Job search strategies for a tough economy

Use networking websites. Networking is an essential step for job hunting but what's new is how much of it is moving online. Not only are social and professional networking sites a good way to keep in touch or reconnect with friends and colleagues, but an increasing number of employers are looking to them for information about potential candidates. Sites like Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and BrightFuse are an opportunity to show off your qualifications and skills. In addition, look for industry or profession-specific communities to join and be an active participant.

A word of caution: avoid rookie mistakes like not keeping information up to date or posting inappropriate content. See 10 career-damaging online mistakes for advice on avoiding the pitfalls.

Go beyond the resume. A well-developed, targeted resume and cover letter are must-have items, but today's job searchers are going beyond the traditional application package and developing a suite of job search collateral. Perfect your 30-second and one minute "elevator pitches" and know your top selling points by heart.

Online portfolios, interactive curriculum vitae and promotional websites are just some of the tactics you can use to get noticed. The internet allows you to include elements that a paper resume does not, like video, images, links to other websites and even audio files.