Help Wanted?

Linux User Groups are the number one starting point for Linux pros looking for a job because group members know of positions and possibilities, some of which may not be posted on internet job boards such as Dice.com and Monster.com (the number two source, generally). Here's what else Linux seekers have found works:

• Check the arrogance and "how smart you are" attitude at door. Programming professionals think employers should hire them just for sheer brilliance, the industry consultants and observers find. This doesn't sell with today's employers, who have an abundance of candidates.

• Match your interviewer's level in the conversation. It's easy to "talk techie" with a fellow programmer, but such discussion doesn't fly with top management or the newly-hired young woman in human resources, who makes the first contact.

• Quantify the work you've done in action-results statements and share those with the interviewer. Bring examples of your programming work to the interview.

• People network. Talk to everyone about your job situation.

• Consider starting (or having) a side business to keep yourself afloat financially, if necessary. (One Linux programmer rents out bouncing air toys for children's parties!)