I have officially hit rock bottom on my job search!

SCS Reader says:My job search unfortunately has taken a turn for the worst once again. Two months ago, I had three interviews with major government contractors. A month later, I got rejected by all of them. Two of those contractors decided to cancel the technical writer and business analyst position that I interviewed for because of contract issues. Another company based in Tysons Corner, decided to cancel the solutions writer position because they lost their hiring manager to another company. Therefore, they had to restructure their entire staff and freeze their hiring process.

I really don't know what to do folks. Nothing seems to working out at all, and anytime a bad break occurs, it always happens to me. Therefore, I starting to believe that I had hit rock bottom on my job search.

Do you folks have any suggestions on how should I approach my career search? I am still interested in finding a full time opportunity in technical writing, business analyst, web development proposal writing, and technical analyst positions in the Northern Virginia/ Washington D.C. metro area. I apply to those jobs on every job board website, but it hasn't worked for me at all.

At this point, getting networking contacts via LinkedIn is the best option for me in terms of getting a full time opportunity. Your help and kindly tips will be greatly appreciated.


Answer:You're in a very competitive field, in a cut-throat city. So, when companies are hiring, it's already tough. Take an objective look at yourself. What are your strengths and weaknesses? What makes you a better candidate than the others?

Have you tried tailoring your resume for the position? Instead of sending out mass resumes, pick a few really "perfect" jobs, and tailor your resume. Highlight what skills, experiences, etc. you have that make you a great candidate.

In your resume include keywords and key phrases from the job description that fit your abilities and qualifications. Your geographical location is a competitive area and no doubt not easy to get noticed. 

Don't give up the hunt and good luck.