Where the Jobs Are In 2009

I find the holidays are a great time to network and reconnect with past colleagues and friends. So as you toast your eggnog, if you are interested in discussing where the jobs will be in 2009 (and obtaining one) here is some advice.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the top 10 growing industries from 2006-2016 include everything from: Management, Scientific and Technical Consulting, Hospitals, Colleges & Universities and Local Government. Despite the recent economic downturn, some of these will stay resilient especially with help from President-elect Obama. His jobs creation plan thus far is focusing on healthcare, education and energy.

But how to do you apply your existing skills to these hot areas?
-Identify your strengths (and beware of blind spots). Make a list of skills that come naturally to you. And write out examples of where you’ve used those skills on the job successfully. Many strengths translate across industries, some include problem-solving, serving clients/customers and managing others.
-Understand key required skills in the new field. The Occupational Outlook Handbook is a free resource with information on hundreds of jobs. In-person research such as networking and job fairs are also great tools to understand the training and skills needed for a job.
-Don’t shoe horn yourself. Rather make the connection between your strengths and the new field in your cover letter and be sure to highlight those strengths on your resume as well. Demonstrate a real interest in your new field by subscribing to industry publications and read up! Your passion and enthusiasm will separate you from those just looking for a paycheck.

For more information, continue to tune into my weekly SIRIUS/XM radio show and tune in to my interview on CNN Newsroom with Kyra Phillips Tuesday December 23rd between 2 and 3pm eastern for more advice on making the move into a growing industry in your career in 2009!

From your experience, where do you think the jobs will be in 2009?