Get real about where you are looking for work vs. how they are looking for your resume.
So much today is digital, but nothing beats someone ambitious enough to come looking for work. The problem is that, with so many people out of work, they are turning employee prospects away before ever looking at their resume. But, on the chance that someone quit at 3pm and you showed up at 4pm ready to work... that could sway a decision.
These days, people are commodities. If you think about shopping for cleaners, you get the idea. The whole aisle is filled with them... which one will you choose? You could read all the labels (and go green), you could pick up the least expensive brand, or you could pick out the one that is most effective. How you pick is personal. So is looking for an employee. So, if a manager wants someone cheap, he/she may pass on someone experienced. This is the college intern's greatest asset. But, when things start getting "bad" they call for the experience in a consultant.
A particular issue with people as commodities, the employers can reject you if you don't live in the local area and they have a heart to bless the people of their great city. That leave you waiting in line.
The best "all around"solution is to pick up the phone and make contact. It's like being there, but without the traveling. Know who is looking for your resume and get it to them FAST. This may mean having a couple of resumes around that demonstrate your strengths in specific skill areas. Finally, be ready to travel to your employer's destination for the interview. All too often, employers press the buttons of the recruiters to get answers NOW but then don't make decisions for days, or weeks. You want to be poised to get heard NOW.
Hope this helps. For good job leads, check out
http://Hired911.com