You have been looking for a job for six months but you still haven't found one? Ask yourself.

1. Are you networking? Job-seekers today can't rely on passive methods of job-hunting. You have to meet people and tell as many of them as possible that you're looking for a job (be specific).

2. Are you limiting your search? Are you relying strictly on job ads in the newspaper? Or have you decided that Internet ads will be the source of your next job? Don't search in only one sphere. Don't limit your search; incorporate every form of job-hunting into the mix.

3. Are you targeting employers most likely to need your skills? A really effective job search begins with comprehensive employer research and development of a list of employers to target. Based on various research criteria, you can target companies you most want to work for, companies that are likely to have plentiful openings in your field, and/or companies in particular need of the skills you have to offer.

4. Are you spending enough time job-hunting? Many experts believe job-hunting should in itself be a full-time job. If you're in school or employed while seeking a better job, your time may be somewhat limited. But you should put as much time as you can into it.

5. Do you follow up after sending out your resume? Those who proactively follow up are much more likely to get interviews.

6. Are you even getting interviews? If you're following up but still not getting interviews, the problem could lie with your resume or cover letter.

7. How are your interview skills? If you're getting lots of interviews but never make it past the interview stage, your interview skills might need some polishing. Have a friend conduct a mock interview with you and critique your performance. Better yet, find a professional in your field to mock-interview you.

8. Do you send thank-you notes after interviews? It's just common courtesy. Though a thank-you note won't make or break your job search, it might help you make a good impression.

9. Have you asked what you're doing wrong? After you receive a rejection from an employer, do you ask what you did wrong or what you could have done better? Granted, most employers won't give you a straight answer but occasionally you'll find a sympathetic person with whom you may have had good rapport in the interview. If only one person reveals something that can give you a more effective approach to your job search, it will have been well worth asking. If you are rejected, also be sure to let the employer know you're still interested in working for the company. That technique has paid off for many a job-seeker when the person the company hired didn't work out.

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