THERE'S more bad news for local job seekers this week as the country's unemployment rate hits a 10-year high.

The 6% unemployment figures have prompted many locals to ask why Warwick is suffering as badly as the rest of the nation.

Temp Solutions owner Nicole Kane says the town's mismatched skill base is partially to blame.

She said that while sourcing applicants for a position recently, she had found only two with the applicable MYOB skills.

"I heard of a position that received 160 applicants, so there is definitely a want for work in the town," she said

Mrs Kane suggests those looking for work polish up Xero, MYOB and QuickBooks skills to gain an edge in their interview.

"Word of mouth is your best friend in towns like this. Go to things and meet people. Let them know you're involved and are looking for work," she said.

Those with full resumes, despite being out of work, also have a greater potential for securing the position.

"If I see each month filled even though they are unemployed I know they haven't been sitting at home," she said.

"Your job isn't going to be perfect every day, but in towns like this, working for a small family business you are really making an impact.

"Why would you live anywhere else?" she said.

Samuel Harrison, the young face of Warwick job seekers sees another side.

He wants to join the labour force and eventually the Navy, but he finds he is often turned down because he is "lacking experience".

"People like me are always asked to work for free, but I need a guarantee of a job after a while," he said.

He just wants a chance.

"Employers need to be willing to teach," he said.

"I know I work harder if I am learning."

Job hunt Tips

• Have a professional working voice mail and email.
• Get social. Join a club or a committee to show your employment potential to a wider audience
• Face-to-face contact when applying for a job shows you put in the extra effort.
• Prepare a few thought-out questions to show your potential employer you're happy to learn.
• Look at sample resumes to compare and update.