Don't have much time right now but here are a few tips for all job hunters from someone who's been in the business for 20 years.
Before you start the process review your situation and decide on the type of job you feel best suited for. Take account of any aspects you wish to avoid.
Get a decent CV put together by someone who specialises in doing these things (NOT just someone who knows how to type or a company which offers to produce one the same day after a 15 minute chat on the phone). The CV should be designed to suit the type of job being applied for - not just a general list of personal/educational details and a list of previous jobs. Producing such a document is a complex task and takes time/effort so avoid anyone who claims to be able to do this quickly without much input from you.
You will often hear people claiming that CV's should only be 1 or 2 pages long - well what on earth does that mean? You can probably print the Bible on 2 pages of A4 if you use a small enough font
Stick to a crisp, plain font 10-12 pitch, avoid gimmicky touches but do selectively bullet-point those areas which are of special merit such as relevant skills/expertise/qualifications or indeed successes/achievements you've had. Don't overuse bulleting though - this is a very common mistake which simply negates the effect of the technique. Given that each interviewer will have his/her own way of reviewing CV's the most important element is to make sure the reader can simply scan the document, quickly get a feel that you are a serious candidate and then dip in/out to find the information they want, their eyes being met in the process by relevant, interesting and positive information which addresses their needs. Clarity and a logical layout are very important but if you've done a good job of targeting the CV and stuck to what's most interesting you'll find it'll determine it's own length and will be a pleasure for any interviewer to read.
Produce a short but positive supporting cover letter which introduces you, links nicely to key areas of the CV and alludes to the reasoning behind your application. Appear to be applying a highly selective approach to this matter.
Cut down the number of applications you make - less is more! Concentrate on those who really can offer what you are looking for. Don't mailshot - this is just sloppy. It doesn't work, can be very disheartening and is a major source of frustration for recruiters.
Research the companies and posts you apply for. Make sure this comes across in your cover letter. Note - you can't do this properly if you are firing off dozens of applications every week.
Prepare thoroughly for all interviews - show the interviewers how professional and thorough you have been.
Be positive and be prepared to sell yourself both in your CV and at interview. Interviews are not a time for hiding your light. Present relevant skills/experience confidently and draw from other areas of knowledge you have which may not be of direct relevance but are nonetheless useful.
Depending on the type of post in question, be prepared for tough questioning and harsh comments. These are techniques to test your self belief - rise to them and stay calm.
Remember something important: If you have done all of the above and secured an interview then no matter what negative impressions the interviewers may give you regarding your age, qualifications, experience etc., they liked you enough to spend their valuable time on you so keep cool and stay on track!
Apologies for doing this on the hoof but I'm having one of those days
Good luck anyway!