Budget tips to trim job-search costs

I was getting my hair cut the other day — at Cost Cutters, of course — when I mentioned that I was hoping to look polished for a presentation I was giving. When the stylist learned that my talk was on job search, she exclaimed, “Oh that’s such an important topic — we get so many people in here who are unemployed.”

My haircutting conversations got me thinking about other ways the economy is affecting job seekers and the choices they are making. I thought I’d pass on some tips to help launch a job search on a budget.

AMY LINDGREN

WORKING STRATEGIES

Ways to save money

» Schedule coffee meetings instead of lunches when you’re networking. When possible, meet at your contact’s office; you’ll both save money and it will be convenient for the person meeting you.

» For short meetings, park on a meter instead of in a ramp. Best yet, look for free parking farther away and take a bus or walk to your meeting.

» Don’t buy new clothes for the job hunt. You’ll look great in a second-hand outfit, provided you shop carefully for fit and quality.

» Keep shining those shoes. And re-soling them. With care, you can make a pair of quality shoes last for years.

» Share Internet services with a neighbor. There may be a downside here, such as lowered speed or reliability, but splitting expenses might make up for it.

Best bargains

» Have you been to your state workforce center lately? The quality of services and the training of the staff have improved astronomically in the past 10 years or so. You’ll find computer workstations, informative handouts and helpful workshops, all for free.

» Another great place for job seekers is the public library. In addition to computer stations and wireless, you have access to directories, job search guides, DVDs and videos with interview tips, and incredibly skilled reference librarians. Much better than staying home.

You shouldn’t scrimp on …

» Your résumé. You knew I’d say that, didn’t you? But it’s true. If you’re not happy with your résumé, don’t have your cousin Joe look it over — bring it to a professional. Expect to pay between $200 and $800 for a solid product. Here’s a tip: If you pay less than $200, you’re getting what you’re paying for; if you pay more than $1,000, you’re almost certainly not.

» Haircuts. You don’t have to go to the best stylist in town, but you do need a stylist. Cost Cutters will be fine; a pair of barber scissors and a bib? Not so much. Remember that there are two major benefits to having your hair cut well: You look good, and you feel good.

- Amy Lindgren owns Prototype Career Service, a career consulting firm in St. Paul, Minn. She can be reached at alindgren@prototypecaree rservice.com or at 1071 W. Seventh St., St. Paul, MN 55102.