Conventional wisdom states that the best way to get a job is to figure out who you want to work for, and go after them in a proactive way. Statistically, more jobs are found this way than by answering ads.

Many career services can help you prepare your list of target companies and their executives. Once you have your list, use me-mail to get their attention.

You should also answer ads, but do not send me-mail to recruiters and HR. They need ASCII text resumes to go into their computerized systems.

In today's job market, employers want to hire people who make them feel they are getting more for their money. They aren't hiring run-of-the-mill talent anymore. They want people who come across as motivated high performers who will go the extra mile for them.

Presenting the employer with an impressive online career showcase instead of an ordinary resume is one of the best things you can do to help them form an impression in their mind that you are an extraordinary talent. There may be an overabundance of labor, but extraordinary talent is always in short supply.