Begin by encouraging them to complete their formal education, if possible, before beginning a "serious" job. Otherwise, they put themselves at risk. Washington, D.C.'s nonprofit Employment Policy Foundation (EPF) reports, "From September 2000 through October 2001, more than 1.2 million new jobs went to applicants with post-secondary training . . . (while the more than 1.9 million lost were) concentrated among workers with no post-secondary education."

Explain that they're on their own. Rob Sullivan, author of "Getting Your Foot in the Door," states unequivocally that job-hunting assistance pales in higher education by comparison with their vocational school counterparts, which tend to be practiced in developing and maintaining "close relationships with potential employers . . ." (Contemporary Books, $12.95). They must rely upon themselves. Any outside assistance whatsoever should be considered gravy. Next, put them a step ahead of the employment industry, which repeatedly under-emphasizes the fact that job-hunting is about marketing. Knowing what kind of work to pursue and developing a good resume are critical. However, not being able to market the potential they represent can be devastating.

EMERGING TREND

Young job seekers must grasp the new frame of reference emerging in the market. "In the self-reliant world of employability and entrepreneurism, graduates and others need to focus on themselves as a Business Proposition," states Simon Hamm, director of Career Management at the European Business School, London. Tell them.

An advocate of market awareness and self-awareness, Hamm reflects the intent of "Getting Your Foot in the Door," which focuses upon developing a personal marketing plan. This plan encompasses "a thorough analysis of the product, the consumer or target audience, the industry or category and the competition . . . (where) you are the product; the potential employer is the consumer; your cover letter and resume are interest-generating print ads; and your interview is the sales call in which both parties assess whether the product (you) fits the customer's needs."

The book guides readers into developing a personal business plan, one which fleshes out Hamm's Business Proposition concept and prepares people to interview. Hamm says that young people need to do so "without arrogance, not as a supplicant, but a negotiator or deal-maker looking for suppliers or customers."

While the personal development plan process is time-consuming, it pays off in strategy and focus, rewarded by less time (and frustration) on the market. "In the final analysis, marketing yourself is as much a mindset as it is a process," Sullivan points out.

UNEARTHING JOBS

Today's Web shines with information and resources, drawing the digital generation (and others) immediately. However, it focuses almost exclusively on existing jobs, which are, indeed, part of the mix. But the larger -- but not exclusive -- market is found through people. Building relationships is paramount to finding jobs. Young people in particular need to know this, because many are reluctant to approach family and friends for help of any kind.

"Getting a Foot in the Door" mentions that most people don't know how to explain what they want to do or "construct a convincing argument for why they would be good at whatever career they have chosen." Developing the plan and meeting people increases the ability to become both articulate and persuasive.

Raj Goel, CTO of Brainlink International, a technology services firm in New York City, suggests, "Young job hunters have to look at their job hunt as the defining thing going on in their life. Encourage them in social situations to mention their search when friends and acquaintances inquire how they are or what they're up to. This isn't an excuse to ask directly for job leads, but if they know of anything available that seems suitable, they'll be likely to bring it up."

Goel adds that, in part, this means creating "an elevator pitch -- a 15-second sound bite with a clear statement of what the person can and wants to do."

Give this advice to young people and apply it to your own search. It's timeless.