Your company, Human Resource Solutions, has launched three job search programs to help job seekers. Can you tell us a little more about these programs?

Now more than ever, job seekers need an edge. Finding work is more than finding a job. For most, it is a life-changing transition.

The programs are designed for job seekers who have a vision of where they want to be in their careers. Getting there is a whole other story.

We offer three programs so job seekers can choose the one that is most closely aligned with their specific objectives and needs. Here is an overview of the options:

Job Search Mentor Program:
The Job Search Mentor Program is six months of unlimited access to me by e-mail, phone, and fax. I help people develop their job search strategies (whom to target, how to gain access to more hiring managers, how to position yourself as the best candidate for the job, social networking, etc.), as well as the day-to-day workings of their search, (how to prepare for an interview, language to use when contacting prospective employers, questions not to ask prior to an offer, overcoming objections, how to get to the next "yes," etc.) and how to negotiate an employment package that is favorable for you.

Typical client results include:

• Decreased stress as clients feel more in control of the job search process
• Removal of obstacles to productivity through identification of self-imposed roadblocks
• Increased confidence knowing an expert is by your side helping you stay on track

Accelerated Job Search Program:
This program is for people who want expedite the job search process and hit the ground running. In addition to what is provided in the Job Search Mentor Program, I will review job search-related documents (resume, cover letter, thank you note) and will respond with comments within two business days of submission. Participants will have access to templates for resumes, cover letters, and thank you notes.

We will conduct role-plays on the phone prior to interviews and phone calls, and I will debrief you so you are well prepared for the next stage of the interviewing process. If you find a job before the six month term expires, you may use the time left to smoothly transition into your new position with an expert at your side.

In addition to the client results listed under the Job Search Mentor Program our clients report:

• Increased time in front of hiring managers due to decreased time spent perfecting resumes and other job searching communication pieces
• More second interviews as a result of our coaching in effective interpersonal skills
• Stronger connections with hiring managers due to increased networking abilities

Job Search Coaching Program:
This program is recommended for those who want to take control of their future. Our work is collaborative. I transfer the skills to my clients so they can choose to take the next journey solo. Of course, I am happy to ride along as well.

I have designed the six-month Job Search Coaching program to help individuals who require a more detailed plan to stay on track. In addition to what is included in the Accelerated Job Search Program, together we will establish weekly goals and set aside a weekly time to check in.

If you'd like, we can explore what you really love to do and come up with ways you can incorporate this into your search. This is an opportunity to take stock and dramatically improve the quality of your life.

We'll discuss what is working and modify the plan to adjust for factors that may be impacting your progress. We will build on your strengths and discuss ways to remove obstacles. This program is recommended for those who work best when they are held accountable by an outside resource and require rapid results.

In addition to the benefits listed above for the Job Search Mentor Program and the Accelerated Job Search Program, participants achieve:

• Increased focus as next steps and deadlines are in the line-of-sight
• Rapid goal attainment because their search is focused and aligned with specific desired outcomes
• Increased potential for future job growth and earning

When should a job seeker seek help from an outside source? Is it better to do so at the beginning of the job search process or should job seekers wait until it becomes obvious that they are having trouble securing a position?

It really depends on the individual.

Some people are extremely focused and are experienced in job searching. For those people, I would suggest they give it a go on their own. They can engage the help of an outside source if their job search is not going according to plan.

Then there are the rest of us, whose performance and focus significantly improves when we have someone working along side us to help us stay on track. Hiring an outside person right from the start can significantly decrease the amount of time it will take to find meaningful work.

Do you have any final tips for job seekers who are worried about finding the right position?

In this economy, it is not about perfection. You may not find the "perfect" job right now so it is important to adjust your expectations. You will have plenty of opportunities to seek the right position when the economy turns around. Right now, the way to win this game is to become gainfully employed.