By Megan Martin

If you're in the market for a new career in finance and accounting, you may be in luck.

“It's a great market for candidates right now--companies are seeking strong candidates in the accounting and finance world: tax, audit, accounting and finance,” says Ken Heisler, Director of SALO Search.

An increase in job openings, especially among entry-level positions, has resulted in college graduates receiving a record number of multiple offers--as well as higher salaries--as companies compete for top talent.

Is there a magic formula for receiving multiple offers? Is it the luck of the draw or will it require you to quit your day job to perform hours of endless research and resume mailing?

With a few hints and a little planning, it could be easier than you think.

1. CONDUCT A SMART SEARCH

Discover what's out there and what you want. The more contacts you make during your search, the better.

Explore Your Options

Even if you're unsure of the exact direction for your job hunt, open up as many options as possible by conducting a diverse search. Research corporate websites, job boards and newspapers for current openings. Network with recruiters and former work associates.

Go through your address book and business cards—you'll be surprised by the number of contacts you find, as well as the contacts they'll put you in touch with.

Renovate Your Resume

Once you've decided on several positions to apply for, get to work on your resume and cover letters. While it may be tempting to send a “generic” resume or cover letter to as many companies as possible, it's far more effective to customize them to each individual position and company.

Clearly demonstrate how your experience fills the employers' requirements,” says Laura Morsch in her careerbuilder.com article “10 Things That Will Get You Hired.”

Consider a Recruiter

Working with a recruiter is a great way to make new contacts, get a sense of the market and get a better idea of a company's culture. Additionally, many companies go directly to recruiters to find candidates for certain key positions rather than post or advertise them. Recruiters can save you valuable time by connecting you with opportunities that better match your career goals. Further, a successful recruiter can market your profile to a target company hiring manager -- often creating an opportunity.

Recruiters can help prevent your resume from falling between the cracks. “They'll get you to the person you need to talk to,” says Heisler. “You won't be just another resume in the pile.”

When working with a recruiter, be honest about what you want and don't want. Make sure they understand your background so they can best position and market your talents.

2. ACE THE INTERVIEW

You've heard it before because it's true. The interview is the most important part of the hiring process and can make or break getting an offer.

Prepare Yourself

Before an interview, familiarize yourself with the organization—the job, the company, their market and their executives. Visiting a firm's website offers valuable information which can be useful during the interview process. Additionally, internet searches can locate recent articles and press releases about the company.

“You have to be able to sell yourself,” says Heisler. “A first impression is everything. You have to understand your accomplishments and be able to speak concisely about them and give concrete examples.”

If you've done your research and have a good understanding of the company going into the interview, you'll be able to use the information you've discovered to illustrate why you're the superior candidate for the position.

Make a Strong Impression

If you want to impress the hiring manager, there is a lot to take into consideration. Don't underestimate the importance of “the little things” like attire and body language. Both should show that you are prepared and take the interview seriously. Greet the interviewer with a firm handshake and a smile.

After researching and discussing with your recruiter about what the company's needs, come up with several examples that show you will be a good match. Choose flexible examples that could be applied to a variety of scenarios.

Don't dodge difficult questions or use a generic answer--even if it means admitting a weakness. The interviewer will respect your honesty, especially if you can show you are acting to improve upon weaknesses.

It's okay to take control of the situation—determine what “image” of yourself you want to convey, and go from there to take charge of how the interviewer sees you by presenting your greatest strengths.

Express Yourself

If you've wrapped up a strong interview and feel the company is a great fit, don't hold back--let the hiring manager know you want the job.

Showing immediate interest can be attractive to companies, especially in the current competitive market. If they like you, your enthusiasm may help facilitate the hiring process and give you an edge over competitors who have not made their intentions known.

As soon as possible after the interview, send a brief note or email thanking the hiring manager. This will make sure you remain fresh in their mind.

3. IF YOU'VE GOT IT, FLAUNT IT

What's the best way to get offers rolling in? Once you've received one, notify other companies you're currently interviewing with. It's good etiquette and can even increase your appeal.

While there may be no secret recipe for bringing in multiple offers, with a market that is ripe for success and a few pieces of advice, your odds can't help but improve.

Megan Martin is a writer based in Chicago. She can be reached at Megan.M@BeTuitive.com.