I've seen a number of posts over the last couple of weeks about how to get a job programming or other advice. I thought it might be a decent idea to start a general advice thread on that subject. So this is a chance to share your thoughts, advice, and experiences on landing a job. What went right? Just as good, what went wrong?

First thing I have is taken from Earth's entry in THHGTTG: Don't Panic!
Seriously... I've been in that spot - twice, one day I'm gainfully employed, the next day I'm carrying home a box of stuff from my desk.

The second piece of advice I'd offer - Don't give up. It may take some time. Both times I was laid off, I went 6-8 weeks between jobs. That's an eternity when you've got nothing else to do.

Don't flat out lie on your resume/CV - Yes everyone lies on theirs, but if you don't have experience with something, don't put it on there. If you do have experience with something, even if it was basic training, or exposure, DO put it... but make sure it's low on the list. Corollary - if you find yourself getting the wrong offers/interviews, don't be afraid to take somethingt off or adjust your CV. Back in the day, I had BizTalk on my list of things, because I had had some small training in it and used it as an endpoint for a project... When I then found myself getting all kinds of requests from companies looking for a BizTalk programmer, I had to take it off. Now it's only mentioned in the project summary section of my CV.

Be honest. You may be able to BS your way past the HR round... but at some point you're likely to run up against the guy you have to work with or for.

Degrees and certs are great but experience is king. I recently interviewed someone that, despite having a recent degree, he learned more in code camps and some of the volunteer things he'd been doing in the summer and off-campus. He's been with us nearly 6 months and is working out fine.

---

What other advice do others have?

-tg