Searching for a job? Read on for some tips on making time easier, productive, and accomplished?€¦

Resumes   There are several resume styles. Whichever template you choose- ensure that it is clear, clean lined, and that everything is spelled consistently and contains correct punctuation. In terms of design, stick to Helvetica or times. Keep it to 1-2 pages. Include relevant experience on your resume to the applied position.  Positions not mentioned on a resume may come up in an interview, and shows flexibility but keep it short and sweet.

Sweat the Small Stuff  Keep cover letters personal and address specific skills or qualities the company is looking for.  Always send a thank-you note or email after the interview. If you don't speak or write English well- get a friend or a professional to write your resume and/or cover letter

Be Prepared  Have a voice mail system in place and sign-up for a professional sounding email address. Put your cell phone number on your resume so you can follow up in a timely manner. Always have an up-to-date resume ready to send - even if you are not currently looking for work. A great opportunity may come up at any time

It's Who You Know. Don't be shy about asking contacts either to send e-mails, make a phone call, or check for job listings. Most people are happy to help, as long as requests are short, focused, and reasonable.

Job Listings Web sites likes the OU job board, jewishjobs.com are a good place to start

Create a list of companies in your industry- check their web sites weekly for job listings

Career agencies- There are many agencies that can assist you in finding a job. Schedule interviews with them and follow up with them on a regular basis

Referrals- Create a list of every contact you've had. Most contacts are happy to send an e-mail, make a phone call, or pass on your resume. Try to get the contact to actively send that resume, or make that call. Once a week, go through your list and write status notes

Focused Time- focus time and energy into the opportunities that most interest you and have the best chance of coming to fruition

Interview- Scoring an interview is hard these days. Be prepared to sell yourself- prepare a list of interview questions and type responses. Show interest in the companies that interview you and be prepared to ask questions.

Keeping it together- Set aside a few hours a week,  do what you have to do in terms of contacting, emailing, calling, and interviewing. As long as you've done your share, let it go and don't think about it the rest of the week. Keep expectations realistic when  a call is returned.  Prayer helps!  If you live with a spouse and/or family members that are attempting to support you, acknowledge and appreciate their support. Try to be helpful in other ways while around. Your attitude may be contageus.

If you do find you are not getting returned phone calls, or notice a pattern, seek out professional help.  Hatzlacha, and please e-mail [email protected] with any specific questions.

Linda Franco is an MSW who is currently searching for a job and will be happy to share what she's learned. E-mail [email protected] with any specific questions.