Sure, the digs are nice, but pay close attention to the other features Ebay values: employee morale and happiness, creativity, industry understanding, and (most importantly) love of the brand itself.  The same is true of JMP Creative, another firm included in the countdown.

Perhaps it’s no wonder that these two companies alone generate millions of dollars each year in revenue.  Some might point to the killer perks these places offer (HEL-LO, you can play with toys), but my guess is that it stems from the enthusiasm and creativity of the employees- and you don’t necessarily have to be surrounded by a mountain of action figures to harness either trait.  Be sure to relay that to employers successfully, and soon you may find yourself working your way up to an office oasis.

Last week I introduced webinars as efficient and economic tools for struggling job seekers.  Fortunately, there are additional resources for those with big dreams and small wallets- podcasts.

Similar to webinars, podcasts are digital media files that are produced in episodes and can feature both audio or visual content.  Most are tailored to a specific theme and can be downloaded or subscribed to via RSS (how convenient).

Below are a few you might find helpful in your search.  From interview tricks to resume tips, the advice featured in these podcasts  runs the gamut-

• JobDig Podcasts
• Secrets of the Job Hunt
• CareerStrides

Feeling ambitious? Why not create a podcast series of your own? Turn to friends, professors, alumni for input and BE CREATIVE!  Include a link to your work with your resume or share via Twitter (hint- they’d be perfect for HAPPO coming up on Friday).

In the most basic sense, Tyler offers the hero an alternative to the mundane and meaningless and instead presents something truly innovative (although again, dangerous).  So in an effort to escape from the routine and rehearsed, take a cue from Tyler and adapt the rules of Fight Club to your own job search- but a little less “Project Mayhem” and more “Project Maybe I Should Try Something New. “

After all, the job hunt can be brutal so job seekers need all the help we can get.

1. You do not talk about FIGHT CLUB:  Whether in a resume or during an interview, there is such a thing as TMI (too much information).  Sure, you want the interviewer to realize how social media savvy you’ve become.  Telling them how you tweeted during your last root canal? TMI.  Maybe you’ve had a bad internship or straight-from-hell CEO.  Just mention that the organization wasn’t the right fit and you’re looking forward to other opportunities, especially the one here at Company ABC.  Rehashing each dirty detail after you shake hands with the hiring manager? TMI.  That’s not to say personal anecdotes should be dismissed altogether.  Just be sure said anecdotes are appropriate.
2. You DO NOT talk about FIGH’T CLUB:  Seriously- resist disclosing too much information.
3. If someone says “stop” or goes limp, taps out- the fight is over:  So you didn’t get the internship or entry-level position.  No worries, many firms keep resumes on file for a few months.  In the same way, don’t write off companies entirely (no need to be bitter, after all).  Keep your contacts handy.  In the meantime, take a different approach to your search.  Attend a career fair or virtual networking event like the one taking place next week- HAPPO.  “Help a PR Pro Out” is the first-of-its-kind, a digital meet-and-greet between potential candidates and employers.  Check out the official blog for more details or refer to the post below.
4. Only two guys to a fight:  Interviews can be nerve-wracking, sure.  It can be helpful to remember that the man or woman sitting in front of you is human.  So try to be natural (rather than rattle off statistics) and be sure to ask them a few questions about themselves.  How did you get your start at the company?  What is the most rewarding project you’ve worked on recently?  Ignore the 800 lb. gorilla in the room for a moment.  You know, the one that’s berating you about your sweaty palms and poor posture, and think of the interview as a conversation.
5. One fight at a time:  Many job seekers have a standard cover letter that is altered for each application to include the respective company name and contact.  That routine won’t do, however.  Try your best to focus on each individual listing and really tailor your cover letter.  Is the company heavily involved in social media? Include a YouTube video you produced instead of a writing sample.  Pay attention to key words in the job advertisement and on the company website.  You have a better chance of catching their eye if you include those details.  Better yet?  Check out this example of a job seeker who went above-and-beyond.
6. No shirts, no shoes:  No service.  There are plenty of horror stories about candidates arriving for an interview in flip-flops and jeans.  Avoid inclusion in this Hall-of-Shame by investing in a professional ensemble- a pantsuit is always recommended.  Not your style?  Wear slacks and a blouse with a great pair of flats, or maybe throw in a classy but eye-catching accessory.  You’ll be comfortable, yet presentable, and will have a unique conversation piece to boot.
7. Fights will go on as long as they have to:  Unfortunately, the number of applicants often outnumber each single position listed by a company.  The likelihood you may hear from an employer? Well, let’s just say that those who follow-through may be rewarded.  Drop a simple note inquiring as to the status of your application.  Already interviewed?  I’ve gone weeks without word of a final decision (my BIGGEST pet peeve by far as a job seeker), so be sure to keep in touch with your contact at the agency or firm.  Send a thank-you note and casually ask when you can expect to hear from them.  Maybe you’ve done something notable in the week or two after submitting your resume or conducting an interview.  Be sure to let them know of your progress.  Send a quick update and link to the video, blog post, etc.
8. If this is your first night at FIGHT CLUB, you HAVE to fight:  Money does not grow on trees and I’m quite confident modern science will be working on that one for a while.  Yes, the job search can be daunting, frustrating and scary at times, but you’ll meet some great contacts throughout it all (and will probably rack up a few good stories, if nothing else).  If your methods don’t seem to be working though, it’s probably time to take a step back.  Be creative in your search- try organizing a Twitter chat, begin a podcast noting your experiences, take an online class or two.  Then get back in the fight.  I know this because Tyler knows this.

On Friday, February 19, between 11 am and 3 pm (Eastern), public relation professionals and industry headhunters will work together to introduce eager job seekers and employers- those approaching graduation, that means you, too- through an event appropriately called “Help a PR Pro Out.”

This is where yesterday’s post may come in handy.  To participate in HAPPO, unemployed tweeps are encouraged to share a blog post, podcast, PowerPoint, etc. that will show employers their stuff.  Be sure to post your creation along with the #HAPPO hashtag during the event, as certain industry professionals, or “market champions,” will be retweeting and working to connect potential employees with companies in specific markets.

Check out the official event blog for further information and updates at www.helpaprproout.com.  Be sure to take note of all of the “market champions” and supporters listed! Some, like Sarah Evans, are offering additional ways to connect.

There’s no need to limit yourself to one networking event, though!  There are handfuls of other creative ways to network.  One in particular? A monthly Twitter chat, “designed to bring together PR students, professionals, and educators for a dynamic conversation about the Public Relations Industry and to provide opportunities for learning, networking and mentoring relationships,” PRStudChat is a fantastic way for undergrads to gain insight into the industry (not to mention make a great first impression).

The chats are moderated by Deirdre Breakenridge (@dbreakenridge) and hosted by the co-creator of HAPPO, Valerie Simon (@valeriesimon).  Check out the group on LinkedIn or make an introduction to either of the lovely ladies mentioned and get involved today!

Not a public relations major? No sweat.  Search for Twitter chats in your field or start one of your own with the help of a professor or student organization.  Social media isn’t limited to the communication industry alone, and who better to make the initial connection than you?

So shake off that Superbowl hangover, because we’re about to dive right in!

It was about this time one year ago that I began my job search.  I may have walked across the stage without an offer, but I had months of job search experience, weeks worth of industry contacts, and had discovered a little thing called Twitter that was about to blow up in a big way.

So whether you’re just beginning your job search or are looking for some fresh ideas, take note of these following tips.

• Start a love affair with social media (if you haven’t already)- Some people tease me about my Twitter obsession, but I have a feeling they’ll eat their words.  Why am I so confident?  Well, the fact that Pepsi skipped the Superbowl in favor of social media spending may have something to do with it.  Companies are hopping on the social media bandwagon and are devoting more and more of their budget to developing new applications and campaigns.  That means tech-savvy seniors with a head start have the potential to score a piece of the pie- a VERY large piece.  Learn the ropes and apply Twitter, Facebook and Ning to your job search.  Create a list of tweeps tailored to your industry, join a Twibe and network, or start interacting with companies through Facebook pages.
• You can be frugal and fill up that resume at the same time- In such a competitive market, job seekers can be short on experience.  As a college senior or recent graduate, you’re most likely short on money, as well.  The solution? Webinars.  Job seekers can register for a variety of webinars (hint- many are free) and gain valuable insight from reputable associations and individuals.  Better yet?  Some platforms feature a chat so you can network with other attendees.  Many also allow users access to the presentation afterward, so don’t sweat if you miss it.  Here’s one to get you started:

Using Social Media in Your Job Search

The National Society of Collegiate Scholars

Wednesday, February 10, 2010 2:00 pm
Eastern Standard Time (GMT -05:00, New York)

Click here to register

Be sure to check out the free workshops at your local Apple stores, as well.  You can learn the basics of the Mac, iPod, or iPhone, create slideshows in iPhoto, or use the podcast templates in iWeb to publish podcasts on the web.  Take that knowledge and apply it to compnies you’re interviewing with, and you’ll be sure to wow employers!

• Employ an extra set of eyes- Everyone makes mistakes, even the most senior managers and executives, but when applying for a position, it’s doubly important to review documents.  A senior vice president at my company told me that an overwhelming number of applicants submit cover letters and resumes that highlight their vast experience in pubic relations and ability to asses market trends.  If you didn’t catch those last two mistakes, maybe it’s time for you or a friend to give your resume the once over.

• Never dismiss someone- Walking into an office for an interview can be a bit of a frazzled experience.  Most often, applicants are winded from the commute and are desperately trying to remember company and client details all the while maintaining a smile and sturdy handshake.  Still, the waiting room is no place to review flash cards.  Take the opportunity to greet the receptionist and make an impression.  Ask about the office space or how long he or she has worked there.  Trust me, companies ask for their input after a candidate has left.

• Social media can be a blessing and a curse- My co-workers told me my fluency with social media applications was one of the main reasons they hired me.  If you haven’t jumped on the band-wagon yet, the time is definitely now.  Still, social media can be a double-edged sword.  No matter how much you may want to brush off warnings from your professors and parents, companies look at your social network profiles, including Twitter.  This doesn’t equate to a complete loss of personality, but try to refrain from tweeting about that embarrassing walk-of-shame or drunken upheaval.

• Remember the interview is a conversation- So many applicants get so wrapped up in a rehearsed speech demonstrating their skills and accomplishments that they forget to take a breath, let alone ask questions in return.  Sometimes, the answers to those questions can spark a shared experience or acquaintance that can ultimately make a big difference.  After the particulars were out of the way, I discovered that the woman interviewing me shared a common friend and another person at the company also competed in public speaking in high school.  Who would have thought that networking and public speaking skills are a handy thing to have in this industry?

Register here to attend the free career fair on December 9th! Be sure to check out their advice for job seekers as well, including an article about managing job search stress.  Not in NYC? No worries!  Follow them on Twitter to get the most up-to-date alerts about other job fairs nationwide.

• 100% of females polled (56% of the total) choose writing ability as the most important, while 75% of males (44% of the total number polled) agreed.  The other 25% of males chose previous agency experience as the single greatest factor.
• When considering age, 100% of individuals 18-24 that responded to the poll found previous agency experience more important.  Instead, 100% of those 35-54 chose writing ability.
• In regard to company size, 100% of those polled in large (13%) and small (63%) firms chose writing ability.  Employees at medium-sized firms (25%) were split, with 50% choosing writing ability and 50% choosing agency experience.
• Education only accounted for 3% of the overall results.

I found this very interesting considering how many job advertisements call for 1-2 years of prior agency experience and current media contacts.  I quickly realized though that the poll was not limited to entry level candidates.  Would the results differ?

Below is a poll I created based off of the LinkedIn poll by Doreen Clark.  I invite all human resource employees, internship coordinators, and agency interviewers to vote.  Disagree with the choices? Please include an answer of your own in the ‘Other’ category.

The results may provide some really helpful insight for current college students and recent graduates (including yours truly).  Comments are encouraged!

How? Well, there is certainly strength in numbers.  In regards to unemployment, the strength manifested is often mental, and as the number of familiar faces in the unemployment line dwindle, it becomes harder to stay optimistic in your own search.

Rather than become bitter and jeopardize my personal plight for a position, however, I decided to become resourceful.  I spoke with a few friends about what methods they used and found that two words kept repeating- temp agency.

According to the American Staffing Association, it turns out about 90% of firms have used temporary employment services. Even better? Almost 72% of temporary employees go on to permanent positions.

In the past, temp agencies were largely associated with clerical and administration positions and I’ll admit, at first I disregarded them entirely.  I recently registered with one, however, and I’ve found that already a huge weight has been lifted off of my shoulders.  No longer alone in my job search, I have a veritable army of people behind me working (free of charge) toward the same goal.  The historical perceptions of the past also proved to be misleading as temp agencies today work with a variety of companies and place candidates from a wide array of fields.

Registration may differ between companies, but usually candidates are asked to schedule an appointment and complete several writing and computer tests to evaluate proficiency.  An updated resume, along with a number of professional references, may also be requested.  The following two agencies came recommended by friends:

• Core
• Vanguard

Both are located in the NYC area.  Be sure to research temp agencies near you, including those that support different fields.  Happy hunting!

New York Career Fair

Date: Monday, November 16

Location: Radisson Martinique On Broadway Hotel
49 WEST 32ND STREET
New York, NY 10001

Time: 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM

For a list of attending companies, click the link and fill out the brief registration form.  Not in NYC? Just simply change the location and search for job fairs in your area.