The economy isn't the best that it's ever been, but it's also not the worst. And while the job prospects make look bleak, there are ways to turn any layoff or job loss into a career change for the better.

The first principle of finding a job is to advertise your qualifications and experience. Let employers know who you are and what you can do for them. In other words, send your resume to everyone that might need someone with your profile. There is no harm in sending your resume to even those employers who are not actively looking for people. They may need your expertise at a later date.

Follow up the resume with a phone call to the hiring department of the company to see if the resume was received and if there is anyone that you can talk to about setting up an interview. At the very least, you might get an inside scoop on what positions are available so that you can talk to those departments directly.

Sometimes, it is worth the effort to go to the companies in person or set up appointments to talk to the head of the concerned department. Of course, this may not get you an instant job, but if you make a favorable impression on the department head, you stand a chance to be considered when they need to hire someone.

Networking is the best way to create job opportunities. Talk to everyone about your desire to find a new position. You'd be surprised how many people will be able to help you find something that works for you. Talk to friends and relatives. The more people are looking, the more able you will be to find something.

Remember, your resume is a window to your personality. So, try and make it as impressive and professional as you can. It's's a good idea to take the help of a professional resume writer or software program, and print it on high grade paper. It should be well worded, clean and readable, and should present you in a positive light.

While losing your job may have been expected, you never want to talk badly of your previous employers. In any future communications with job prospects, bring up all of the positive attributes of your prior jobs and only describe the challenges that you overcame while being employed.

The secret of finding a job is patience and perseverance. If you go about it the right way, soon you will be able to find someone who can see your worth and will hire you.