Executives were asked to identify the most unique strategies applicants have used to stand out from the crowd.  The results show that communicating your ingenuity, resourcefulness and creativity to potential employers can give you a leg up -- or set you back a few steps.

The national poll includes responses from 150 senior executives -- including those from human resources, finance and marketing departments -- with the nation's 1,000 largest companies.  It was conducted by an independent research firm and developed by Accountemps, a specialized staffing service for temporary accounting, finance and bookkeeping professionals.

Those surveyed were asked, "What is the most unusual thing you have seen or heard of a job candidate doing to 'stand out from the crowd'?"  Sample responses included:

• "A job seeker sent a shoe with his resume and a note saying, 'I just want to get my foot in the door.'"
• "One candidate came in barefoot."
• "A job seeker included an 8-by-10 inch beauty-pageant photo of herself."
• "A candidate put confetti in the resume package, which made a huge mess."
• "One woman brought a poodle to the interview because she didn’t want to leave it in the car."
• "An applicant sent his resume on a bottle of alcohol to the company's CEO."
• "All of the important words were circled on the resume."
• "Someone sent a packet of coffee with a note that said, 'Have a coffee on me.'"
• "I was sent a piece of gum with the resume and asked to 'chew on the facts.'"
• "An applicant came in dressed as a clown -- in a colorful, satin clown suit with red hair, a bright-red nose and big shoes."
• "We received a giant cookie with writing on the package that said, 'I’d like to be a chip in your cookie.'"

"In today’s competitive employment market, candidates feel increasing pressure to distinguish themselves," said Max Messmer, chairman of Accountemps and author of Job Hunting For Dummies (John Wiley & Sons, Inc.). "While nontraditional methods can help candidates get noticed, job seekers should remain professional at all times and carefully tailor their approach to the individual company or industry."

Which job-hunting tactics are appropriate when looking to distinguish yourself from other applicants? According to Messmer, the classic approach is still the best: Develop a concise and targeted resume that details your successes in previous roles and demonstrates the types of contributions you can make if hired.

Messmer points out that there is no substitute for initiative and professionalism, and offers the following suggestions:

Review the job description and highlight in your resume and cover letter those aspects of your background that make you the best fit.

• Research the company prior to the interview and ask focused and intelligent questions that showcase your knowledge.
• Cite skills used in volunteer activities outside of work.
• Take notes during the interview to demonstrate your attentiveness.
• Send a thank-you card or e-mail immediately after meeting with a hiring manager.
• Become involved with a professional or industry association.