Working with a job search buddy can offer support, perspective and the accountability that many job seekers need especially when they're facing a lengthy job hunt.  But how can job seekers make a buddy system work to their advantage? Let's take a look at a few tips:

1. The key to an effective job search buddy system is compatibility and trust.  Finding someone who you can get along with and with whom you feel comfortable sharing your job search experience is the cornerstone of success for the buddy system.
2. When looking for a job search buddy, you need to find someone in the same industry, with similar values and goals.  You can leverage each other's knowledge, experiences and contacts for your collective benefit.  The only caveat is that you may not want someone who is looking for the exact same type of position or you might face competition or even professional jealousy which can taint and destroy any buddy system.
3. Once you find a compatible buddy, pick a mutually convenient time and day to meet each week to discuss your job search progress and strategies.  Make sure that the meetings are not used to commiserate about how "awful" the job market is, instead focus on solutions.
4. Once you begin working with your job search buddy, you both should create a list of goals and tasks to which you must remain accountable. For example, if you say you will send out three resumes and cover letters a week, your buddy will be responsible for making sure you actually do it.
5. You and your job search buddy should attend networking events together. If there is a list of attendees, before you arrive, decide which attendees each of you will target. At the end of the networking event or at your next buddy meeting, share information you learned from the event with your buddy. For example, if you found out that a new hiring manager started at a particular firm, let your buddy know about it.