The International Network of Travel Directors (INTD) job board was established to make applying to meeting jobs easier and more efficient. However, when it comes to creating a fruitful online job search, successful seekers can follow these ten guidelines.

1. If you build it, they can come.

Instead of simply posting your profile on INTD’s site, take it one step further and design an easily-navigable Web site or online portfolio where recruiters can view your body of work, read about your goals and obtain contact information. Link your site’s URL address to your INTD profile.

2. Check yourself to make sure you haven't wrecked yourself.

Google your name to see what comes up - and what companies will see if they do the same. If you don't like what you find, it's time to do damage control. Check Yahoo and other search engines, too.

3. Stay focused.

Only apply to jobs for which you are qualified or meet the stated criteria. While you may be willing to apply to any job out there in hopes that the company will make an exception based on your skills, companies are more turned off when they are bombarded with applicants who do not meet the job description.

4. Obtain a professional headshot.

Adding a professional and current headshot to your online profile is imperative. It is not about being glamorous. Today, companies want to know you have the ability to present yourself in a professional manner. Using a candid photo from which your friends have been cut out is not recommended. Go to outlets such as Target and Wal-Mart for an inexpensive photo session and request a digital copy.

5. Update your profile and resume.

Log in to your INTD profile often and be sure to update your recent projects and references. The great thing about being an INTD member is your profile is 100% secure. Only Planner members may access your information after posting a job. Your profile shows the date you last logged into your account.

6. Utilize job alerts.

INTD’s job board allows you to sign up to receive e-mail alerts about newly available jobs that match your membership type. Go one step further and subscribe to the RSS feed from the job board to appear on your customized Internet homepage or your news-reader software.

7. Get connected.

How many times have you been told it's not what you know, but who you know? Thanks to professional networking sites like Facebook, LinkedIn.com and INTD, travel directors no longer have to rely on word of mouth referrals. These sites provide access to hundreds of industry professionals and allow you to connect with people you know, the people they know, and so forth.

8. Participate in forums.

Join meeting industry forums and participate on their discussion and make sure to include your signature. INTD’s message board and Linkedin Group is a great way to network with fellow members. Just be sure to avoid spamming or soliciting these forums.

9. Write articles.

Want to spread the word about your personal expertise? Submit an article on a topic you are passionate about to industry sites and INTD. This is a great way to increase your exposure.

10. Be willing to negotiate.

Last but not least, be willing to negotiate your compensation. Companies are on extremely tight budgets these days, and onsite staffing costs are being highly scrutinized. If you can afford to accept a project that may be lower than your normal rate, do so with enthusiasm and appreciation of the opportunity, especially if the project is for a company with which you have never partnered previously. Who knows where this opportunity may lead?

With over a decade of experience as a professional meeting planner, Alison has managed the complete planning and execution of domestic and international meetings and incentive programs ranging from ten to 2,000 participants. Throughout her extensive career, Alison has worked closely with numerous Fortune 500 corporations within an array of industries ranging from wine and spirits, technology, real estate, automobile, retail and financial. In 2008, Alison launched the International Network of Travel Directors, an online network dedicated to connecting freelance travel directors with meeting planners for the purpose of increasing professional development and providing freelance opportunities.

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