What Do You Have in Common with Coca-Cola, the iPhone and Paris Hilton?

by Dan Schawbel, Author of "Me 2.0: Build a Powerful Brand to Achieve Career Success"

Whether you're a recent college graduate or an experienced veteran, these numbers are intimidating, but you can't lose hope. A recent Careerbuilder.com survey states that 41 percent of workers who were laid off from full-time jobs found a new full-time position.

The jobs are out there, but the way in which you search, discover, apply and interview for these positions has changed over the past few years. The best way to get a job now is by building your own personal brand, becoming known for a specific expertise and then networking your way into your desired job -- not just one that will pay your bills.

Americans love brands and well-known brands can command premium prices, more respect and have greater opportunities than competitors. Just like Coca Cola, the iPhone and Paris Hilton, you are also a brand and can become a rock star in your industry.