Waiting to exhale

Employers, candidates in nonprofit sector are holding their breath

A few years ago the job market was pretty good for communicators in nonprofits. Lots of organizations were hiring, and candidates often found themselves with multiple job offers.

But that’s not the case anymore.

If you’re finding yourself gasping for air — either stuck in a job you don’t like or unemployed, with few prospects — you’re not alone. Although there are jobs to be had, a lot of organizations are waiting to see which way the wind will blow.

But if you possess solid writing skills, as well as a knowledge of new media, your credentials may help you float through the recession. And if you’re willing to consider academia or work overseas, your chances are even better.

The breeze has died down

Ned Lundquist, founder and publisher of Ned’s Job of the Week, says his newsletter’s job listings have definitely decreased recently.

Lundquist, who has been publishing his job-search newsletter since 2001, says submissions have slowed down. Although the supply hasn’t dried up altogether, there are recruiters and HR reps he hasn’t heard from for some time.

Not surprisingly, Lundquist has a fairly bleak employment outlook for the year.