Freelancing:  Career Bridge or Career Choice

So the experts say the recession has now technically ended.  That's great news, except to the folks that lost jobs to the recession or were not able to find jobs after graduation because of it; many of you are still feeling the recession in your lives no matter what economists say.

The media outlets provide advice left and right for ways to help those struggling to find work stay afloat financially until jobs become more plentiful.  One topic that seems to be the right fit for this middle ground we are in between recession and the early stages of economic growth is for job seekers to consider the benefits of freelance work.  It may be a short-term fix to get you by, but it could also lead to a permanent career choice if you find the right niche for your skills.

Non-profit organizations frequently turn to contract labor for project-oriented or short-term work needs because of tight budgets, hiring out for tasks such as grant writing, accounting, event planning, database administration.  And in the early months after the recession has technically ended, many small to mid-sized companies may not feel confident enough to bring on new staff, giving greater consideration to contract staff until business proves a bit steadier.  This may be the ideal time to inventory your strengths and figure out a way to market them as a freelancer.  Freelance work could lead to a full-time job with a client or, who knows, you might like it so much that you stick with it.

CNN published a comprehensive "Going Solo" series that may have some useful tips for you.  Click here to check it out. 

Upcoming Events

• 9/19, Starting & Financing a Small Business class at ULM 
• 9/21, Intro Workshop for Animation & Visual Effects Program at LSUS
• 9/24, Louisiana Tech Career Day for La Tech students and alumni 
• 9/25, Last day to register for Certified Manufacturing Specialist Program at BPCC
• 9/29, Workshop for technology innovators on how to apply for federal funding
• 9/30, Young Professionals Progressive Dinner  
• 10/7, LSUS Career Fair for students and alumni 
• 10/7, Job Fair for persons with disabilities
• 10/8, Customer Service Seminar at the Minden-South Webster Chamber of Commerce

Click here to see our complete detailed calendar of upcoming career, networking and community events!

What kinds of skills are regional employers looking for?  Do you meet their ideal candidate profile?  Check out NEON's Employer Profiles to find the answers to these questions. 

To learn about specific talent needs of regional employers, visit NEON's Hiring News.

Training News

There are ample opportunities locally for you to add to your skills portfolio, making you more marketable to employers.  Below are some of the latest offerings at regional colleges and universities:

• September professional development courses from Growing By Design and La Tech
• Animation & Visual Effects Program Intro Workshop
• Register by 9/25 for Certified Manufacturing Specialist Program at BPCC
• If you are a veteran, learn how to prepare your business to win federal, state and local government contracts at "Veterans Mean Business" conference

New Employer Profiles

If you are currently seeking a job in North Louisiana or will soon begin the process, it helps to know your market.  Below are the latest regional companies profiled on the NEON website.  Click here to see the full list of profiled employers.

Did You know?

• US News & World Report ranked the greater Shreveport area as one of the Top 10 Best Places in America to Find a Job.  To read more click here.
• Southern University at Shreveport just opened their new business incubator that can house up to 8 small businesses.  Click here to find out the full range of services they provide entrepreneurs.