1. Rely on past achievements.  Employers beat a path to the doors of only those who have made newsworthy contributions to the industry.  In order to gain the greatest benefit from past work experience, carefully organize your achievements and think about the technical aspects and theories and how you implemented them to accomplish your goals.

2. Don't assume your resume will be read.  Most managers give minimal attention to the written word, looking instead for those "buzz" words that stand out as a possible solution to their immediate problem. If you instead, design your resume as though it were a marketing tool, your success ratio will be greatly enhanced.  If possible, the content should take no more than two pages, and should be professionally designed, using either a resume service or available "wizard" for crafting.  Print it on good quality white paper, and readable font size no less than 10 pt.  Once again, an experienced recruiter can give you feedback on your resume's appearance and its readability.

3. References count!  References from former employers and peers are almost always checked and often via indirect methods.  Over the years, managers and senior engineers build strong, wide networks that allow them to "back door" reference most potential candidates.  Be sure to contact all your references and alert them to possible calls.  Asking them what they will say about you will give them a chance to think through responses before being interrogated by your potential boss.

4. Know yourself.  During the interview, speaking about your career in vague terms will only make you seem unsure.  Know who you are, both strengths and shortcomings, what organizations you have been affiliated with and the dates, and what you accomplished (quantitatively or qualitatively) in those situations.

5. Don't burn your bridges!  Handle each interview as if this were the opportunity of a lifetime. You can always reject an offer, but there is no way to change a first impression.

6. ALWAYS follow up a 1st interview with a "thank you" email.  Nothing will do more to dampen the outcome of a great interview than forgetting to send a follow-up "thank you" letter.  It's the best way to reiterate your interest in a job.  If written properly, it will also reinforce your potential value as a candidate.  Here are some sample "Thank You" letters.

IMPORTANT:  Before you send your email, be sure to check it for spelling and punctuation errors. 

7. Salary Negotiation.  Don't offer information about what you think you deserve or want.  If asked, give only the facts: current salary, date of last review and if asked what you expect, "I'm sure you would make me a fair offer."  It is unlikely that you would be able to "name" the correct salary and could leave yourself open to messy negotiation, either coming in too low, or so high they lose interest.  A seasoned recruiter will get you the best possible offer and keep you from seeming either naïve or over expectant.