A 'multi-faceted' job search approach means using multiple methods of job hunting. It's actually a problem solving technique, using multiple methodologies. The idea is to have several options, not just one, to give yourself more flexibility in approaching the problem. In job seeking, just applying for jobs, for example, would be a single method.

The usual grind of job seeking is just to apply for jobs and see what happens. As all job seekers can testify, it leaves a lot to be desired as a method. It's also the method which is seen as unavoidable by job seekers. The result is that 1000 people go for one job, and 999 waste their time.

A few other options:

• Cold canvassing
• Going for ranges of different jobs
• Contracting
• Targeting employers with aggressive job hunting techniques
• Self employment
• 'Buying' a job, buying a business
• 'Creating' a job, starting a buy-and-sell job on ebay, etc.

If this looks like a smorgasbord of quality and taste, it is. Not all methods suit all people, so your multi-faceted job search approach has to be tailored to yourself. Theory and practice can be very different, so let us say now you must work on viable options.

Cold canvassing

Works for people with a strong personal presence; the good salespeople. Does not work for the shy or those lacking confidence

Going for ranges of different jobs

Particularly good for people who are multi-skilled. Not good for people whose work history is specialized, or are out of their depth in jobs where they're partially skilled.

Contracting

Contracting can be a life saver for those with good portable skills. It will deliver, and you can build up a very good CV in the process. Anyone who doesn't know the contract job environment, however, needs to learn this different employment environment.

Self employment

This can be a sideline, or a full-time job. This also works as a job search on various levels, getting different forms of employment. You can even have multiple jobs. This is best for the individualists.

'Buying' a job, like buying a business

This one comes with 'look out!' written all over it. You must know your way around any business you buy. It's a great way of going broke, otherwise. It does give you a job, but also gives you some new risks. You're advised to take a basic business course, which is another employment asset for going for jobs.

'Creating' a job, like starting a buy-and-sell job on ebay

This is more useful than it looks. There's an employment market for experienced ebay sellers as full-time employees. Some do extremely well, and you get experience as well as pay. However, don't expect to become an Internet entrepreneur. Successful sellers and buyers in this field are the real experts, and not everyone makes it.