Business Tools Blog

NY Daily News reports that Americans worries over unemployment are rising.

A new CNN/Opinion Research poll released today found that 36 percent of respondents said unemployment is the most important economic issue facing the United States - an almost three-fold increase from a similar poll last April. In 2008, 13 percent had listed unemployment as the top issue facing the nation.

While 8.1% unemployment is down from the early 80’s,  Americans are worried that we haven’t seen the worst of it yet.

When faced with a layoff, you can look for another job or start your own business.

Even with high unemployment rates, jobs are still available.  My advice to friends who are in the market for a new job is that they need to be realistic.  It’s a buyers market.  Last year, we would get 6 resumes per job post.  This year we are getting 30 resumes per job post.  Hordes of recruiters are calling every day pitching their highly qualified candidates.  What that means for a job seeker, is that you may not be able to be as choosy as you were a year ago.  For senior management who find themselves in the ranks of the unemployed, you may have to consider an individual contributer role.

Sometimes, a life changing event like a lay-off is just what you need to move your life in a new direction.

For the tech savvy readers of businesstoolsblog.com, starting your own business is a good option.  Check out Franchise Advantage for lots of ideas for turnkey businesses.  (There are three computer franchise opportunities and two internet franchise opportunities currently listed on their site.)  When I think of franchises, I usually think of restaurants, but was surprised and the breadth of options available.

If it’s your first business, a franchise offers name recognition, training, managerial support, reduced cost structure from economies of scale, advertising and financing.  But franchising isn’t always the best choice. There are franchise fees, royalties, lack of control, and required purchases.