Is it Really Just the Economy?

I don't think there is a job seeker around that hasn't felt the sting of the current economic crisis. Even though the economy is improving, employers are still reluctant to hire until they're sure these new increases are here to stay. Every day, I see students, alumni and community members that express frustration at how hard it is to find work right now and I agree. However, sometimes the big issue of the economy can blind job seekers to other problems in their job search.

• Know what kind of work you want to do
  I understand the temptation to just say 'anything' or 'anything full-time' or 'anything better than what I'm doing now'. But, look at it from the hiring employer's perspective. I've never had anyone say that they were willing to hire just anyone. Any employer I've spoken with in my work as a career counselor has always had a very clear idea of what kind of candidate they wanted to fill their open position. They've listed specific kinds of educational qualifications, skills and experience that they've been looking for. You too should have a clear idea of what kind of organization you'd like to work for and what kind of job duties you'd like to have.
  
• Get Your Paperwork Straight In this competitive market a generic Microsoft office template resume and impersonal 'To Whom it May Concern' cover letter may not be enough to help you stand out from everyone else that is applying for a certain position. Make sure you're customizing your resume and cover letter to each position you're applying for and that you highlight your transferrable skills and relevant experience.
  
• Do More Than Just Apply Online
  The internet is a great place to start your job search, but don't stop there. The fact is every other job seeker out there is using the internet as their primary means of job searching, one of the ways you can set yourself apart is to also get face-to-face. Join a networking group, attend a job fair, serve on the board of your favorite nonprofit or conduct some informational interviews. Anything that will help you expand your network and give your future employer the chance to know you as a person instead of just some facts on a resume.