Always build the bridge before you need to cross the river. The day may come when you need an Executive Recruiter. It never hurts to be friendly with one or two good Executive Recruiters. If nothing else, they can keep you apprised of marketing conditions.

Many companies have relaxed their social media policies in recent years. For one, more companies want their workers to be active on social media, and it may even be part of their job description. Some studies have even found that employees who use social media outperform those who don't.

To attract top talent, not only to you need to be a great employer but you need to let people know that you are a great employer. This is how you build your reputation and your company brand. Take a moment to review your employee practices for retention, motivation, accountability, reward, recognition, flexibility in work-life balance, promotion and involvement.

Understanding the value that you bring to the table can make all the difference in getting hired. Before interviewing, take a moment to write down 2-3 things that you do that make you valuable to your current employer and will add value to a potential employer. Try to incorporate these into your answers during your interview.

Many individuals believe that their resume needs to fit on one page. It is better to list all your assets and experience so hiring managers and/or recruiters can gauge your ability to do the job. If you omit something on your resume for space, they may think you do not have the proper skills. One page resumes are generally for people that just come out of college and do not have that much experience.

When sending interview thank you emails, always make sure to check your email for spelling and grammar mistakes. Hiring managers and those on the interviewer panel feel these mistakes convey a sense of unprofessionalism. Don't let the difference between your and you're mean you miss out on a wonderful opportunity.

When choosing a recruiter consider one who specializes in your field. Because most recruiters specialize in specific industries and job functions, you will likely have the most productive relationships with recruiters specializing in your field and/or job function.

You never know when you might need a recruiter again. You can get great support from recruiters, but only when you stay connected.

As a job seeker, be open to suggestions and coaching to help you in your career journey. When interviewing, it is always important to be on time, understand the company culture, realize your most marketable qualities, and know how to highlight them during your interview. A Recruiter or Career Coach can help guide you through the process.

When applying for a job, study the job description and any available information you have on the position. Does your resume mirror the words and phrases in the job description? Are you showcasing your strengths in the areas that seem to be of paramount importance to this role? Always line it up.

Consider your LinkedIn profile as a first impression. When designing or editing, always make sure it is free of spelling and punctuation errors. If you have grammatical mistakes, you could be passed over for future work opportunities.

When interviewing, it is always better to talk about what you gained from an experience rather than speak negatively of a past employer of colleagues.

Once you are in the process of working with the recruiter and interviewing with the employer, don't contact the employer directly. Trust your recruiter to see you through the process.

One of the best ways to ensure a productive relationship with recruiters long into your career is to help them out by recommending top-performing friends and members of your network to them.

Don't lie if you were laid off or your job was terminated. The truth will come out, and if you secure the position, your future at the company will be in jeopardy. Answer with the facts. Be open and confident, providing valid reasons for losing previous positions.

Arrive for your interview 5-10 minutes early. Everyone has their watch set differently, and a 5-minute cushion is a good idea. Some interviewers are time-sensitive and notice if you're even one minute late, dulling initial impressions. Don't arrive too early and put pressure on the interviewer if they are not ready for you yet.

When interviewing, introduce yourself with a smile, a handshake that matches the firmness of the hirer's, and a relaxed and self-assured demeanor.

First impressions matter. If appropriate, ask ahead of time about what to wear. The safe bet is to dress professionally, paying attention to grooming, colors, and accessories.

Bring a notepad and pen to take notes during each interview. This is an effective way to show your interest in the job and your attention to detail. It also gives you an opportunity to look down at times if you struggle with eye contact.

Nonverbal communication cues are part of the impression you make. A weak handshake, for example, shows a lack of authority. An averted gaze signals distrust or disinterest in the job. Show assertiveness by sitting up straight and leaning slightly forward in your chair.