Landing a job after a lengthy absence
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Personal contacts still best
Despite the growth of the Internet and job-posting sites, most jobs are won the old-fashioned way: through personal contacts. Enelow says that less than 1 percent of job seekers find work through the Web.

The three big ways to find a job through personal contacts are internships, networking and cold calls:

Internships and volunteer work can get you known and give you a chance to find out about potential jobs. They may lead to something permanent, and, even if they don't, you'll gain the experience that will help you land a paying position.

Networking is overly hyped, but it could help you find work. Attend local meetings and events organized by businesses that you're interested in. Join a trade association in your desired field to learn more about the profession and make contacts.

Another good way to find work is to cold call the companies that you want to work for. In fact, Enelow believes this is the No. 1 way to get a job, in part because people like hiring people who are enthusiastic about their companies. In addition, the squeaky wheel gets noticed. "People will set up an interview just to get you to stop calling them," Enelow says.

She advises researching the companies that you want to work for and contacting senior executives rather than hitting up the human resources department. Phone rather than e-mail your prospects. E-mails are too easy to delete.

If you're having trouble reaching people, try calling at odd hours when executives are more apt to pick up the phone. Also, be kind to gatekeepers who answer the phone. They will be more willing to help you and may say nice things about you when queried by the boss. "The admin can be your greatest ally," Enelow says. If you haven't connected after several weeks of cold calls, switch tactics and send a regular old-fashioned letter by mail.

The information interview
Another way to increase the odds of getting a response: Don't ask for a job. Request an information interview so you can learn about the company or the industry. This is becoming increasingly common, and it enables you to build a relationship without putting your contact on the spot. If the person you interview with knows you are looking, you may be the first one contacted when a position opens up.

Enelow says a cold call to Johnson & Johnson using this technique helped an out-of-work salesman land a job as a pharmaceutical representative at the company.

What it boils down to is that getting a job -- selling a company on you -- is like any other sales position: It's a numbers game. The more job leads you get and contacts you make increase the odds that one will pan out and lead you to your next job. Sure, it's tough getting back into the work force after a long stretch. But if you're persistent and do your homework, you will find yourself happily and gainfully employed.

For keys to creating a great resume, see "Resumes that rock."