Last week we discussed the first 5 of the 10 character traits necessary for a successful executive job search. When it comes to the job search process as a whole, these 10 traits will help you improve your skills and networking abilities.

In my experience, I have found that having these specific character traits is the difference between getting a job in a few weeks vs. a few months.

For job seekers, LinkedIn is not just your online resume. LinkedIn is also a powerful research tool that can connect you to groups, companies, and most importantly, employers.

I receive a lot of questions about how to use LinkedIn and your profile to the best of its ability. LinkedIn is essential to reach decision makers and employers. That said, it’s important your profile is compelling and tells your story.

The key to introducing yourself is to position yourself in a way that will help you get the most out of a conversation. Whether this is in a networking conversation or in an interview, your introduction is your opportunity to be memorable.

If you ask an HR manager or recruiter what they’ve found to be the most effective way to find qualified candidates, I bet they’ll tell you through referrals. In fact, that's what they tell me.

A lot of times when job seekers are getting ready for their initial interview with HR, they try to read their mind. Of course, this ability would be nice in this situation, but I think you’ll find guessing to be a waste of time.

Last week I discussed steps 1-3 of the 5 steps to communicating your “one big thing”. When you’re talking to employers, recruiters or anyone you’re networking with, these 5 steps will help you actively communicate the benefits you will bring to a company from hiring you.

When having networking conversations, informational interviews, phone interviews and face-to-face interviews, you are given a chance to do some personal marketing. During your personal marketing communication, you have the opportunity to pitch your “One Big Thing.”

We recently discussed the first 5 of the 10 reasons you aren't receiving phone calls. Here are the next 5 reasons: