[Estella]

The last time I looked for work was about eight years ago, and from what I understand, it's a whole different animal out there these days. A good friend of mine was laid off and she spent a good six months finding the right job. What she did was to view her search like a job. Think about the amount and quality of work you would put into an eight-hour day, and let that be your benchmark. So she'd set her alarm, get up, take a shower, and go to work - looking for work - which included networking through Linkedin, and getting in touch with everyone she had ever known who might have good contacts (which she admitted was awkward since she hadn't spoken with some of these people in years).

She said it also helped to have a designated area in your home from which to work - as opposed to a laptop on the sofa while watching CSI re-runs. Which is not to imply that that's what you're doing, but you know what I mean. It helps to stay focused.

The other thing, and I got this from our HR Director, is even if you're out of work - do something. Volunteer at a local animal shelter two days a week, or take a night class to update your skills - something like that. It will be something you can put on your resume to show you weren't spending your time on the sofa watching CSI re-runs.

Good luck to you - I know it's tough out there, but there are jobs and it can only get better ...