This recession is both long and deep. It is the first time in history that so many people in such a large number of countries have been affected at the same time. While it has upset the course of economics for most industries, few have been hit as hard as the recruitment market. If you think it is difficult getting a job today, imagine how tough it is finding a company to pay for recruitment services.

There are many arguments about the importance of outsourcing a company’s recruitment needs to a recruitment firm, but in a recession most employers/hiring managers only look at the cost of acquisition in isolation, versus the cost of recruiting the wrong person. So, for myself, who has survived (so far) this contracting employment market, I have been utilizing this ‘down time’ to upgrade my skills.

For all of you looking for a skill to upgrade, one of the most lucrative ones that will always be in demand is the ability to sell. Selling is an essential part of any company, or industry. IF (big if) you can sell, you will be hired, regardless of the economic situation.

Personally, I’ve been lucky enough to get support from my current employer. I am getting countless hours of training not only from experienced colleagues and managers, but from a sales coach/trainer that the company hired to teach me (and the entire sales team) the intricacies of the profession. His name is Ford Harding and he is the author of what some consider ‘the bible of professional services sales training’. The book is called Rain Making: Attract New Clients No Matter What Your Field and is a great resource to have on your desk.

Talk to your boss or manager and see if they can do something similar for you. If you are unable to get help from an employer or are low on cash check out salesresources.com. This site has excellent tools to help you get started including free training techniques, tips, articles, and videos.

Learning to sell within my industry niche has been my professional goal since this recession hit several months ago. So while you’re waiting for this market to turn around, think about making it yours as well.