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Looking for a job can be stressful and draining -- it may also feel daunting. You already know that looking for a job is a full-time job in itself, but what happens if you have spent weeks or months searching for a job, and still come up empty? There are tips that can help you deal with the stress of finding of a job:

• Don't Rely Solely on the Internet to Find a Job: Fewer than half of all jobs are ever posted on job boards. Many jobs are filled through networking. Your contact list may be the greatest advantage you gained from your last job, so be sure to leverage those contacts -- and to create new contacts -- to find job opportunities.
• Don't Limit Your Options: If you can’t find a job in your field, then you may be facing the prospect of taking a job at a lower pay than what you need. That decision is difficult, and should be considered carefully, but it is an option.
• Meet with a Career Counselor: When you’re going through a job search, you may find yourself dealing with emotional highs and lows. You may feel like you're hitting a wall in your search, or that none of the job postings you find are for jobs you'd want to take. If you find it overwhelming, you may consider meeting with a professional career counselor. Before the meeting, know how to make the most of your time.
• Educate Yourself on Job Search Strategies: Educating yourself about job search strategies can help you best handle your job search. Check out the recent CNN article 10 Reasons You Can't Find a Job for tips on the job search.

If you are finding that you are getting called in for interviews, but not landing the job, then you may want to polish your interviewing skills. Here are some tips for having a successful interview:

• Ask About the Compnay: When you go to an interview, always have a few questions about the company in mind. You need to show that you’ve prepared for the interview and that you are knowledgeable about the company
• Follow Up on Your Job Interview: Call the employer a week after interviewing for a job to confirm your interest in the position.
• Dress Matters: When you’re searching for a job, being appropriately attired is vital to making a good first impression. Check out Seeking Success: Career Article 166 for help on dressing for success.

If you need help with your job search, consider reaching out to a headhunter or employment agency, both of which will look for jobs on your behalf. If you feel that your resume needs professional help, consider hiring a resume writer. Most colleges and technical schools offer continued career services to their alumni. Visit your school's website to connect with the career services department.

If you have followed all of these tips, and are still struggling with finding a job, don't get discouraged. There is a job out there for you, and it's important not to give up. Remember that you are a worthy candidate and have much to offer as an employer. Keeping up your confidence can only help you in your quest.

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