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I’m a pretty no-frills kind of person – a lifestyle I adopted and ultimately embraced once I was out of college and left to my own devices. I listen to financial radio shows for tips, I almost always buy store-brand/generic products, and a mantra around our house is, “That’ll be a fun movie to see if it hits the dollar show.”

Unfortunately, these elective practices that I have used for many years in an effort to save money have become required to save a fraction of what we used to. I can now buy 2 cartons of eggs for the same amount of money that used to get me three. And, the family favorite (store brand) cereal went up 40 cents per box overnight, so it’s back to the value carton of oatmeal so I can put that 40 cents toward the eggs. And so on through the grocery store aisles for the basics. And, I’m not happy about it. All of us are in a similar boat, so I know you can relate on some level.

I was reading Carmel Napolitano’s recent blog entry addressing salary expectations for nonprofit professionals seeking jobs which is a very relevant and important topic to consider, study and understand. Simply put, you must accurately assess your own situation and know not only your income needs but also understand what’s realistic in terms of potential salary prior to reaching the negotiation stage.

The money discussion led me to really sit and think about how money permeates every part of a job search. The big bang of money is in the form of an offer and is highly anticipated. But, the money factor starts way before that from travel to clothing to lodging. If you’re searching for a new job, or anticipating doing so, the reality of another financial burden is a little depressing since I’m not so sure the saying about it taking money to make money placates anyone right now.

So, what do we do to best navigate (if not survive) the current economic climate especially if we’re in the process of looking for a job? I did a very simple, very quick internet search to find out what popped up with regard to job-search expenses. While searching, I stumbled upon tips with regard to tax deductions related to a search.

Because everyone’s situation is unique, and because it is so important to get your own tax details accurate, I urge you to do some of your own investigating in terms of what is deductible for your search efforts and/or your work-related expenses. Find out not just what’s allowed, but also determine what is required to document your claim(s).

Sometimes we don’t realize what’s available to us, and sometimes we forget to ask for the details. Take some time to do this investigating to find out where and how you can save. Make the documentation along the way a standard part of your search process or work habit.

Besides utilizing deductions, I’m certain there are numerous money-saving tips you are using right now directly related to your job search or other job-related expenses. Head over to our Facebook page, and let everyone know how you are cutting costs and saving your pennies!

Nancy Stoker is a Senior Client Services Representative and Research Associate with ExecSearches.com. She can be reached at nancys@execsearches.com.

ExecSearches.com is a job board for nonprofit job seekers interested in fundraising, management and executive nonprofit jobs.

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Last updated on September 18th, 2012 at 04:57 pm

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