Advice From Job Expert Steve Viscusi

June 25 -- As 2003 college graduates head out with résumés in hand, they are walking into the worst job market in 20 years.

As such, it is no time for common mistakes, such as not making eye contact during the interview or bluffing on an answer to a question.

Executive headhunter Steve Viscusi, host of the nationally syndicated radio show On the Job With Steve Viscusi, and author of On The Job: How to Make It in the Real World of Work (Crown: Three Rivers Press) provides answers to some common questions.

QUESTION: I have a question about getting past the older-than-college look during an interview. I have been unemployed since April 1. I have sent well over 100 job interests either by e-mail, fax, and in person and have had about 10 interviews.

During phone interviews, the interviewer is pleasant and uplifting. The problem comes when I meet prospective employers in person. I get the most amazing standoffish responses. "Well, we'll call you if we have something … " sort of response.

I am clearly not a college graduate. I am in my mid-30s and may have sometimes too much work experience. Could it be my resume? I have taken interviewing classes and know the do's and don'ts of apparel, eye contact, accessories, and the famous trick questions to an interview. Or is it this town with its unbelievably high unemployment rate? I'm in El Paso, Texas. I really would rather not move. Help!

—El Paso

VISCUSI: It's the reality of the economy. Don't assume it is you. But don't overlook the idea that it could be. Unemployment is simply very high. Companies want CHEAP workers at every level. Don't scare them with high salary expectations. That is really all it comes down to. By the way, sending out 100 résumés seems like a lot, but it is nothing. Make 300 résumés your goal. That's right 300! Don't be pre-occupied with age, degree, things like that. OK, get off-line and start sending those résumés!

QUESTION: I am a 27-year-old graphic designer and I have done some freelance work while going to school, but I've never worked in a full-time advertising agency or design firm. How do I respond to ads or job opportunities that want three to five years of experience? Do they really want this much experience? Will they not train?—Karen

VISCUSI: They will accept less experience (in terms of years) if you have done some work, even part-time on the "type" of account they have (ex. cosmetics, food, whatever). Keep applying. Don't expect "training," but explain you are a fast learner. Visit my Web site at www.viscusigroup.com for more information on this industry. But also don't be afraid to keep "temping." It is part of the norm in your field and can eventually lead to something permanent.

QUESTION: I am a 49-year-old old female, out of work for over a year, making a career change. I have no college degree, but approximately 35 years of work experience. I have two kids in college and can't afford to go back to school. The job market seems to favor young adults. I'm not sure what I'd like to do, but feel now that I have to take anything. What fields/professions would be good for me?—Cheryl , Prairie Village, Kan.

VISCUSI: Hmmmm … in Prairie Village, Kan. Go to the local paper and see who is hiring. Don't worry about the degree, but usually "retail" or "food service" have the best hours for "returning-to-work moms." Do you have any clerical skills? Thirty-five years of work experience is a lot, and valued more than you may think. Just be flexible with the money.