Revamp your resume to demonstrate accomplishments and successes. For instance, if you saved an organization money or solved a major customer service problem make sure the actions and results are clearly stated. I would also suggest starting your resume with a professional summary highlighting strengths and accomplishments. Write it as a 30-second commercial detailing who you are. Finally you may want to tailor your resume to each position based on the industry. It is extra writing, but will more than likely benefit you in the end. 

Make yourself known beyond the resume. After you have applied for a position try to contact the hiring manager or network with someone employed by the company or who has an association with it. Which brings me to another tip-network, network and then network some more. Alumni groups, professional organizations and education associates are just a few groups you can tap into to effectively find your next job. 

In an economy as tough as this one, selling yourself is key too. Try to obtain non-interview meetings with executives or management at organizations you might like to work within. You can approach this as a fact finding mission and at the same time make yourself known to future prospective employers. 

It is very rare that we experience an economic downturn with massive job losses such as the one we are currently experiencing. My advice is to enjoy your  down time while you determine the career path you would really like to pursue.

Thanks to all of the alumni that attended the Mock Interview and Resume boot camp days!  Many of you commented how helpful it was in preparing you for upcoming interviews and revamping your resume. One experienced alum commented that it helped him learn to market himself better and ultimately led to him receiving an offer for a job. Keep your eyes open in the fall for our next scheduled date. 

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