Job-seeking is much like running for political office. It's important to be seen in public. Employers can't hire you if they don't know you exist. Recruiters can't find you, either.
Use every avenue at your disposal to gain public visibility. Contribute time to volunteer organizations. Write a letter to the editor of your local paper or to Forbes, Business Week, or any appropriate technical or professional publication. Some of your letters won't be published, but many will. This tactic generally won't bring calls from strangers, but someone who knows you may suddenly be reminded to call you.
If you enjoy writing, contribute articles to newspapers, magazines, and professional journals. Some of these publications will actually pay you to write!
If you're a speaker, give talks. Teach at the local community college; you'll create an instant network. If you're asked to appear on radio or television, say yes. Too many job hunters work desperately to be noticed, but turn down free opportunities to be seen. Several contributors to this book didn't want their real names published. While I respect their privacy, I also wonder, "Why not? It's free publicity!" The next time you're in the job market—which could be any time—more people will know you.
Do whatever it takes to gain public visibility: write, speak, appear, volunteer. Make certain you are seen and noticed, and that will help you get hired.
"Looking for a job has been tough.
I've been branded
as somewhat of
a loner."
