by Simon Wright

Created on: May 15, 2007   Last Updated: May 21, 2007

Start out by doing a skills audit. List all the skills and qualifications you have. Not just the ones you use in your present job but also skills that you display outside of work or have used in previous jobs. Remember to think a bit out of the box. What are your hobbies? If you coach kids at soccer at the weekend put down 'soccer coach'. Someone I know works for a company that was set up to coach soccer to primary kids. You might just think of it as your hobby; someone else might see it as a business opportunity.

Next, think about the types of jobs that would make you happy. Don't rule anything out at this stage, just make a big list of things that you think you would find satisfying to do.

Now go back to your skills audit and compare it with the list of jobs you've compiled. There will be some that can immediately be ruled out. I might want to be a singer but if singing isn't one of my skills, then it's hardly likely to come true. However, you will probably find some jobs that you feel would require skills similar to those that you possess. Put these on your shortlist.

Of your shortlisted jobs, think about how you could make that switch to one of them. Are there any barriers that would prevent you from getting such a job? If so, can they be resolved; for example it might be a case of getting a professional qualification. And how would you go about applying for such jobs? It might be a case of signing up for a job agency, or making contact with the organisations by phone or letter.

Getting our dream job is very difficult, but this article is not about a dream job, it is about getting a job that won't make us miserable. This should not be impossible if you have determination, energy, self belief and talent. Good luck with the search!

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