Networking online

On Friday we'll get the latest snapshot of the unemployment industry. If you're one of the many people out there looking to land a job, here are some tips on how you can get an edge on the competition.

1) Get your resume to the top of the pile

Just applying on a company's Web site isn't going to get you anywhere: the percentage of online applications viewed by an actual human being ranges from 5 percent to 25 percent. A lot of companies use software programs to screen candidates, so, when you're writing your resume and cover letter, use the same phrases or keywords found in the job description, or reference a particular project that company has done to get it over that first hurdle.

2) Use Social Networking more effectively

And if you're using online social networking sites to get noticed, make sure you're using all the tools at your disposal. Don't just create a Linked-in profile: join groups, post comments, and actively update. On Facebook, diligently search for job listings in the Facebook Marketplace, and message hiring managers directly.

Finally, don't understimate applying to places where you know someone who can physically hand a resume to whoever's in charge of hiring. It's easy to get lost in the online shuffle- inboxes overflow- so getting a resume on a desk can go a long way towards scoring an interview.

3) Prepare for the Interview

Another great reason to apply to companies where you know someone is that you can grill them on the interview process

Luckily even if you don't know an insider, you can use online resources to get tips on specific companies. Glassdoor.com is a great site where you can get salary details for specific employers and interview tips from people who have actually sat in the hot seat.

For more of Gerri's Top Tips, watch CNN daily at 11:20 am Eastern Time.