While the U.S. Department of Labor reports approximately five per cent of people acquire jobs in a "traditional" way - through an ad or notice - Syrtash notes that most jobs are obtained through networking and referrals.

1. Put your feelers out. You can do this effectively by mentioning what you are looking for into every conversation. In many cases, the people you know the least will help you the most and have connections to opportunities your friends and family may not know about.

2. Tell people what you're interested in doing, but don't spend a lot of time talking about yourself. Make sure to ask other people questions about how they ended up where they are or if they have advice to share with you.

3.  When someone has made the time to help you in your job search and/or meet with you to discuss an opportunity, always follow up with a thank you card or e-mail. If you would like to keep the relationship going, you may want to send holiday cards periodically.

1. It's important to find a job you might like and then set up an informational interview. Syrtash says this is valuable advice because the person you meet with may not have an opportunity for you, but he or she may put you in touch with somebody who does or even remember you later when a new position opens up.

2. Find a connection rather than cold calling - even if it's a friend's aunt - any personal connection helps you stand out from the other applicants. If you have to apply "cold," print your resume on non-white paper. You have to do whatever you can to stand out from the rest.

3. During the interview, stay enthusiastic, but don't mention you want to run the company one day or you see this job as your launching pad to something bigger.

4. Always follow up with a thank you note - a card is better than e-mail. Either way, make sure to send something to acknowledge the time put aside to meet with you.

5. Be open-minded. Your first job may not be your dream job, but with the right attitude and commitment it may lead to another fantastic opportunity in the company or somewhere else.

1. Write out your "must have"/ "can't stand" list. It can be as silly as wanting a partner to sing in tune to something as serious as feeling you need to be with someone of the same faith. Whatever is important to you, make a list of ten "must-haves" and "can't-stands" in a potential mate.

2. "Pick up" singles for friendship. One issue that singles face is that they feel like the minority amongst their good friends who may have coupled off. By meeting other singles at parties, book clubs, the gym or other social outings, you're more likely to enjoy your singlehood.

4. Believe in quantity to find quality. Sign up for a few months of online dating. For many adults it may be hard to get over the fact that it's not as romantic to meet a person this way. There's a good chance you'll make a connection with somebody; but even if you don't, you're practicing your dating muscle and think of all the funny stories to share with others!

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