10 job search tips for right now

1. All work is honorable.

2. If you've slacked a bit because of summer or the economy, develop this mantra: "The summer is over, the recession is over - I'm ready to get back to work."

3. Busy people get more done. And, non value-added activities expand to fill time. Therefore:

Build a list and plan each day to get done what you need and want to. Remember how busy you were when you were working? Be busy - and industrious - again, and get more done.

4. Honor commitments you make to yourself via your daily list and otherwise.

A great example is that many people want to get in better shape by adopting an exercise routine. Working out is extremely beneficial to your job search! Let's face it, you need something you can control. When you control this you'll feel better about yourself physically, mentally and emotionally - making you more confident and available to potential employers.

5. Do the hardest thing on your list first each day. After you've crossed it off, the rest is gravy.

6. Savor compliments and build on successes. Just had a great phone call? Pat yourself on the back (briefly) and make another call. Right now.

7. Watch for a tendency to over analyze, over design, over produce, second guess or tweak-tweak-tweak (your resume, each cover letter, your portfolio, website, or LinkedIn profile....)

Bust yourself in an age-old stalling tactic and DARE TO BE AVERAGE instead! Your average probably outshines others' best.

8. Numbers, numbers, numbers. "When in doubt, mail it out."

9. Avoid black or white, yes or no, and all or nothing thinking. About industries, companies, type or level of job, people... Don't hear "no" when it's not being said, and don't tell yourself "no" too quickly. Open yourself up to far more possibility by applying expansive, "what if" thinking.

An example: Networking isn't about "This person can help me today or not." It's about multiple touch points to build real relationships with people who may or may not be able to help you in the future. Guess what - any networking contact could just as easily turn out to be someone who needs your help instead of being able to help you. Don't network for an ROI. It doesn't work. Network to be a good person and help others, and good will come back to you.

10. How you conduct your job search and yourself in it, is the best evidence to any employer of how you will be on the job.

Care about others, take initiative and work hard on your job search, and they will believe it when you say you'll contribute to their team, take initiative and work hard on the job.

Make it all about you - what you need, want, or heaven forbid, "deserve" - and you will raise legitimate concerns with potential employers that you would do the same on their nickel. No employer can afford that right now.