You've decided it's the right time to look for a new job, but how can you ensure you find the ideal position?

Self appraisal

In your current or previous jobs, you'll have gained a valuable set of transferrable skills which may be of interest to a potential employer. Compile a list of these and assess whether there are areas which need development. The ability to identify your strengths and weaknesses will also put you in good stead when it comes to an interview.

Once you have evaluated your skills, consider the type of position you would like to obtain and which organisations will be most likely to welcome your specialist skills. This will provide recruitment consultancies and potential employers with a clear picture of your objectives.

Cataloguing your skills and achievements will also help HR functions and recruiters differentiate the way in which your skill set differs from another candidate with similar academic qualifications.

Register with a recruitment consultancy

The best way to find the job you want is to register with a recruitment agency.

You should select an established consultancy, with a good reputation, which specialises in placing candidates in your chosen role or sector. It can be beneficial to register with more than one agency but don't fall into the trap of registering with multiple agencies as this may jeopardise your chances if your CV is sent to the same company by several different agencies.

Speak to recruitment consultancies about the current state of the job market. Find out which sectors are actively recruiting and ask how long the process takes. Enquire about up-to-date salary information and current market trends and sign up for regular job alerts which fit your requirements.

Once the initial consultation is complete and skill sets and objectives have been identified a good consultancy will swing into action immediately, putting you forward for appropriate vacancies within their existing client base and/or targeting relevant organisations on your behalf.

Results may materialise immediately but sometimes it takes a little longer, it will entirely depend on prevailing circumstances. Ask the agency to keep you informed and to report on progress on a regular basis.

Start networking

The old adage 'it's not what you know, it's who you know' really comes to the fore here. If you have a solid network of co-workers, employers, business associates and friends, you could have a real advantage over other job seekers. The social network LinkedIn is a great platform to use if you want to expand your network.

Look at online job boards

Find out which online job boards specialise in the sector you want to work in. Once you have found the most appropriate site, use the job search facility to find vacancies which fit your requirements. Most job boards allow you to upload your CV so potential employers can find you. However, you should take into consideration that you have no control over which companies will receive it.

Read sector specific trade press

Knowledge of matters relevant to your chosen profession or sector is obviously a good thing. Just as importantly, possessing a demonstrable awareness of current issues and information could give you the edge on your fellow candidates. Keeping abreast of the latest news will also provide you with important market intelligence around who is recruiting, expanding or changing jobs so that you can actively target and refine your job search.