Is Your Job Search Technique Ready For The Improving Job Market?

Indeed.com posted a very interesting chart on the improving job market. Job postings increased steadily throughout all of 2010. This matches anecdotal evidence I heard in 2010 from my recruiting colleagues who seemed busier by the day with openings. Remember that not all openings are posted so the hidden job market is improving as well — and there are even more jobs out there than visible to you!

Is your job search technique ready for this improving job market?

There are more jobs, but there will be more competition.

The unhappily employed who have been sitting on the sidelines will be encouraged by this news and jump back into the market. The long-time unemployed who might have been discouraged will jump back into their search.

Do you know what you are looking for? A good search starts with Identifying Your Target.

Do you have a powerful marketing campaign? This means resume, cover letter, networking pitch and online profile.

Do you know how to find the decision-makers in your target companies? A good search requires research.

Are you comfortable networking? How is your interviewing? You don’t want to your meetings with dream companies to be the first time you practice these critical skills.

Do you have a plan if your search stallsor things aren’t working? You need to have a support system in place.

Do you know how to negotiate and close your offer?

Caroline Ceniza-Levine is a career expert, writer, speaker and co-founder of SixFigureStart® (www.sixfigurestart.com), a career coaching firm comprised of former Fortune 500 recruiters. Caroline is a co-author (along with Donald Trump, Jack Canfield and other leading business authors) of "How the Fierce Handle Fear: Secrets to Succeeding in Challenging Times" from Two Harbors Press, 2010. Formerly in corporate HR and retained search, Caroline has recruited for leading companies in media, financial services, consulting, technology and healthcare.

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