12 Tips for a Lengthy Job Search

1. Don't rely on one resume and cover letter. The longer the job search, the more custom resumes and cover letters you will need. Your resume and cover letter should match your skill set to that particular job's qualification requirements.

2. Don't expect a response from every company. Long gone are the days when the hiring agent would inform you that you're not the right candidate. Today, if the company is interested in you, the hiring agent will let you know.

3. Don't harass the hiring agent. Do not make more than one inquiry into the status of your application. If they tell you they will get back to you, believe them whether they do or not.

4. Don't expect immediate results. Finding the right job takes a lot of effort and time. Even when the company decides you're the best candidate, it may take weeks or months to be processed.

5. Don't limit your possibilities. Unless it's drastically lower than your job expectations, a lesser title, pay or benefits may at least get you in the door. Once you've landed a job you will have a chance to prove yourself. If at all possible, also be flexible in where you can work.

6. Don't get discouraged. Discouragement is only in your mind. The reality is every day you look for work is a new day. What happened the day or week or month before is history. Shake off disappointments with a quick "pity party" and then let it go.

7. Don't focus on the rejection. Treat it as information. At least you know that for now that company does not have a job for you or that your skill set is not a match with that job or company. If possible, find out why you were rejected. The more specific the feedback, the more specific your changes and improvement.

8. Don't compare yourself to others. If your colleagues are finding work faster than you, or you're in an outplacement group and you're the last one left, don't compare their situation to yours.

9. Don't spend all your money. Pace yourself and your budget. Take a temporary or part-time job to pay your bills. Try to find something at night or on the weekends so you're available to interview during the normal workweek.

10. Don't go sloppy. This is not the time to gain weight, grow lots of facial hair, or wear sloppy clothes. How you look is how you feel. Be kind and respectful to yourself.

11. Don't stop looking until you actually have the job. Because stuff happens, keep your job search going until you have a contract or start date. Too often, candidates stop looking once they have an interview!

12. Don't panic and exaggerate. If your resumes are not getting results, don't even think of enhancing your resume with exaggerations and untruths. Character still counts.