PORTLAND, ME -- Even in today's job market several of my clients have landed full-time jobs -- and very good ones at that. While their fields, backgrounds and areas of expertise were distinctly different from one another, their process for finding and eventually securing a job, was quite similar. Here's a list of their winning strategies:

1. Updated, well-written, spot-on resumes that included results-oriented examples of competencies 2. Positive attitudes that kept them going through the tough days 3. Consistent and regular meetings with their contacts to keep them in a networking loop 4. Clearly communicated their job search goals in terms of the value they brought to the field 5. Thorough research of the companies with whom they were interviewing 6. Impeccable follow through after meetings with thank you emails 7. Being prepared for anything that came along during meetings 8. Realistic notions about how long the job search process would take

In each of these cases, the successful job seeker found out about a position before it was ever posted. They had their foot in the door and made an impression that set them apart from other candidates who applied through traditional avenues. What will your winning strategy be?