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http://www.westhillconsulting-career.com/blog/2014/03/10/7-tips-revamp-job-search-2014/ Experts foresee the job market being more competitive than ever in 2014. With 10.9 million Americans unemployed, it is important to take a fresh look at your job search strategy. Now is the perfect time to develop an effective plan for success. How can you set yourself apart from the competition and position yourself for finding the best next step in your career? Here are seven tips to help you refresh and refocus your job search in 2014: 1. Don't be a copycat candidate. Job searches are a very personal experience and one-size-fits-all strategies will not help you stand out among the competition. Even though a certain interview tactic or style was successful for one candidate doesn't mean it is the best strategy for you. Take into consideration your personal experiences, preferences and career goals and use them to position yourself as a unique candidate. 2. Learn to look at job titles differently. Be open-minded about your preconceived notions of job titles. Roles in compliance, human resource, or administration, for example, are often perceived as being boring, career-limiting or otherwise undesirable. Such preconceptions, however, about the scope, strategic importance and long-term potential of these positions are not always true in today's market. In many cases I've seen, these jobs offer exceptional opportunity for influential and attractive long-term careers. 3. First impressions are everywhere. With 92% of employers using social media in the hiring process, the content of your social profile forms an employer's first impression before you even sit down with for an interview. You should take special consideration to job-proof your social media profiles. For example, use a picture that represents you as a professional. Don't rely on privacy settings to keep your personal information safe. Your best bet is to assume everything will be seen by a potential emplo