It is up to an individual to grab at the hidden opportunities available

By Meaghan Ziemba, Associate Editor PD&D

"There is hope out there. It is just up to an individual to grab at the hidden opportunities that are available."

It seems like everyday we are reminded enough about the falling economy: unemployment rates at their highest in 16 years; various companies closing their doors after 20 plus years; and financial institutions seeking loans from the government. If that isn’t enough, gas prices are fluctuating and groceries seem to be getting more expensive; and people are constantly saying “this is the worst time to find a job.” Enough already! Is there any good news among this economic depression?

Yes, I believe there is, and this is coming from an individual who has spent many a night sulking in rejection letters from various employers.

Straight out of college, many individuals have dreams of becoming employed instantly and making insane amounts of cash, but after a few months of endless searching they become angry at the lack of experience school failed to provide them. Especially considering the amount of money they’re probably still paying just to receive that knowledge. Rejection isn’t taken lightly, especially now with the current state of the economy.

More and more doors for employment opportunities seem to be closing than opening. And some seem to be opened only a crack for the chosen few. For me, my downfall: not having the experience of working in the field. Most employers were looking for at least three to four years, and all I had behind my belt was an internship with an Irish newsletter and courses that gave basic instructions for writing – oh and a four year degree that didn’t seem to make a difference.

I spent endless nights searching the web for job openings. I talked to my family, friends, neighbors, and sometimes complete strangers to try to get at least a toe in some kind of door. I searched newspapers, flyers, and even bathroom wall writings. I truly was getting desperate and I see that happening now with all the workers getting laid off from their jobs that they may have had for twenty-plus years.

Where do they go from here? With me, the occassional cocktail seemed to be the way to go for awhile, but I decided to just keep applying. I searched all the job sites on line and posted a hundred or so applications. I went to businesses – even if they didn’t have a “for hire” sign in the window – to see if I could get noticed or pointed into a different direction.

A door finally opened for me, and it feels extremely gratifying to have overcome all the obstacles and make it though the challenging search.. My point is, there is hope out there. It is just up to an individual to grab at the hidden opportunities that are available. 

What's your take? Email comments to meaghan.ziemba@advantagemedia.com