While Christmas may seem a long way off, retailers are already gearing up for a busy holiday season. Beyond ordering inventory and keeping shelves stocked, a big way they prepare for the Christmas rush is to hire on holiday help. More than two in five unemployed Americans have been out of work for more than six months according to government statistics. With the unemployment rate currently at 9.1%, which equals about 14 million jobless Americans, the competition may be tougher than ever for temp employment. Read the rest of this story

I don’t have to tell you it’s a tough job market out there. Most Americans are well aware! Facing it can be daunting. I know, because like so many others nowadays, I was facing it myself about six months ago. My son had just turned a year old and I was ready to return to the work force after being a stay-at-home Mom. I did eventually find a job (you’re looking at it!), but it came about in an unconventional way – by working for free. Here's what happened for me, and how it can happen for you too. Read the rest of this story