusty Krab Burger Shack. His boss Mr. Krabs finds he can save a whole nickel by cutting out SpongeBob SquarePants. The episode will feature SpongeBob SquarePants as he embarks on an adventure to find a new job. Nickelodeon president of content Russell Hicks offered a hint to SpongeBob SquarePants tough situation. Mr. Hicks said, "As always, despite this momentary setback, SpongeBob's eternal optimism prevails, which is always a great message for everyone".
While eternal optimism might work for SpongeBob Squarepants in Bikini Bottom, that is not going to swim for all the out of work land lovers right here in the real world. According to the September jobs report unemployment stands at 7.2 percent with over 148,000 jobs created in September. With the holiday season looming on the horizon here are some helpful tips for Spongebob SquarePants and all the rest of the job seekers out there.
1. Update your resume
Now is the time to dust off your old resume and make sure that it is current and as detailed as possibly. While it is always good to create a master resume it is also a good idea to customize your resume for the particular field you are applying for.
2. Real vs. Virtual
While applying for jobs online is a good first start, it is always recommended to go visit stores directly. Now is the time when many businesses hire people for the busy holiday season. Go visit stores and apply in person.
3. Using Social Media & Modern Technology
Social media is becoming a huge part of our lives. It can be used for searching for jobs. Sites such a Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin all have job boards. If you have a smartphone try downloading a new app called Apploi. This is a fascinating new tool for the online application. Many companies have job postings on Apploi.
4. Upgrade Your Skills
While losing your job is a terrible feeling, it can be a blessing in disguise. Take this opportunity to reevaluate your career goals. Look into the many educational opportunities out there to upgrade your skills.
5. Employment Resources
There are many government funded programs such as one-stop career centers -- like Ticket-To-Work Employment Networks (if you are receiving SSI/SSDI benefits from the U.S. Social Security Administration) and Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program sites (funded by the U.S. Department of Labor) -- out there that do a good job at helping you find employment.
Similar to Spongebob SquarePants losing your job is a momentary setback. With the holiday season right around the corner and many companies gearing up their hiring process, follow these five steps and you will swim your way back to a job that even SpongeBob SquarePants would be proud of.
Matthew Silverstein is the Director of Public Affairs for America Works of New York, Inc. America Works of New York, Inc. is a private employment company that helps hard to serve individuals get find jobs.