Essential to job search success is honest self-assessment, a process that will enhance your ability to articulate your strengths. Start by listing all of the jobs you’ve had since you began your professional career. Then identify the component skills used in each job – don’t dismiss seemingly insignificant skills! Just because something seems to come easily to you doesn’t mean that it is not of great value to a potential employer. Next, thoughtfully identify one or two significant achievements you had in each job, focusing on the results you delivered.

The next step in the process is to determine where you want to go! Lack of clarity and focus on “what’s next” are huge stumbling blocks for many potential job seekers.

Start by identifying your core values, cultural requirements, areas of expertise, and areas of passion in a work setting. A career coach can help you see the common characteristics in your past successes and assist you in identifying the kinds of problems you like to solve.

Then, determine what companies might have those types of problems. Study relevant publications for ideas on emerging trends and growth opportunities. Spend some serious time thinking about the kinds of organizations you might like to be part of. Defining your direction is crucial to your success in the process.