by Kaitlyn Hamilton

Created on: August 31, 2008   Last Updated: January 29, 2012

Searching for that perfect job can be unnerving. Especially if you are out of work and in need of money in a hurry. Finding a good job is becoming more and more difficult in today's economy where companies are cutting back on jobs every day. It is difficult, but not impossible. What you need is a game plan.

First, you should consider what talents and capabilities you can offer an employer. Write down a list off all your strong points as an employee. Include your labor skills, computer skills, hobbies, special interests, and all of your strong characteristics as a person. Be confident in your value as an employee and don't be afraid to go after the higher paying jobs. Confidence in yourself and your abilities will speak louder during an interview than your resume.

Now that you've made a list of all the reasons why an employer should be excited to add you to their workforce, it's time to put together your resume. If you already have a resume, then you should look over it and make sure everything is up to date. Don't just make a list of your employers and your job titles. Be specific. List some of the things you have accomplished for your employer at each of your previous jobs. Make your resume stand out. Make it interesting to read.

Next, make a list of all the employers in your area where you would consider working. If you are having difficulty coming up with more than one or two employers, then get out the phone book. You also should use the internet to search for potential employers. When you make your list, be sure to include phone numbers. Also, check to see if the employer has a website where you can apply for a job online. Once you have several potential employers listed, then go back and put them in order from most to least desirable.

Pick up the phone and start calling. Ask to speak with someone in human resources or a manager if there is not an HR department. Once they are on the phone, introduce yourself and ask if they are accepting applications. Be sure to get a fax number, mailing address, or email address and the name of a contact person who will be receiving your resume and/or application. Most employers these days will fax or email an application to you, but be prepared to go pick one up if necessary.

You're making progress, but you aren't quite there yet. Now you need to type up cover letters for each potential employer where you will be applying. Add a copy of your resume to each cover letter. Start by filling out online applications where

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