The start of a new year is always a time of hope for those struggling financially. We start 2011 with positive reports from both the housing and job markets reflecting continued, but slow improvement in the economy. The American Bankers Association said recently, "The U.S. economy will grow this year as consumer and business spending strengthen along with job growth."

Job growth is key as millions of unemployed and under-employed struggle to make ends meet.

Many of our readers have been working to find new employment and, after several months, it is easy to become discouraged. With the new year it is smart to take a new approach to your job search campaign.  

Here are a few ideas that will help freshen up your job search in the new year:

-There are thousands of job search resources available, from books to Web sites, and experts suggest reading at least one new book or enrolling at one new job search Web site each month to get fresh ideas for improving your search.

-Take a new look at your resume and have others that you trust read it and give their opinion.

-Work at your job search for several hours each day like a job. Too many people spend a few minutes blasting out a few resumes and think they've done all they can do for the day.

-Resumes should consist primarily of high-impact accomplishments statements that sell the job-seeker's qualifications as the best candidate. Are you using the same resume to apply for different jobs? Try revising your resume slightly to fit each job you are applying for.

-Many people think quantity over quality is a good thing in a job search so they blast their resume to hundreds of jobs a week without regard to the specific needs of the companies they are sending to. It is much better to spend some time customizing your application to the position and the company after doing some research.

-Highlight your past skills and experiences that translate well to the company you are interested in working for.

-Pick up the telephone! In this internet driven world, too many are relying on email and online applications and forgetting about the importance of old-fashioned, one-on-one networking.  

Talking to former coworkers, clients, employers, friends, and relatives about your job search can often lead to news of positions opening before they are posted anywhere. It is also a good idea to call companies you are interested in working for and inquiring about potential job openings. They may not have a current job available in your field, but these calls can provide information and names of people who you can stay in contact with. Then, when they do have an opening that you might fit, they'll likely call you since you've taken the time to build a relationship with them.

Finally, avoid "pity parties" for yourself or others. Many people spend too much time feeling sorry for themselves or listening to others complain about how hard it is to find a job. There is an old saying, it's tough to soar like an eagle when you are surrounded by turkeys." Keep positive, network with positive people and you will find the strength to carry on. This is true for dealing with financial problems also.

There is no quick and easy system for finding a job. Those that are willing to take the extra steps necessary to improve their materials and search techniques will get a positive result. It's up to you!

Don't forget to write the year 2011 on your checks!!

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A new survey provides unique insight into the 2011 financial, employment and spending mindset of the more than 87 million Americans aged 18 to 34, identified as Gen Y / Millennials.

The Western Union Payments' Money Mindset Index reveals that 11% of Gen Y'ers do not have any financial strategy vs. 17% of all consumers, and:

Financial  

-31% of Gen Y plan to eliminate "major  debt" in 2011 vs. 34% of all consumers

-20% of Gen Y say they are entering "major debt" in 2011 vs. 18% of all consumers

-41% of Gen Y say they plan to "reduce spending and increase savings" in 2011 vs. 32 5 of all consumers

-25% of Gen Y say they are "unsure" if the recession is over vs. 19% of all consumers

-16% of Gen Y say they keep financial matters completely separate from partner vs. 14% of all consumers

-62% of Gen Y say they saved less in 2010 than in 2009 vs. 75% of all consumers

-2% of Gen Y say they are considering or have recently filed for bankruptcy vs. 4% of all consumers

Employment:

-34% of Gen Y'ers believe they will change jobs in 2011 vs. 26% of all consumers.

-50% of Gen Y say they will quit their job in favor of a new job vs. 40% of all consumers.

-23% of Gen Y say they may get laid off in 2011 vs. 25% of all consumers.

-43% of Gen Y say their earnings have decreased but 42% believe their earnings will increase in 2011 while 52% of all consumers say their earnings have decreased but 36% of all consumers believe their earnings will increase.

Spending:

-42% of Gen Y plan to spend additional money on dining out in 2011 vs. 37% of all consumers

-24% of Gen Y plan to spend more on clothing and shoes in 2011 vs. 14% of all consumers

-36% of Gen Y will spend more on travel in 2011 vs. 47% of all consumers

Twenty-six percent of consumers overall said they do not save at all. Where do you stand? 

Studies show that Credit and Debit card users spend 12% more during each shopping trip. Using cash will force you to plan your purchases in advance and avoid overspending once you are at the store. After a month of paying for everything with cash, you'll have established a habit that will be easier to stick with.