Rework Your Resume

• Your resume and cover letter serve as tools to get your foot in the door with a potential employer. Without a stellar representation of yourself, your information is likely to go in the reject pile, leaving you without an interview. Ask a friend to review your current resume and cover letter to check for readability. A professional resume service is an option if you aren't sure how to improve your resume. Highlight the past experiences that prove your value to the company. A standard template for your cover letter works for most job applications, but you need to customize the details to fit each particular company to show you did your research.
  
  

Broaden Your Options

• If you limited your job search to a specific field, type of job or geographical region, branch out to consider other options. If you are able to move, look in other areas that might have a healthier job market in your industry. Expand your applications to other positions within the industry that you might be qualified to do. Taking a job below your desired position is a way to get into the company and start earning some money. You can still work your way up into the position you really want as you prove your value to the company.
  
  

Gain More Experience

• A lack of experience or concrete knowledge about the industry puts you at a disadvantage if other applicants are more experienced. Look for training, classes or certifications in the field that you can complete quickly. Volunteer or take on an internship in the industry to gain hands-on experience. While working for free seems counter intuitive, you give yourself another item to place on your resume and you may learn new things about the field that will aid you in your job search.
  
  

Work for Yourself

• If you aren't able to secure a position with an established company, consider starting your own. Working for yourself gives you more flexibility on when you work and your earning potential, but the venture also requires a large time investment. You may not make money in the beginning as you are establishing your business. A business with little financial investment offers you the best chance for making money. Service businesses are examples. Business ideas include cake decorating, lawn care, handyman services, repair businesses or home day care. A freelance business is another option, especially if you have experience in writing, editing, photography or similar services needed by businesses. Before launching your own business, check on local regulations and requirements for the particular type of business you're starting. For example, home day cares often require a license and inspections with specific requirements for the environment.