With jobs hard to find and unemployment reaching 10%, it is difficult for a job seeker to know what to do to find the next job. It can even be hard if you have a specialized skill set, such as many do that work in the addiction treatment profession.

Many employers advertise and recruit by word of mouth. It is important for job seekers to connect with other professionals. While money is tight, it is hard for many job seekers to go to professional conferences to network.

There are other options, like connecting with professionals on linked-in and face book. This can be time consuming and at times, difficult. Another option is a one-stop shop. The Addiction Professionals Network (APN) is that one-stop shop. This is where seasoned professionals can connect with students, where employers can connect with job seekers, and where addiction professionals in private practice (Interventionists, Recovery Coaches, and Therapists) can connect with treatment facilities.

APN is an important resource for addiction professionals. Professionals can share their concerns and hopes. Members of APN have their own page that they can customize by adding photos, resumes, current events, music, videos, bios, and website links. Members of APN can also join groups that they are interested in. Joining these groups allow them to talk to others that have similar interests or specialties. Members can also post blogs, jobs, and chat with other professionals. Treatment facilities and individuals in private practice can advertise or be added to a listing on APN for a reasonable cost. Members have opportunities to get continuing education units with some online or distance learning courses for a nominal cost. APN also announces workshops and conferences that the members might be interested in.

To find out more information or to join APN, go to www.addictionprofessionals.ning.com or contact rick@interventioncounselor.com.