If you're going to be part of the herd and respond to online and newspaper ads, learn how to stand out from your competition. Here are some tips:

1. Don't send your resume to every ad that catches your eye, that's called spam.
   
   
2. Be selective. Carefully review the ad to see if the majority of your qualifications are a match.
   
   
3. Targeting websites? Find a niche site with positions near your city or in your exact profession or industry (see www.careerxroads.com for a directory).
   
   
4. Tailor your cover letter to the ad. If they are looking for 5 years of experience in advertising sales and you meet this requirement, tell them. "Relevant" is more important than "fast."
   
   
5. Use an exciting subject header when responding to online ads. "My resume for your review" doesn't count.
   
   
6. Make sure you spell check your email before you send it.
   
   
7. If possible, try to reach a direct contact in the advertised company through your network.

However, to really stand out from the herd, use as many methods as possible to find employment including networking, cold calls to companies, and staffing firms -- in addition to ads.

Challenge: Pick five ads and see who in your network knows someone in one of the advertised companies. Land an interview through your warm referral.