Help for the underemployed

The unemployment rate is at 7.2 percent—that’s a sixteen year high. And even some people who ARE working aren’t in a job that matches their skills. If you find yourself underemployed, here's what you can do to score a better job.

1) Get known

Job number one is to get your name out. You need to use your current job to showcase what can you do. If you have a specific interest or skill, think about starting a blog. Check out sites like wordpress.org or livejournal.com to get started.

2) Get out of the office

Raise your profile outside of your normal gig. Get out and speak to alumni groups, industry or trade groups. Take a leadership role in the organization. Volunteer with community organizations or church groups executing the role you want – if you’re an aspiring CFO, get on your church’s finance committee.

3) Think part time

You may just need a way to make the bills each month and that’s where part time work may come in. First, visit the Web sites of companies you’re interested in. Many companies have online applications. Make sure to have a good handle on your schedule since you may be asked what days and hours you are available to work. And if it’s a smaller company you’re interested in, review the help wanted ads in your local newspaper or pennysaver. A lot of smaller companies won’t be on the larger career Web sites.

For more of Gerri's Top Tips, watch CNN weekdays at 11:15 Eastern Time.