When reviewing newspaper ads, often the best ad is an old ad. An ad that is two, three, or even four months old may provide your best opportunity for positive exposure. Remember, companies often run ads to replace employees who have left the company. Employees who have left were no longer entry level when they left (even if they began as entry level). They were experienced employees, so the company wants to replace them with other experienced workers. That is why you rarely (if ever) see newspaper ads for entry level positions.

Old classified ads are an excellent source of employer information.

So if after two or three months the company is still unsuccessful in replacing the person with an experienced person in the field, it may be time for the company to reconsider how it will fill the position. Entry level may be under consideration for the very first time in the process. Since virtually no one is still looking at the old ads, your competition is next to nil.

Do not approach the company saying you are responding to the ad from several months ago. But do target your resume and cover letter toward summarizing your qualifications for filling the particular job. State that you heard that there might be a need for a _____ and that you will soon be available. If the position is still open and they are considering other levels, you may have an entry point.

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