Self-introspection is the way to improve any company, any marriage, any nation. And any job-hunt.

Not just one way to describe ourselves, but two ways, at least.Not just one way to hunt for a job, but two ways, at least.Not just one kind of job to hunt for, but two kinds of jobs, at least.Not just one size company to go after, but two sizes, at least.Not just one place we really would like to work at, but two places, at least.

Just because you can’t find them doesn’t mean they don’t exist. You’ve got to change the way you’relooking for them. Because there are always job vacancies out there.

The success of your job-hunt dependson you—with a little help from your friends. You must be in charge of it. You must plan it. You mustdirect it. You must know what works and what doesn’t work. Your job-hunt is by its very nature a“self-directed search.

Most job-hunters (and even a few resume writers)assume a resume’s purpose is to “sell you,” or secure you a job. No, no, no. Its only purpose is to get youan interview. Selling is what you do after you’re in the interview room. It’s your task, when you’re face to face, notthat piece of paper’s.

If someone out of work knows only three words about their impending job-hunt, I’m willing to bet thosethree words will be: resumes/CV, interviews, and networking.

It is a great victory if you learn how to survive in today’s hard times; it’s an even greater victory if youhelp someone else survive and find meaningful work.