As of September 2009, due to the recession, over 15.1 million jobs have been lost since the start of the recession in December 2007 and the unemployment rate is currently at 9.8% nationally. Many debate whether the real unemployment rate is closer to 15% or more once you include the underemployed (reluctantly working part-time because of limited position) and those who are not being counted any longer because their unemployment insurance has ended.

Whether you continue to be employed or have become a part of the heart wrenching statistics by downsizing or rightsizing, you need to continue to “own your career”. What does it mean to “own your career”? It means you are ultimately the person who is responsible for making things happen when it comes to your career and you have to expect the unexpected and plan for it. There may be limited positions in your area, but there are things you should constantly being doing whether you are gainfully employed or looking. Consider the following: » Read more: Owning Your Career