Indeed, the entry level nightmare of the experience conundrum. People with experience will always be at an advantage, and when opportunities are slim there won't be much left over for those at the bottom of the pecking order.

This happens even in good times though and to varying levels in different industries. I looked into getting into the entertainment business in LA a couple of years ago. I was told by numerous people that most of their applicants were just further along in life and had more experience... that qualified them to get an assistant job with long hours that you may only make $25k/year at if you're lucky.

I think that employers that opportunistically hire employees at cut rate prices are not doing themselves any favors though. They may have got a bargain in the short term, but it won't take long for employees to resent their pay when they know they could be making more elsewhere. Now the company has to deal with the cost of unmotivated employee sabotage and re-hiring someone in the near future.

That said, to job seekers who fall at the lower end of the experience range, the scarcity mindset will not serve you well. The worst thing you can do is mope around hanging your head low about how you're seemingly getting beat to the punch everywhere by people with more experience.

I disagree. My mother isn't in the same job market or field that I'm in, but she always gives the best advice. Maybe my mom is special, I'm not sure, but I think the basics or a job search - relationship-building, touting your strengths, etc. will always be the same. Great post.

Further quote from Dad: "After running a successful business for over 40 years, I'd find it really hard not pointing out what they were doing wrong. They'd probably fire me for being so blunt, but I'd know I was right when they either adopted my suggestions, or went under."

It is a new job market. You simply don't get jobs the same way you used to. It's all about WHO you know. That's hard for a lot of older workers, because you used to at least have a chance of getting a job if you were qualified but didn't know anyone at the company. That simply isn't happening these days.

@Rebecca & Latosha
I don't doubt your parents give you great advice, you're both very dynamic women (and bloggers)- but it's not the same for everyone. And, like I've said before - you don't have to be in the same field, have the same job to give someone great (job) advice.
From my experience, the best advice was always the advice that didn't immediately resonate with me. It made me question what I was already doing. It confronted me with what I already knew - and challanged me. Sometimes your parents give you that - sometimes they don't.

@Dead Hedge
Creating publicity for a job is gamble.My question with Paul N was - where's your network? Why are you touting a sandwich board when there are other (more productive) ways to "publicize" your job search? And, Paul N's resume is pretty crappy - his time is better spent with a resume coach, not a sandwich board in Times Square

@Suzanne
You're right. People don't get jobs the way they used to it. I think the best example of someone slapping the job hunt in the face is Jamie Varon's creative approach to marketing herself for a job with Twitter. (www.twittershouldhireme.com)

@Jrandom 42
As usual, I am humbled - but I would hope your father is enjoying his retirement at 89, not working.

@Brian
The entry level/experience conundrum - that's interesting that you bring that up. I agree with your points about employers putting themselves at a disadvantage by hiring over qualifed/experienced employees - but it won't stop them. In those cases, they get what they deserve (short-term stints, turnover, etc.)