Being an adjunct professor of Communication Studies at Green River Community College, I agree going back to school is mostly a good thing; however, as with everything else it depends.

If you are studying to get into a field you always wanted to be in, it's good to go back to school. If you simply want a job and are "settling" for a field that seems to be hiring at the time, I think it is not such a good idea. (Although, education credentials can open a lot of doors you didn't even know existed in any field.)

I believe too many people are panicking--or the media is making us believe people are panicking. Many employers are hiring, and business is strong in many fields as Randy has written about in this column.

The key is getting out the word you are looking. Stick with fields that interest you even if they don't appear to be hiring.

You may not get hired tomorrow; but, you can eventually. Every field still needs workers as situations change constantly in our times--another key is to be ready when the change comes or a job opening in that field presents itself. In all companies, people get sick, die, retire, move with spouse, get promoted, get demoted, etc. That's why they need HR departments or HR services. Also, don't overlook the small companies.

One other thing, I have a couple of comments on temp agencies too.

I agree temp agencies have their place in the job search; however, they would not be my first choice and here is why.

First, it is true many do not charge you a fee; however, they find the job and charge the employer 18 bucks per hour of your work and you get paid 10 bucks per hour(figures quoted from a Renton staffing firm). I am not against making a profit; however, you can do this work.

Second, nobody can sell yourself like you can, or have as high of an interest in selling yourself.

Three, you can make the same calls they do.

Four, once an opening is posted, you are pretty much out of luck because you are in the same pool as hundreds of other people. Make the cold calls and create your own luck.

Five, they send several of their clients to the same job.

Six, they are earning an income off of you even though they claim it is employer paid--see number one.

Seven, why spend time calling, researching, and interviewing with temp agencies? They are not going to hire you. Spend that time researching places you'd like to work instead and make your own calls. They don't have a secret magic bullet.

It is fair to say that contacts are the way to go; but what do you say and how do you find the contacts? And, how do you make cold calls and what do you say?

For an excellent job search seminar that will produce much more that you expect, sign up for our 2 hour seminar on June 3rd at the Best Western Emerald Suite Hotel in Federal Way, WA. Details are on our website at www.MattsonCommunication.com

Why would you use a temp agency when you are off work, have time, and can do the same things they do.

Now if you are working or want to try different things and/or are too nervous to make the calls to employers and contacts yourself, then by all means use use a temp agency.

However, if you want to learn how to manage the nervousness and be able to organize yourself and make those calls, we can help you. I wrote a book on managing communication anxiety.

Take charge today and be responsible for your own job search; employers are out there looking for you. It is best for you to find them. Let's do some serious job hunting and make our own luck. We want to be prepared when an opportunity comes our way.

Rod Mattson
www.MattsonCommunication.com

Good advice especially for those who are over 50.
Throughout history there have been challenges to overcome.
This is an economic revolution of values.
Revolution is predictable when power is unbalanced and greed is profusely evident.
Some like myself have been unable to find a position in their field for a long time. It is very scary. At first you are ok and think next week, then next month. And then more months go by.
We all became very used to easy luxury.
Many had the big homes but spent all their time at work. So their pets really had the big homes and the owners had a cube.
Rethinking our needs and happiness are vital.
Too much time on the computer and no time actually talking to someone in person is not only physically damaging to your body but to your soul as well.
Our purpose in life should be improved human communication and peaceful resolution on issues. A computer misses all the physical aspects of understanding one of the most important aspects of human life.
I know I will be employed. I know I will survive. It may be different but I will count my blessings every day.
Keep up the good work.

Healthcare is a very stable industry to enter, especially during a recession. I suggest medical assistant programs because the starting salary is high.

Healthcare is a very stable industry to enter, especially during a recession. I suggest medical assistant programs because the starting salary is high. Look at http://www.scitexas.edu/medical-assistant-programs.aspx