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You've found yourself unemployed. With the recession and advances in technology, a lot has changed in the job market, and you might be feeling overwhelmed. The following tips can help you with what comes next.

* Use your 40 hours a week: In the past, you may have laughed off the thought that looking for a job is really full-time work. Think again. Use at least 40 hours a week in your job search. Set up a daily routine; get up, get ready and hit the pavement. Utilize both newspaper ads and online job boards to look for openings.
* Scout your prospects: Keep up with business journals, newspapers or other trade magazines. Look for companies that you would like to work for, and research as much as possible into them. Not hiring? Ask their HR person for an informational interview. 9 times out of 10, they will say yes.
* Network as much as possible: These days, it really is all about "who you know." Set up a LinkedIn account and connect with your top prospects and people who have similar interests as you do. Join a professional networking group or a group for other jobs seekers. Many open positions are not posted you have to have an "insider" at the company to tell you about them.
* Be sure to say "thanks": Write a personalized thank you note to those individuals whom you have interviewed with. You should always say thanks to those who helped during your job search, no matter the outcome.

The most important thing to keep in mind is that you will find work. By following these tips and never giving up, your job search will be headed in the right direction.

Anne Jabusch is the Media Relations Specialist at QPS Employment Group. QPS is a staffing and recruiting company with 20 offices throughout Wisconsin and Illinois. QPS has been placing great people at great companies since 1985. Visit the QPS Web site at http://www.qpsemployment.com to find a branch near you.