Stay Positive

Just because you didn't get a response to a resume you sent in via Monster, WITI4Hire, Careerbuilder, etc. does not necessarily mean that company is not interested in you. Track down people in the department or that you would potentially report to and ask if they know of any openings available now or that are coming up. Remember, a lot of reqs open up only after a company identifies a person they want to hire.

Work with Your Recruiter, but Don't Put All of Your Eggs in One Basket

Independent recruiters can be a great resource, but they need your help as much as you need theirs. Set up weekly calls, send them info about openings you have heard about at companies you know they have relationships with, brainstorm with them on companies that should be approached on your behalf.

Research the Company Before You Reach Out

Read the last 10 press releases on their website. Get a full understanding of the business that they are in and be prepared to let them know how you can contribute. Have they made any recent acquisitions? Where is the R&D being done? What are the backgrounds of the executive teams?

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