Always remember, it isn't WHAT you know it's WHO you know. As time moves on, the economy will always have ups and downs. Nobody currently unemployed wants to hear this (can't blame you) but it was much worse in the 70s. But regardless of how the overall economy/job market is doing, you could still lose your job on any given day. Maybe the economy turns around, but your industry, company, or skill set is in a"recession." That's why it's absolutely critical to do what you can to network with people within your industry, local business groups, etc. I think most of us realize there's a large percentage of jobs that are never advertised. The goal should be to meet as many people as you can, so when you need to apply you have someone who at least knows you and can help you- rather than being one more resume out of 1,000. It's easier said than done, and hardly fool-proof. But the more you netowrk, the better your odds at landing something.