"I had just lost my job of 32 years. I was desperate and didn't know what to do, where to go, or what to focus on. Someone suggested that I read Paul's book and through his unique way of presenting the job search process, I was able to regain my composure, to remeasure my focus, and to reduce my sense of desperation. --Pastor, Eric Dawson ( )

This is an comprehensive career guide written for our unpredictable times. How to find a job when there are none sounds like an exercise in illusion, creating something out of nothing. Yet we all know that in today's "Hyper-competitive" job market, this kind of magic is a necessary skill, a skill that can be taught. Which is where the author of this book, Paul Rega, the president of a well-recognized executive search firm, comes in.

Right from the start, he establishes a tone of solidarity with you, by describing his personal career journey starting at the moment he was called into his boss's office, to face the shock of being laid off. Been there, done that, now look: here's how! Paul Rega presents a rational, methodical approach, offering a series of worksheets. First, a step-by-step intuitive personal assessment of your strengths and weaknesses, skills and talents, interests and values, career aspirations and goals. Next he highlights the role of education as the key to success, offers guidance as to building a network of personal and professional contacts, and shows you ways to target your job search.

I find this notion quite empowering: "As you begin your job search you must begin to realize and accept the fact that you will become a salesperson selling your most precious asset, yourself." with this notion in mind, you can begin sharpening your tools, readying yourself for a job market that is unpredictable. You can improve upon building a resume, writing cover and followup letters. You can practice your interview skills, negotiate salary and benefits. Above all, as the author says, never give up on yourself.

Five stars. ( )