We know your goal is to find a job, preferably a green job.

Our goal is to bring you resources, tools, and information to shorten your path to a green job. We created this plan specifically for people like you who need to find a job NOW!

As you conduct your job search, you may discover that your target green industry isn't mature enough to hire you or that you don't have the right set of skills to jump straight into a green job. Don't despair. The green economy is just beginning; it will continue to grow, evolve, and unfold over the coming years. You have time to make your transition into the green economy.

For now, your best strategy is to find a job that leverages your current skills and experience, whether it is green or not. In all my years of helping people switch the focus of their career, I've discovered that it is nearly impossible for people to think expansively about their options when they are strapped for cash.

If you are in this situation, keep your focus on finding a source of income to relieve the stress you feel. Think of your next position as an interim job that gets you back on your feet. Whether it's full-time job, part-time gig, or a contract position, it will give you some breathing room financially and emotionally. 

As soon as you land a job, you can then begin a deeper exploration of the green economy and how you might use your skills, interests, experience, and education to create your green niche in this new world. Then you'll have time to devote to your exploration, your networking efforts, and your green education. (If you want to learn why it sometimes takes longer to find a green job, read the text at the bottom of this page.)

For now, focus on the steps listed under the For Job Seekers heading. We've pulled together the resources we believe will be most helpful to you right now. Take it step by step.

All the best to you,

Carol

Why Finding a Green Job May Take More Time than You Have Right Now

Generally speaking, the time it takes to find a green job is longer than a job in the traditional economy. There are a number of reasons for this.

• The green economy is just taking shape. We are just putting the cornerstones down to define the green economy with recent announcements of regulations, funding, and policies. As a result, a number of the green industries are just beginning to move out of their research and development phase and into their production and distribution phase.
  
• Industries are just beginning to develop. We are gaining more clarity about the job titles they will need and the kinds of people they will hire. As each industry matures their hiring needs evolve. The job you are qualified to fill may not be what your target industry is looking for right now. Give it time.
  
• Your personal knowledge and experience may also impact your quest for your green career. You may need more training, more experience, or perhaps a certification or degree to make your way into the green economy.
• As with any job, green jobs are most often filled through word of mouth and personal referrals. As a result, it's critical to build your own green network. You may not have time, in your current circumstances, to build the kind of network you need right now.

Finding your green career is a journey. On Green Career Central we offer a step-by-step plan for people who want to switch to a green career. We help you find the clarity and focus you need to land your green job. When you are ready to explore your options, we are here to help you.

For now, focus on the matter at hand...finding a job that leverages your current skills.