Get your foot in the door

Financial advisor Michael Brent felt unsure about moving from corporate marketing into consulting until a career coach forced him to analyze his past successes.

At first, Brent, of Philadelphia, stared at a blank sheet of paper. With prompting and prodding he explained how he'd helped his past employer grow the bottom line.

The realization that you have produced more than you might have realized "is very powerful when you're looking for work," Brent says.

Brent's coach, Ford Myers, author of "Get The Job You Want, Even When No One's Hiring" (Wiley, 2009), believes identifying tangible results is a "power sell" in a tight labor market.

"The primary question in the employer's mind is What can you do for me now?" says Myers, who lives in Haverford, Pa.

A successful applicant will list how his or her accomplishments will help a potential employer meet pressing needs and challenges.

Here are four other power moves to help you secure you the job you want:

Make time to network.

Continually increase your level of networking and expand your contact database. Jobs often arise because of whom you know and when you run into them. In addition to one-on-one meetings, leverage technology to make or strengthen connections through social networking sites such as LinkedIn or Facebook.

Never stop learning.

Distinguish yourself by staying current. Develop a plan for your own professional development, which includes activities like attending seminars, reading trade journals, pursuing certifications and seeking an advanced degree.

Ask for help.

Many individuals and organizations dedicate themselves to helping workers advance. Others will provide a different perspective on your skills, strengths and weaknesses. Take advantage of the support provided by government programs, non-profit agencies, job search groups, college/alumni career centers or faith-based missions. If income allows, hire a career coach.

Value your strengths.

Identify what you really love to do and what you do well. This approach places you in a position to deliver maximum value to a potential employer. Unlike your competition, you will exude greater confidence and focus in a job that fits your strengths.