Finding a good job is not easy, especially in a bad economy. The competition is fierce and there is so much that you need to know to give yourself a better chance. You can use these powerful strategies to make yourself stand out from the crowd.

You want to dress nicely when you’re out searching for a job. The way you dress has a direct correlation as to how others perceive you. Always present yourself well, even if you’re just leaving an application or resume for consideration.

Return to school. At times, discovering the job you want requires that you expand your skills. To get something better for yourself, you need to better yourself so that you have more to offer a prospective employer. A number of self-study programs are available on the Internet that allow you to fit your studies into your schedule.

You must always make sure to try to keep things professional and conflict-free with your fellow coworkers. It’s important to be known as someone that other people can get along with so that you’re not known as a difficult person to get along with. Building a reputation for being easy to work with can lead to better opportunities.

Some employers provide extra perks in order to attract a better class of workers. There are many companies that offer gyms, small restaurants, and other things for their employees. Competition for jobs in these companies is fierce because good employees really want to work in them. With a massive list of interested workers, you are guaranteed to have a selection from the best minds in your field.

Although you want to be friendly to your bosses and co-workers, you should never become close friends with them. It is your best interest to keep your relationships at work on a professional level. These friendships may lead to drama and gossip which will be detrimental to the workplace. Keep away from this red flag to retain your employment.

You need a positive frame of mind. Keep your mind on getting a job, and don’t accept failure. Don’t get comfortable with unemployment checks, or you’ll feel too comfortable with your position. Figure out your goals, set a deadline and stick to it!

You should avoid being set on a single position. Even if you think something may happen for you, you won’t know it worked out until you get hired. Keep all of your options open. The more places you send your resume to increases your chance of finding a job.

As the introduction said, it’s hard to find a great job when the economy is bad. Not only is the competition fierce, but you’re being judged. Use this advice so you can become one that stands out from all the other applicants.