Since the market crashed in 2008 the economy (especially here in Ontario) has been difficult on some Canadians. Every year more people are looking for jobs and there is an increase of people getting laid off, which means a bad turn for unemployment for Ontarians. According to Stats Canada in October 2011 the number of full-time workers across Canada declined by 72,000. On a positive note we saw a 1.6% increase in full-time positions. These declines are based on industries such as manufacturing and construction. If you don’t have a particular preference in an industry, do some research and try to find industries that are sustainable. The more you are needed the better chances not only to get a job but for an increase in your salary. Be patient, do your research, talk to professionals and find out who is looking and what skills and qualifications they are looking for.

The job market in Ontario alone had a job loss of 39,000 back in October with a particular loss in full time positions. This created some gains in part-time positions. Over the past 12 months there was a 0.5% increase to 8.1%, in the past 12 months Ontario has grown by 1.5% which means there were 101,000 jobs created according to Stats Canada. There are definitely, according to these statistics some pros and cons to the economy, and these numbers seem to fluctuate constantly. As long as you are motivated and ambitious a job opportunity will come a lot faster then someone who is just waiting by their phone. Don’t let the news tell you there are no jobs, there are jobs out there, and it just depends on what industry and occupation. This is not the time to be picky, find a career path and stick with it, maybe you will like an industry you didn’t even consider giving a chance. What do you have to lose?

The job market has been tough for many of us. It seems that people think there are no jobs and lose motivation to continue job searching. I don’t believe this is true, there are jobs, maybe not as many before the market crashed, but don’t lose faith. My advice is keep researching, keep up with market trends, see where there is a need for work. Look into those particular industries, find out which companies fall within these industries, research them online and apply. Patience is a virtue; something will come along just keep at it.

Thank you to Sari Maritzer for contributing to this blog.