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Savvy Job Seeking Strategies

As layoffs are announced by the thousands, what's a job seeker to do? Times are certainly tough and sometimes a strong resume just isn't enough. Take a deep breath and ask yourself these ten timely questions:

1. Do you click your mouse daily?
Even though the number of jobseekers far exceeds the number of positions listed on the biggest sites, it's still worth your time to check new postings daily. Since recruiters search the major job boards for the most recently posted resumes, don't let yours fall to the bottom of the stack. Edit often so it always appears fresh.

2. Are you thinking outside the box?
Consider working your way into a great company by offering your services as an outside contractor, temp or volunteer. You can check out the environment, wow them with your skills and be on hand when fulltime opportunities arise. The trick is to score an interview with a department head who has the authority to arrange a non-standard work arrangement. Don't be afraid to ask for a unique situation that can be a true win-win.

3. Are you a big mouth?
Now's no time to be shy. As many as 85% of all jobs are never advertised-meaning you have to get out there to find them. Tell everyone you know (parents, grandparents, even dorky cousin Eugene) and everyone you meet (hairdresser, gym mate, neighbors) that you're job hunting. You never know who they know and you'd be surprised how many opportunities arise when you cast a wide net. Touch base with old contacts and colleagues saying hello and asking if they know of opportunities. Follow up ALL leads-even if a job is not available now it's important to establish contact with anyone who may be hiring in the future.

4. Are you up to your ears in industry-speak?
You ought to be. As intimidating as it may seem, industry networking is essential. Visit the websites of your industry's professional associations to learn about events, workshops or lectures. Sign up for listservs and e-newsletters. Attend Pink Slip Parties. Consider an adult education course or seminar on an important industry topic-not only will it keep you busy, but your next employer could be taking notes in the next chair.

5. Who can you dazzle this week?
Face to face meetings are still the best way to get a job. In a weak economy, everyone is quick to say "We're not hiring-goodbye!" so ask for an informational interview instead of asking for a job. It's a softer approach and gets great results. Buy your contact a mocha at Starbucks or agree to 20 minutes in their office. Most people are flattered to be seen as "experts" and are happy to help an enthusiastic woman. Have questions prepared and send thank you notes. Follow up like crazy with the leads you receive.

6. Do you read the paper every dayÖand twice on Sunday?
Remember Tess McGill in Working Girl? The Melanie Griffith character earned a big promotion by clipping New York Post articles. Keep your eye out for companies in the news to see who's doing well even in a downturn. Perk up your ears for management changes, quarterly results, new product launches and other major announcements. When good news arises, be the first in line to snag a position. While that broadsheet is in your hands, don't forget to check out the Help Wanteds, especially on Sundays. Even if it's getting thinner by the week, this section is still chock full of available positions.

7. Do you believe in the power of persistence?
We're not suggesting becoming a nag, but some degree of pushiness is essential with all of your personal and professional contacts. Jobs tend to go to candidates with the right credentials AND the luckiest timing. Create your own luck by staying top-of-mind with potential employers. Send a thank you note, dash off a quick email when you see an article that might be of interest and don't be shy about updating someone on any new developments in your search.

8. Do you think size matters?
Sometimes smaller companies-even start-ups-are doing well when the big corporations are experiencing lay-offs. America's 25 million small businesses employ more than 50 percent of the private work force and are the principal source of new jobs in the U.S. Not too shabby, eh? The trick is finding the opportunities; small businesses often don't advertise their openings, but prefer to hire through referrals and personal connections. So, network, network, network. Call the local Chamber of Commerce and local SBA office for information about small businesses in your community.

9. Can you fake it?
We know that being unemployed really stinks and the bills are piling up, but nothing's more important than keeping your cool. Employers can smell desperation a mile away, so keep your frustration under wraps. In bad times especially, they want super-motivated people who will contribute to a positive environment and work hard to turn things around. Keep smiling, even after sending out what seems like your zillionth resume. Easier said than done? Reward yourself for small accomplishments, keep on a regular schedule so you don't fall into a lazy funk and find a job-searching buddy to commiserate when the going gets rough. If all else fails, there's always chocolate.

10. Ready for your close-up?
No matter how bleak the economy, jobs are always available-especially for smart, motivated individuals. Lots of leading employers will be recruiting at upcoming job fairs in your area. For a list see www.AmericanJobFairs.com. Mark your calendar or punch it into your Palm.

Good luck!

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