If you have been out of work and looking for employment for a while, you’re likely frustrated by your inability to find a job. It is easy to become discouraged and you may feel that it is nearly impossible to find work, especially given today’s challenging economy.
The job market for accounting professionals has fared relatively well, however, when compared to the general job market. According to the November Labour Force Survey released by Statistics Canada, the unemployment rate for “business, finance and administrative occupations” is 4.3 per cent, compared to an 8.5 per cent general unemployment rate.  “Management occupations” have performed even better, with a 2.7 per cent unemployment rate reported for November. There are opportunities for accounting and finance professionals and with the right approach, you can significantly increase your chances of landing the position you seek. Here are six ways to fend off frustration and revitalize your job search:

Take stock of where you have been.  It is likely that you sent out an abundance of resumes when you first started your search and possibly received responses from a few companies. While there may not have been current opportunities at the time, businesses may find themselves in a different position and willing to entertain hiring once again. So, consider contacting those organizations to express your continued interest in working there and to find out if new openings exist.

Cast a wider net. Networking continues to be one of the best ways to find a job because a referral often holds a lot of weight with hiring managers. It you have been unsuccessful networking through your direct circle of family and friends, perhaps it is time to expand your list. Consider contacting former coworkers and managers, University alumni and members of professional associations you belong to. Also consider scheduling informational interviews at businesses you are interested in, so should an opportunity arise, you may be considered. Another option is creating a profile on professional networking sites such as LinkedIn or Twitter. You will be able to connect with like-minded professionals and by posting relevant articles or surveys, will present yourself as an expert within your field.

Undergo a personal professional audit. Sometimes it is important to take a step back and take a critical look at your job search from a broad perspective. Assess your areas of weakness and alter your approach. It is likely that some small changes will have a big impact on your success with employers.
For example, if you have interviewed at several companies, but have not been called back for subsequent meetings, it is possible that you may need to look at your interview skills. After all, your resume and cover letter draws interest from employers but are not translating into a job offer. So, instead of trying to fix something that may be in good working order (like your application materials), spend extra time honing your interview skills. Review questions you’ve been asked by hiring managers and have a friend critique your answers.

Keep your skills sharp. Having up-to-date and in-demand skills are essential to success for any professional, whether they be technical or non-technical competencies. Training, whether it’s an online course on a software program or an offline workshop on interpersonal skills, can improve your expertise while keeping you productively engaged during your job search. If a professional certification is holding you back from qualifying and applying for certain roles, consider investing the time and money to complete the requirements. Additional training will always give you a leg up in your job search and throughout your career.

Diversify your target companies. If you have only been contacting large corporations or companies within a certain sector, consider broadening your search to include various types of employers. As smaller companies generally don’t have the same brand recognition as some larger firms, competition for these jobs may be less intense. Also, remember to tailor your resume and cover letter to each job description in which you are applying.

Consider temporary or project-based employment. While you’re probably searching for a full-time job, it might be worth considering part-time or project-based work. These opportunities will help you build new skills, keep your current skills sharp and possibly introduce you to valuable contacts. Often temporary or contract roles may also lead to a full-time position. In addition, many staffing firms, such as Robert Half International, offer free professional development to help you keep your skills up-to-date.

Regardless of your job search technique, make sure you give extensive consideration to all employment opportunities that arise, even those that don’t seem promising at first. For example, a position that may not offer you the benefits package you had hoped for may present the ability to progress quickly within the organization. By giving the job a chance, you will advance your career more quickly. You never know what will lead you to your next job, but remaining motivated and marketable will help you find it sooner.

Dianne Hunnam-Jones is the president of the Toronto district of Robert Half International, the world’s first and largest specialized staffing firm. Robert Half International has more than 360 offices worldwide and offers online job search services at www.roberthalf.ca.