A: Good employers are generally looking for good staff - not too-good staff!

You might benefit from stepping down a bit; don't present an "I am the greatest" image to prospective employers.

You can't possibly know that you are the best applicant for a job if you don't know all the other applicants. Have a fresh look at how you are applying for jobs and presenting yourself at interviews.

Listening more and approaching jobs without assuming you already have them might just help at your next interview.

Are you tired of being out of work long-term?

1 It's not always easy to get a good job but it's never impossible either.
2 Think about what you want. Use your imagination. Chase dreams but make sure you apply common sense to give dreams a real chance.
3 Think about what you need to do to get what you really want. Be honest with yourself. Consider what you can control - and what you can't.
4 Talk to people. Read and ask questions about the job you want. It's called research and it makes a big difference.
5 Grab every opportunity to learn. If you find a relevant course of study to add to your skills, or give you new skills, do it.
6 Don't become set on one career choice. Always consider options.
7 Don't rely on one job advertisement or one job interview - competition means you're not the only one looking for a good job.
8 Don't underestimate yourself. You have skills and qualities that other people don't have.
9 Don't ever give up on yourself. There is always another job, another interview. If you stop trying, you will miss opportunities. No matter how hard it all seems, don't ever quit.

If you have a question for Dr Work, email doctorwork@mycareer.com.au. Please note that due to the high volume of questions received, not all emails can be answered personally.