When you decide to take your next career step, write out your personal and professional goals to see if they align. The following questions can help you clarify your objectives:

• What does your ideal job look like?
• What do you like about your current job?
• What’s missing?
• What assets will you bring to a new company?

After you have answered these questions, 
take the following steps:

• Career management. Take control of your career by taking the steps necessary to achieve your objectives.
  • Size of company that you are most comfortable in
  • List several companies that have what you are looking for
  • Are you willing to relocate (be specific)
  • Preferred working environment
  • Is there anything that would keep you from resigning tomorrow
• Support. Be sure that your family endorses your choices. Remember…you will want to move fast when an offer is tendered.
• Networking. Your career network should include friends, current and former colleagues, vendors, industry contacts and recruiters.
• Skills. Today’s economic environment is constantly changing. Make sure your skills are up-to-date.