While the majority of job hunters feel most comfortable replying to advertised positions, there are those brave souls who will venture beyond and target companies where they would like to work even if the company is not currently advertising.

The tool of choice here is the broadcast or market letter. This brief, but powerful, one page-letter outlines your background & accomplishments. It's an introductory letter with a punch! Think of it as a piece of direct-mail advertising copy, and you are the product!

Keep in mind the majority of the responses you get will be rejections, but don't take them personally. Many employers simply aren't hiring. However, good market letters can draw 20%-30% more responses than resumes and cover letters.

In his book, Resume Power, Tom Washington suggests that less than 5% of all people looking for work use broadcast letters, but that they are the tool he most recommends to lead to appointments and potential interviews!

While the broadcast letter could really help you to stand out in your bid to secure employment, please note that it is not to be used for responding to advertised positions.

Go ahead and stretch your comfort zone! Reach out and be a proactive job seeker - you might just grab an employer's attention at just the right time!