Time to test your Job Search IQ.  When the search is taking longer than you would like, test yourself by answering the following questions. Why should I be hired? Are my skills competitive in the market? Am I focused on what I want to do? Are my communication tools, resume and cover letters, powerful and eye catching? Am I fully prepared for interviews? Evaluating your efforts can help you get through that brick wall known as job search.

 Should resumes be only one page long?

One page resumes are no longer standard for those with experience beyond high school and college. Use brief and succinct statements for easy reading, but make certain there is enough information to pique the interest of the reader. Resumes should focus on your skills and experience, and accomplishments related to the job opening. If you are experienced, one page does not give you opportunity to convey relevant experiences or accomplishments Resumes should not contain personal information, pictures, or references.

 May I write on generic cover letter and address it  “to whom it may concern?

Cover letters, like resumes, are examples of your written communication skills. Ardease Johnson says, “always try to find the name of a person in a company. That can be done through research or a simple phone call.” But, if you are unable to find a name, replace the salutation at the top of the page with the date followed by a re: position being sought. Example - re: Bookkeeper. Include a cover letter that is an introduction to you and to your resume. A fax cover page does not take the place of a cover letter.

Is it a good idea to mass mail hundreds of resumes to random companies hoping I will fit in somewhere?

It is estimated that somewhere between 70 to 85 % unpublished actual job openings are usually filled by referrals from people within the company, through networking and by recruiters. Unsolicited resumes can be annoying if there are no relevant job openings. Mailings are more successful if you know you are qualified for an actual open position. Do your homework.” Otherwise, you are wasting time and postage.

 Why aren’t the employment services or “headhunters” finding me a job?

“Employment services and recruiters are hired by companies to find applicants whose background correspond to

specific qualifications of a job,” says Carey Mahoney. Recruiters must work within client company parameters. If your experience in an industry and your qualifications are what the client company is looking for, only then, will recruiters market you to an organization. In the meantime, be your own recruiter by networking and finding referrals.

 Is it permissible to leave off salary history on an application?

Applications must always be filled out completely and truthfully. Through research you can usually find the industry and geographic averages of pay.  Obviously you want to make as much money as you can, but some hiring managers would prefer a dollar range for which you are willing to work. Negotiations are best done after a job has been offered. In a face-to-face interview, a request for salary expectations is somewhat different. Knowing the market range makes you a better judge if the salary is fair. Remember, salary is only a part of the compensation package. Consider benefits, prospects for advancement, leaning new skills, even, commute time.

 How do I handle the question of being terminated from my last job?

Honesty is always the best policy. If you are unemployed because of downsizing or a lay off, employers do not consider that a strike against you. If you were terminated for cause, be honest and upfront. Indicate that although you used poor judgment in the past, you have learned from that mistake, and will never allow it to happen again.

Should I include references with my resume and/ or give them to an interviewer before I am asked?

Do not include references on a resume. Always have people’s permission to use them as a reference.  When you do believe that they will be contacted, let them know in advance. It is also a good idea if you tell them the type of job you have applied for and how your skills match the job requirements.

If an interviewer asks me a question that I feel is inappropriate, how should I respond?

Discrimination in hiring is a serious issue. Most experienced interviewers and recruiters are careful about the answers they

solicit. Be tactful. You may follow up with your own statement or question; I am curious why this information is needed for

this position? For example they may ask you if you have a car. What they really want to know is if you have reliable

transportation to get to work. Job interviews are often as stressful for the interviewer as they are for you. It is always your

decision to accept or reject a job offer.