Dear Matt: I have been laid off and I think my unemployment benefits are about to run out. How can I find out how long my benefits last? I'm really starting to wonder how I'm going to make ends meet because I can't get a job. Do you have any advice on how to get a job - any job - that can help me stay on my feet until I find something?

Matt: According to information provided through the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, the duration of unemployment benefits will vary based on an individual's recent employment history. The maximum is six months if your eceive your full amount each week. There is currently a temporary federal extension of benefits, passed by Congress,which provides a maximum of three months of additional benefits. Go to the"What's New"area onMinnesota's Unemployment Insurance Program home page (www.uimn.org),to see a list of eligibility requirements and to watch for any changes or additions to the federal extension. As for getting a job, working with a staffing company is one option. You can work as a temp to generate income while you are looking for other work, says Jackie Engmark, executive director of the Minnesota Recruiting and Staffing Association (www.mnrsa.org). She recommends selecting a staffing company that specializes in your specific skill area (IT, healthcare, administrative, engineering, sales, industrial, management, etc.) or geographic area. Another plus is that many staffing firms now offer benefits. And if your skills need a bit of help, the staffing industry provides free training for many workers in various fields. Another plus?

"Once you begin working you put yourself in a position to explore other opportunities within the company - opportunities that might never be advertised for or posted to the public," says Engmark.

If you haven't been able to find a job, consider trying a new job search plan. Don't stick to what isn't working - look for something new. One resource would be to sign up for The Simple Job Search Manifesto (www.thesimplejobsearch.com), created by Twin Cities résumé guru Kevin Donlin. This program includes a free job search e-book and information, tactics and tools to help find a job you want. Also, ISEEK.org is an excellent source of skills assessment tools, education and training information.

While you are looking for a career, you might just need a job at this point. Don't be afraid to network with past employers and co-workers, friends, neighbors and members of any organizations you belong to let them know of your situation and that you are looking for work. This is no time to be bashful.

Matt Krumrie is a freelance writer from Inver Grove Heights, and has nine years of experience reporting on the employment industry. This column will answer readers' questions. E-mail questions or subject ideas to askmatt@startribune.com.