This is a time of massive uncertainty in the global economy with the credit crunch and global recession.

Now is therefore the right time to review your career plan or, if you don't have one, to put a plan together. This introductory article is the first of a 4 part series on how to find a new job.

However good you find your present employer, no one has a job for life any more. Even if you are content where you are, it’s always sensible to try to plan where your career is heading and what you want to do next.  We can all benefit from some job hunting tips.

Part of that forward planning should include the possibility of a change of employer in the near future. Bear in mind that, while some career changes may be planned, others are thrust upon us by external circumstances.

Career planning means first mapping out roughly what you would like to do over the next few years. Once you’ve decided that, then what is needed to make this happen? Perhaps a move within your existing organisation is possible? Some training may help.

If the training you need isn’t available through your existing employer then there is the option of either funding your own training or moving to an employer prepared to offer the training you need. You may decide you wish to progress into a different but related area of employment.

You may even choose to make a more radical change and apply your existing knowledge and skills in a different sphere such as education or training. First research the type of post you are interested in. Find out what additional qualifications may be required and if you would be satisfied with the terms and conditions of the new post.

Be aware of the job market - who is employing and the likely demand for your skills. For example the current economic climate is having a negative impact on businesses in real estate, home building, banking, finance and retail. Other industries are weathering the storm much better. For example, new technology companies and those involved with commodities, such as mining companies.

Talk to people you know in your industry. Networking can be an efficient way of finding new opportunities. Use of social networking sites can help here particularly those geared more to business such as LINKEDIN.COM

Trade shows can be a good source of information and also trade publications. There are lots of employment agencies on the web. You can post a CV with most agencies on their site and they will contact you when a suitable vacancy appears. It is normal practice for the hiring employer to pay the agency so this service is usually free to job hunters.

So what can you do to stay ahead of the game?

• Regularly dust off your resume or CV and bring it up to date (like a suitcase ready packed for an emergency). It may be useful to have more than one resume to reflect your different skill sets.
• Try to be aware of your market value and how much salary you should ask for.
• Think about other benefits you require (training, pension, health insurance etc.).
• Be aware of your strengths and weaknesses and what you really want - Follow your heart is an old cliché but still true. Seek a job you will really enjoy.
• Moving jobs presents a good opportunity to negotiate some new training.
• Be ready to accept change - Those who adapt well to change will do better in the current climate.
• Keep up with new technology.
• Don't forget to include self-employment in your options.
• Keep up to date with job hunting tips
  

If you do find yourself looking for a new post then there are three key steps to success:

1. Find the vacancy - Identify a company with a vacancy that interests you
2. Make the shortlist - Make sure you stand out from the pile of applications
3. Land the job - Make sure you are the employer’s first choice at the interview

Click on the links above to read articles on each topic.

In today’s turbulent business climate we all need to be ready to cope with and react to change. Ideally the best opportunities will lie with our present employer but we also need to know how to find a new job. Sometimes, whether we like it or not, It’s Time To Move On.