Your real competition isn't some job hunter off the street. It's the candidate who was coached by The Headhunter. Use The Headhunter's insider perspective to your advantage; don't let it sneak up and bite you!

From The Archive

49. Live like an exception.
Most people depend on the ads to find a job. Some develop personal contacts to get close to the company they want to work for. They're the exception.

Most job hunters get turned down at the resume stage of the hiring process. Their resume goes into the circular file. Others skip the resume altogether and find ways to demonstrate their abilities rather than explain their past. They're the exception.

A lot of people take a job because it's offered to them. They're flattered that a company wants them. Precious few turn down many jobs while working their buns off to get the one job they really want. They're the exception.

Most job candidates worry about negotiating a few more dollars into the job offer. Others focus on working for the right company and the right manager, and put their trust in their own ability to produce profit for the company. That earns them hefty raises and promotions throughout their careers, and it raises the equity they have in themselves. They're the exception.

Most people see the statistics, shrug and accept their fate. They compare themselves to others who make the same mistakes they do, and figure they're no worse off.

Don't seek solace or encouragement from the job market or employment statistics. Don't seek your future in the statistics unless you want to be a statistic.

Live like an exception. Hunt for a job the same way.