A 2010 UIS Alumna recently asked, "Due to the current economic conditions, I have been unemployed for more than a year; I previously held an executive-management position with a major bank. In regards to competing in is tough job market, coupled with the fact that I have been unemployed for so long, how can I re-enter the job market as a viable candidate with those strikes against me?"

My response:

       The is no perfect strategy, but here are a few suggestions:

• Have a clear brand/marketing message succinctly describing what you can offer a prospective employer.
• Network with business leaders and discuss their challenges and how you could help them on a permanent or project basis.
• Project work and volunteering would help you refresh skills and improve employability. Both can turn into referrals or job offers.
• Because of what has been happening in banking, make sure your marketing message and job search materials are positioned to allow prospective employers to picture you either in other areas of banking or outside banking.
• In all conversations talk about solutions you can provide using what you’ve accomplishment previously as evidence. At the executive level you need to present a vision and a plan for the position.
• You can review similar information on networking and developing a career marketing plan in our Virtual Career Center, www.uiaa.org/careers/careermgmt.html.
• If you need assistance with any of these areas, you can schedule an advising appointment with us, www.uiaa.org/careers/packages_deluxe.html.

What other suggestions would you offer this alumna and others with similar questions. Please share your comments by clicking on the comments link below.