In 2009 How do we find Employment

Unfortunately, people do what they are told. And what they do to search for a job is dictated by the same personnel jockeys and HR people who dump millions into the job boards rather than do their jobs themselves. Just as personnel jockeys don't really recruit, job hunters don't really job hunt. Everyone dumps crap into the Big Jobs Data Base, waiting like some dope at the roulette wheel for their number to come up. Is it any wonder companies cry, "Talent Shortage!" and job hunters cry, "Job Shortage!"? People who are really good at their work and who have a smidgen of social sense know their next job will come from a personal contact. Studies consistently show that 60% or more of jobs are found and filled through personal contacts. Job boards handle only about 2%. Ironically, the smaller, more local job boards deliver more matches -- maybe because they are closer to their communities and have a real relationship with them.
Smart people devote time every day to cultivating their reputations and relationships in their professional communities. Good managers find new hires through people they trust. That will never change, but few people will ever get it. My message to really talented people who are active in their professional communities: Don't worry about competition. You have none. To those sitting around waiting for job boards to deliver jobs, and for companies to come to them, 2008 is going to be a very tough year. As the economy suffers pain, companies will be able to afford to hire only those people who can show they will contribute to the bottom line. If you can't do that, you're toast. Sorry.