Five Tips for Job Hunting in a Tough Market

Every little bit helps

Most unemployed Americans right now face the toughest job market they have seen in their lifetimes. Unemployment keeps climbing, meaning companies are doing more firing than hiring.

If you are looking for a job, it’s important to use every possible tool in your arsenal to make sure you’re considered for a job. There is a dearth of competition out there right now. Here are some tips from ABC News.

1. Always call

People often justify following up on a resume because they don’t want to “bother” someone. Don’t be that person! Follow up on every resume. Find out the name of the HR manager or recruiter by using your Internet sleuthing skills. Look for the company on Facebook or LinkedIn. Google the name of the company plus “hr manager” or “recruiter.” Get a name, get a number, place a call and make sure they got your resume!

2. Be original and give details

Try to avoid cliches at all costs, and avoid saying things the interviewer has already heard many times. If you’ve been unemployed for a while, be prepared to talk about what you’ve been doing since your last job. Resist the temptation to give the obvious “looking for a job” answer. Talk about books you’ve read, projects you’ve taken on — anything that shows you’ve attempted to use your time productively.

Instead of using common phrases such as “team player” to describe yourself, talk about situations that showed your work ethic, how you respond to crises, problem-solving skills, etc. Tell a story about a time you brought the team together or an initiative that you successfully achieved.

3. Convey comfort and confidence

Be aware of your body language during the interview. Try not to fidget or avert your eyes. This diminishes confidence and can make your interviewer uncomfortable. ... click here to read the rest of the article titled "Five Tips for Job Hunting in a Tough Market"