Read Between the Lines. Since classified advertisements charge by the word or line, often the information is abbreviated or sketchy. Many advertisements are placed by employment agencies. As with an advertisement for an apartment or any other product, you might discover that the job really doesn't exist. The agency just wanted to get you into their office.

Reply Appropriately. The advertisements are usually very specific as to how you should reply. If the advertiser writes "send a resume and don't call," then send a resume and don't call. The advertisers have to deal with hundreds of replies. Don't annoy them. A resume with a short covering letter describing your general qualities in five or six sentences will be enough. You may be tempted to squeeze as much information about yourself in the letter and resume as you can. Don't. Someone who has to read hundreds of these resumes and letters will not want to read your autobiography. Save all that for the interview. And save your energy for applying for more jobs. Never put too much faith in any one position until you actually have an offer.

Make Your Reply Perfect. All correspondence should be perfectly typed, preferably on stationery (letter and envelopes) imprinted with your return address. This looks more professional. Both resume and cover letter should have your telephone number on them. Never hand-write an envelope. If you can't type, hire a typist, and insist on perfect work.

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