Job Search Tips

The following are tips forwarded by Ed Ferguson. He receives a newsletter, titled The CONDOR Report, from Connie Dorigan, the "Tech Talent Finder." Here is her company's web site: Dorigan.com

FIVE TOP SECRETS USED BY RECRUITERS
Good recruiters know exactly what it takes to find and land a new position for one of their top candidates. Action is critical...the Right Actions are essential.
1. Include Accomplishments on Your Resume
Most resumes resemble a Job Description rather than describing what you personally brought to your employer. You need to list accomplishments and the impact they had on your company. (Especially valuable are things you did that saved your employer money or time.)
2. Send Your Resume to the Individual Who Would Be Your Boss, or one level above your Prospective Employer.
It is the job of the Human Resource Department to screen OUT resumes. You dramatically increase your chances of booking an interview if you get your resume directly to the person who would potentially be your boss.
3. Handwrite Your Envelopes
Add: Personal & Confidential Most administrative assistants open the email for their employers. If they see a resume, they will forward it to the Human Resource Department. They will NOT open anything marked Personal & Confidential. This assures your resume will get in the hands of the person you have targeted.
4. Put Momentum behind your Search
You have to get your credentials in front of decision makers on a daily basis. If you are not working, you need to dedicate 40 hours a week to your job search. If you are currently employed, but looking for a new opportunity, you should dedicate at least 10 hours a week to your search.
5. Prepare your Questions in Advance
The questions you ask can help you uncover the priorities of the person who is conducting the interview, as well as the primary challenges of this position. Once you determine those priorities, give them sound examples of how your qualification can help solve their greatest challenges. Probing questions can help you ace out your competition.
BONUS TIP: If you interviewed for a position and did not receive an offer, contact that employer every three months for the following year. Often the person they hired did not work out, or other positions become available and your level of interest will often result in them contacting you for an additional interview!