As current economic conditions contribute to increased competition in the job market, candidates are advised to put a lot of care into the first impression they show employers, as that could make the difference between landing a dream job or letting it slip away. Jay Liwanag, a career services director at American University, said that first impressions are vital for opening up doors when job-seekers are networking with others in their industry. He recommended that candidates research the particular people and companies they would like to talk to before approaching an employer, so they can angle their pitch towards decision-making individuals. Something as simple as wearing professional clothing and carrying oneself with confidence can give the right impression, he explained. Mr Liwanag also suggested that applicants make sure their online profiles - such as those on social networking websites - are free of embarrassing photos or other material that could send the wrong message. "More than 70 per cent of jobs are not formally advertised in newspapers or online," he said, adding that those who "utilize all their resources and think creatively to make connections will be better positioned in the job market". Healthcare and education are two sectors which have been tipped by the Department of Labor as likely to show the most growth in the near future.  |