It is no secret that things are "tough out there," even in the indestructible city of New York, people have experienced roadblocks in their job searches that are discouraging, confusing, and frustrating. Based on some questions posed to me recently from readers, I've created a few pointers to keep your job search on track.

1. Job Offers: a job offer isn't a job offer until it is in writing. It doesn't matter if it came from someone you really trust, or if you shook hands on the deal. Get the offer in writing. Understand what the proposed salary and benefits package includes. Only then should you consider that you have an actual job offer.

2. Who YOU are: you might be applying for work that generally comes with a certain personality type. Major league sports players are self-centered, sales people are smarmy, and chefs are impatient. Perhaps you do not match that type. It is smart of you to consider how NOT matching the typical personality is going to work for you, or against you, in a job search. How is it that you are going to succeed as an attorney if you aren't aggressive? There might be a really great advantage to the employer, you just have to tell them what it is and why it is so advantageous.

3. Speaking the language: because NYC is this wonderful melting pot of cultures and backgrounds, just about anyone can succeed if they are determined enough. One thing that might make it easier for them is to engage an English tutor. So often subtle meanings of questions and statements are lost on folks that do not speak English as their native tongue. Communication is at the core of anyone's success; wouldn't it be great to know you are answering a question precisely the way it should be answered?

4. Negotiate: most job offers aren't perfect as presented. They require some tweaking to get it where it needs to be so that both parties are mutually satisfied. Don't be afraid to bring up a point or two where you would like to see a change. Perhaps you would like to ask for 3 weeks vacation, in place of the offered 2 weeks. Maybe the salary level isn't on par with industry standard and you would like to propose something that aligns with your level of expertise and standing in the field.

If you want help with your job search, contact me with your questions. I'm happy to help you! kimberly@citycareerservices.com.