Finding a job is difficult enough, but throw today's unstable economy into the mix and it can seem like a daunting task. Here are a few tips on how to make sure that you find a great job, regardless of the times, and how to find it in record time.

-Study Sales. Remember studying? Well, it doesn't end when you graduate. You have to stay ahead of the curve somehow, and you need to learn the best ways to do that. As I've mentioned in prior articles, everyone is a salesperson. You have to sell yourself on your resume and in interviews, and you have to sell your work to buyers, clients, and employers once you get a job. Learn the best and most innovative ways to persuade, negotiate, and influence others and you will be soaring above your colleagues. Try reading Jeffrey Gitomer (www.gitomer.com) for some great concepts that are an easy read (I keep a copy of his Little Red Book of Sales on me most of the time).

-Study Your Industry. I know, I know, more studying. But before you apply for a position, you should know what the responsibilities of that position are and the latest and most important notes on the company and industry attached to that position. When you go interview you need to have done your homework, or you shouldn't even bother showing up. So take some time, do some research, and once you land the position stay current by reading blogs, online articles, and taking professional courses.

-Freelance. Alright, so you have been looking for a job, but can't seem to find anything interesting. Why not become a freelancer? You can gain a variety of experience and you will be less expensive to the company than hiring a consultant. You could also consider working part time. Two part time jobs will give you twice the experience in the same amount of time, and it could also lead to a full time position offer in the future. Either option will help you to pad your resume and network.

-Brand Yourself. I've said it before and I'll say it again: you have to be seen as an expert to be really seen at all. Be professional, polite, and prepared. Always display your strengths, and work hard to better your weaknesses. Get involved in professional and networking organizations, utilize your current position and past affiliations, and use these opportunities to move towards your ultimate career goal. The best thing you can do to create your own brand is to author your own blog, email newsletter, or website. The internet is an inexpensive, quick, and efficient way to express your knowledge, experience, and professionalism.

-Be Patient. Don't get lazy while you search for work. Sleeping in until noon and watching Netflix all day won't help you find a job. Instead, treat your job search like a full time job, and pad your resume with some volunteer work. It will help to cover that gap of time away from the professional world, and it will help to show that you're a team player who likes to give back. And try to keep your interview suit clean and pressed at all times. You never know how short of notice you might be given.

-Contact Your Ideal Employer. So what if they aren't advertising that they're hiring. The best companies to work for are always open to the next best employee, and taking the initiative might save them money on a lengthy talent search. Bring something to the table that sets you apart. If it's a publishing firm, bring one of their articles and show how much better, faster, and more accurate you would complete the work.

-Be Ready To Settle. So you were offered a position at your last choice, for a salary under what you thought you deserved. Take it. You will gain experience, build your resume, and you can still look for another position while you pay your bills! You never know, you might end up enjoying it.