For those looking for a job in a tough economy, sometimes all it takes is a little inside perspective about what employers are looking for to land that perfect job.

From the medical field to the fast food industry, a variety of businesses set up booths at a job fair sponsored by the Haywood County Veterans Council Friday to recruit new faces and tell them exactly what they need in an employee.

Among those employers was Kathi McClure, human resource director for Haywood County, who said there are currently five positions open for county jobs, and two more opening this week.

But the competition can be stiff.

“The application pool is much better now than it’s been in the past. Sometimes we’ll have about 90 people apply for one position,” she said.

There are, however, some key elements in the ...