Job hunting during a recession

Maybe you've lost your job, are afraid you'll lose your job, or are just looking for some extra income.

If so, you're probably doing some job hunting (aren't we all?) right now.

Here are a few tips that might help you out.

1. Lower your expectations.  During a recession, beggars can't be choosers. Don't expect to find a great-paying job with full benefits that you'll just adore. If that happens, good for you! But don't plan on it.

2. Put the word out. If you're job hunting, share it. You never know when a job might be found because you told someone you were looking, and they told someone, and they told someone and that someone called you.

3. Dont pass up one-time or short-term jobs. Just because a job will only last a short time, doesn't mean you shouldn't take it. Don't pass on it with the idea that something better will come along. Those small jobs (such as a mystery shop, a special project, a housecleaning gig, a delivery job, etc.) will pay the bills and get you through the hump.

4. Think outside the box. Sure, you may be experienced in a certain type of career, but what else can you do? Extra income can be made by doing deliveries, cleaning houses, babysitting (only if you like kids), working at the mall, etc. Look around - just because a job doesn't fall into your college degree or area of expertise doesn't mean you should ignore it.

5. Ask. Don't be afraid to ask a manager or owner if they're hiring. They might not have posted a sign or a classified yet, or they might just be thinking about hiring. What's the worst that could happen? They'll say no.