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Desperate times, desperate job hunting tactics

In a recent post about tactics to help land a job in an uncertain economy I included a cartoon of a sorry-looking fellow wearing a "Will work for food" billboard as he paced the sidewalk and said it "hopefully wouldn't come to this". I was just joking, you know.
Written by Deb Perelman, Contributor

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In a recent post about tactics to help land a job in an uncertain economy I included a cartoon of a sorry-looking fellow wearing a "Will work for food" billboard as he paced the sidewalk and said it "hopefully wouldn't come to this". I was just joking, you know.

Yet someone out there has carried around a sign that said, "Will work for paying bills." in an effort to land a job. Another candidate advertised on a billboard, while a different one wore a shirt to an interview that said, "Please hire me."

So much for not seeming desperate, huh?

These examples come from a recent CareerBuilder.com survey highlighting some of the most unusual tactics job seekers have used to get hired, according to the employers who were subject to them. Eschewing the more popular 30 second elevator pitch, one candidate approached the hiring manager instead in a restroom. Another job seeker, clearly a technically-inclined one, created an electronic resume with flash animation and musical score.

"Candidates have a short window to make a lasting impression on potential employers," said Jason Ferrara, senior career adviser at CareerBuilder.com. "Those who apply resourcefulness and an inventive approach to their job search may have a better chance of standing out in the minds of hiring managers. The key is making sure you are maintaining an appropriate balance of creativity and professionalism so you are remembered for the right reasons."

Perhaps it is because I have yet to have my morning coffee, but it is the candidate who showed up with breakfast for the employer every single day until they were hired that really warmed my heart. I mean, sure, I'm not hiring for any position right now, but I'd probably consider creating one for someone who brought me a daily latte or bagel I didn't have to forage for myself.

How about you: What's the most ridiculous thing you've done to land a job you really wanted? Was it worth it?

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