Despite the fact that economists have declared the recession to be over, the scars it has left behind are still quite clear. This is particularly true when it comes to the unemployment rate, which is expected to remain around the 10% mark or higher well into next year. In fact, the Congressional Budget Office has predicted that the unemployment rates will remain above average through 2014 and possibly longer.

Although businesses have taken huge steps toward reducing their costs, their sales are still low. As such, most are still unwilling to bring back employees or to hire new ones. Obviously, this means the economic recovery will be quite slow. Further, if you are like many people throughout the country, you might find yourself without a job for a while longer. With these tips, however, you will be able to get through this period as smoothly as possible.

Tip #1:Don’t Count on Returning to Your Old Job

If you are sitting around waiting for your previous employer to call you back, you are likely wasting your time. Although laid-off employees have often been called back by their employers during previous recessions, the reality is that times are changing. American jobs have been heading overseas for many years now and this isn’t about to change any time soon. In fact, thanks to the recession, many companies have been taking an even closer look at how they can save money by hiring overseas workers. Furthermore, many of the industries that experienced major job cuts are not likely to reach the same level of productivity any time soon.

Tip #2: Target Lesser-Known Firms

Traditionally, job seekers have put a great deal of effort into trying to land a job with big companies. After all, these companies typically had plenty of positions to be filled and were often able to offer more attractive salaries and benefits packages. Thanks to the recession, however, many of these big companies have significantly cut back on their employees. Many are also relying more heavily on outsourcing certain jobs, which means the job opportunities are more likely to be with the smaller companies that provide services to the big name corporations.

Tip #3: Don’t Turn Away from Contract Work

Since an increasing number of companies are deciding to turn to outsourcing to get certain jobs done, you should be more open to taking on contract work than you may have been in the past. First, taking on contract work will provide you with some money during a time when money is tight. Second, many companies are hiring employees on a contractual basis before hiring them as employees. Therefore, taking on contractual work may be just the step you need to take in order to land a new job.

Tip #4: Make Some Lifestyle Changes

Depending upon your financial situation, it might be necessary for you to make a few lifestyle changes as you weather your way through the jobless storm. Look for ways to cut down on expenses, including downsizing on your home and care if you need to. Even if you think you have the money to get by until the next job comes along, cutting back on expenses will help you increase your savings and you will be happy to have that extra money if another economic downfall hits. Furthermore, the less expenses you have, the more likely lenders will be to give you a loan when needed.

Tip #5: Consider Starting Your Own Business

If you have always dreamt of becoming your own boss, now just might be the time for you to start working toward making your dream a reality. Sure, starting a business can be a frightening experience, but it is a great way to use your time and it just might lead to a brighter future. Even if you are one of the lucky ones who still has a job, you might want to consider working on starting a side business as well. This way, you will have something to fall back on if things get rough at work.