In order to get productive leads (operative word being productive), it is necessary to be clear about what you are qualified to do and actually competitive for in this market. Using casual language to explain what you want or need, typically leads to wild goose chases and lots of tail chasing.

People have called it "optimism" when they speak of their "dream" job to others. My position is, when you are unemployed in a market like this and you oversell yourself, it is "fantasy", not optimism. Most people truly want to help, but they can't if you haven't been honest with yourself first.

Describing the role you aspire to obtain, rather than describing what is really likely and possible, only delays your moving forward. There is much less likelihood of rejection if you consider the low hanging fruit, and it could be your chance to get yourself headed in the right direction. To be clear: low hanging doesn't mean rotten - it means within your reach.

If you have been unemployed for longer than you like, then it is time to make a change in your thinking and your strategy (or lack thereof) :

Get real. Stop your wishful thinking and take action where you really can make a difference.

Do your homework. Be aware of what employers are really asking for when they post job descriptions.

Know your competition. Be aware of what you are up against and what it will require to be considered a competitive candidate.

Set goals. Being real doesn't mean giving up or going in a ditch. Setting goals for getting to where you really want to be, with a plan to get there, helps ensure that you will stay on track.

You have to get off the bench first. Once you get back on track, you can then use your optimism to move you forward.

What's your next move?