In his book Guerrilla Marketing for Job Hunters, Jay Conrad Levinson suggests that getting the job you want is not a matter of luck, connections or the best résumé. “At the core of every job search lies one individual who will determine your success: You.” Here are some tips for creating your own job-hunting success.

1. Tune up your attitude. Keep your focus on how you can add value to the organization. Self-assess to get clear on what you want and what you have to offer.
2. Research. This is critical! Research the industry and companies. Know the needs and goals.
3. Target your networking. Don’t wait for others to refer your name; make the introduction yourself after speaking to current and past employees or industry colleagues.
4. Prepare for your interview. Anticipate questions, prepare your responses. Keep the focus on how your skills and experience will solve problems.
5. Listen more than talk. Ask thoughtful, powerful questions that show you know the industry/company/department and its needs.
6. Return to the value proposition. Keep conversations coming back to the company’s goals and how you can contribute to them.
7. Look to your body language. Have an “open” posture. Lean forward, make eye contact and smile naturally. This language speaks volumes.
8. Ask to do a demonstration. Come in for a day, or work briefly on a project to show them what you bring to the table. Sometimes it’s better to show than just tell.
9. Cultivate a can-do attitude. Show past work examples of being a problem-solver and a smart worker.
10. Send a thank-you note. Make sure it’s personal and interesting.

Author’s content used with permission, © Claire Communications