The increasing number of layoffs in the current economy has thrust many into the position of personal marketers -- where your new "job" is actually marketing yourself.

In one of the most competitive job markets in decades, millions of people are struggling to differentiate themselves from other job seekers. In such a position, understanding some of the basic principles of sales and business marketing may help in personal marketing.

Here are a seven strategies that might help improve your chances of landing another job, freelance engagement or temporary position.

1.Everyone is a Referral Source. Before you can have an interview, you've got to get an appointment.

The first rule of marketing is that a lead can come from anywhere. When my grandfather came the United States, he couldn't speak English, so a friend set him up selling trinkets, door-to-door, with the following advice: "When someone comes to the door, hold up one of your trinkets and say, 'Ten Cents.' They'll either give you a dime or slam the door in your face. But, whatever you do, don't miss a door."

This is the time to re-establish relationships and extend your network. You never know where the lead will lead you. And don't miss a door.

2.Remember the Rules of Engagement. Don't forget the basics: Arrive on time, dress appropriately, get a haircut, have a firm handshake and write a follow-up note.

In these times of Internet job searches, e-mails and Twitter, make sure you maintain basic human contact. E-mails can be deleted and quickly forgotten, but a handwritten note really makes an impression.

3. Sell Solutions, Not Capabilities. One of the core principles of marketing is that all products and services are solutions to some problem. The same can be said for an employment opportunity.

When you're thinking about marketing yourself, think first about what problems you can solve, not just what your skills are. And ask about (or find out) what problems people have before you start to talk.

4. Prepare. Get to know about the company, people or market before the interview, either through a Web search or through the person who referred you. Even a little background can help in adapting your approach.

Potential employers like people who already know something about their company, products or services.

5. Flexibility. Most are looking to replace what they had ... a steady job with a paycheck, health benefits and a week or more of vacation. I doubt anyone still expects to find another job in the same field with equal or greater pay. Expect to downsize your lifestyle by cutting unnecessary expense.

But it's also important to remember that what you're really trying to replace is an income. A full-time job is one way to do that, but not the only way. Freelance or temporary assignments may be a first step toward a longer-term commitment, and should be considered when you're looking.

6. Positioning Beyond the Job. In this economy, another option is to position yourself as an independent contractor, consultant, or freelancer. Apart from a greater likelihood of being seen as a solution rather than a risk, once you've developed a relationship with potential employer through a project or temporary engagement, you're in a much better position to be considered for additional projects or long-term employment.

Here are some basics of positioning for a freelance or temporary position:

• Describe Your Services. Not a resume, which is a summary of past experience. A "Description of Services" is a one-page document that defines how you solve certain kinds of problems. You can always attach a resume.

• Get a Business Card. Even if it's just your name with an invented title, a business card connotes professionalism and the rhetorical position of independence.

• Announcements. Make people you know aware of your new role with a letter (or even a brochure) and write a brief personal note on the bottom suggesting a meeting.

7. Set up Another Meeting. If possible, see the first meeting with a potential employer or freelance opportunity as just that: a first step.

Even if it's to review a proposal, meet others on the team or bring additional material, try to make one of your goals another meeting.