Underemployment: Are You Underemployed?

Unemployment isn't the only job market issue that's been in the news lately. In addition, to the 11.1 million American workers who are unemployed, there are millions more people who are considered underemployed. That includes people working part-time who would prefer full-time employment, people working at lower-level jobs than they are qualified for or earning less than the should be, due to the lack of available jobs.

What can you do if you're underemployed? First of all, if you have a part-time job and are seeking full-time employment, use the hours when you're not at work on your job search. Continue to outreach to contacts, apply for jobs, and work at your job search. Be sure that you're covering all the job searching basics and applying for all available opportunities.

When you're not working at the level of job you're qualified for, also continue to job search and to connect with contacts who can help you bolster your career. Given the job market, hiring managers will understand if your resume doesn't reflect your qualifications. Remember, too, that you can network online after work, evenings, and weekends, if you're in a job where you don't have much flexibility.

Regardless of the circumstances, what's most important, if you're underemployed, is not to give up. Keep plugging away at your job search, so you're ready when the job market picks up and a better opportunity comes along.

More: Unemployment | Underemployment