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Third: Everyday, tell at least one new person weekly about your job search. That should include the lady at the church door on Sunday, the drycleaner, the coffee cart guy, etc. You never know who might have a contact that will help your
cause.

Fourth: Volunteer. Volunteer to pick up your little sister from school, or pick up your Mom's drycleaning or take your Dad's car to be washed. All these chores involve interaction with people. So, when you pick up your little sister and Mrs. Smith asks "What brings you here?", take this opportunity to let her know you are "around" because you are looking for work and ASK if she knows of anyone or anything that might help with your search. When you want something in life, you usually need to ask.  And in the interim, you are helping out your Mom.

Also, volunteer your time for a neighborhood organization. It's called "paying it forward" and it's a really good thing. Afterall, we're all here to lift each other up!

Fifth: Don't believe for a second, that by signing up for resume auto-response on the big boards, you've covered your bases. Never take a "wait and see" attitude. If you genuinely feel recruiters aren't returning your phone calls or companies aren't responding to your resumes, be proactive. For example, try writing an actual paper letter since paper stands out these days. Also, in addition to sending a cover letter and resume, write a note asking for a recruiter's help or for a company's consideration down the road. It never hurts to ask and you might come across an individual who ultimately makes a difference.

Sixth: Here's another idea. If possible, find yourself a part-time job while you're looking for your ideal job. And don't concern yourself with whether that job is of the same caliber. While working at the part-time gig, a person you interact with may ask themselves or you, would you like to be doing more? That same person might be the one to come up with an idea or contact to help you land your dream job. AND, in the event your job search takes longer than expected, this part-time position will prevent you from having an employment gap on your resume and from further tapping into savings.

Also, make certain you have a "B" plan; a hobby, special interest or talent at which you can excel and make extra cash. Since nine to five positions are no longer secure and the future of Social Security is uncertain, continue to cultivate your "B" plan with no limit, even after you've landed your full-time position.

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