There has been a serious job crisis in the United States for the last few years, and it is no longer unusual to spend several months to even several years unemployed. Unemployment is a fairly perilous state, and if you have been unemployed for a while, you may be feeling a little bit despairing. How can you make sure that you get the job that you want?

1. Define Your Parameters

What jobs are you willing to take, and when are you willing to take them? The problem is that there are many people who are underemployed, and there is nothing worse than getting a job only to find that it won’t keep you. If you are unemployed, it is often very tempting to take the first job that comes along.

2. Organize

Sit down and write out the main parameters of what you need. What is the minimum salary that you need to work at a place, and what are the minimum and maximum hours that you are allowed to work? Knowing this can help you land a job very quickly.

3. Nepotism

Some people are reluctant to take jobs that are offered by the people that they know, but this is not something that should affect your decision. If the boss at the new place is willing to take a personal recommendation from a friend or family member of yours, you’ll find that this does good things for both you and your friend if you do a good job.

4. Network

Put the word out that you are looking for a job, and if a friend or family member comes back with an offer, take them up on it. Word of mouth is a great way to let people know that you are looking for work, but don’t forget to cast your net wider with things like Facebook and Twitter as well.

5. Freelancing

Freelancing is not for everyone. Not only is the job security shaky, you’ll also find that you have to do your own maintenance and your own taxes. However, as so many people say, working at something during a recession is far better than working at nothing. Consider which of your skills you can sell to other people. You never know when freelancing will result in a new job.

6. Be Consistent

It is so easy to get discouraged when you are looking for work. It is very easy to simply look for the first few weeks and then to quit. Every day, do something that will help you find a job, whether it simply involves checking the want ads, networking or walking the pavement.

This post was written by Mike on behalf of Noomii.com. If you’re looking for a career coach San Francisco, Noomii.com can help. You can find them on Google +.