It's Your Career - Take Control!

Why Are You Here?

Before you begin looking for a new job you must understand, deep down inside, why. The answer is obvious if you were laid off or worked at a temporary job that ended. But if you are changing careers, determine what it is about your current career that no longer satisfies you. Write the answers down. Be specific, because you will want to avoid those factors in the future.

Consider the pros and cons of staying in your current career or leaving. Changing careers does not have to mean starting from scratch. You may be able to move laterally, improve your skills and advance to the next level until you reach a position where you are satisfied and fulfilled.

Create Your "Product Profile"

Your first step, once you understand why you are looking for a new job, is to write a profile of the "product" you will "sell" to potential employers. List your skills, values, interests, accomplishments and personal characteristics. Think about how your hobbies, education and athletic activities translate into employable skills, and add these abilities to your list. Describe your strengths and weaknesses honestly.

Write down the title of each job you...