A corporate recruiter tells why he says no-and how first-time job-hunters can get the yes.

A college grad has specific questions when trying to land the first job after school. How are just a few candidates chosen from a stack of hundreds of resumes? What exactly do recruiters want to hear in an interview? What are the common job-hunting mistakes students make time and time again? Confessions of a Recruiting Director gives the inside scoop on the entire hiring process- from a top recruiting director who's seen and heard it all-and delivers a specific, step-by-step approach to beating the odds.

Step 1: Resumes -how to pass the 15 Second Test

Step 2: Networking -how to use connections to get a job

Step 3: Cover Letters -why nine out of ten never get read

Step 4: Ace the Interview - the shocking truth about what recruiters want

Step 5: Thank-You Notes - making a lasting impression

Step 6: Follow Up -the fine line between persistence and stalking Plus: Real-life before-and-after resumes, cover letters, thank-you notes and the answers to ten necessary interview questions.