If you know what you want in your next job, you can be much more directed and efficient in your job search.

Write down a list of the things you want in your next job. You might think, 'That's easy - more money!' But other aspects of a job are important, too, things like:

Job satisfaction
You might want a job that uses all your skills or is in an area of personal interest to you.

Degree of challenge
You might be bored, and want a job that extends your skills or develops new ones.

Responsibility
Would you rather be managing people, or projects, or timelines, or budgets? Or do you want a rest from responsibility, and to work in a more hands-on way?

Work environment
Maybe you want a slower or a faster paced workplace.

Different  working hours
Flexible hours might suit you better, or a different roster from the one you're currently working.

Often you have to weigh up the good and bad things about a possible job. Ask yourself:

• What if I get a job that pays more, but I have to travel a lot and be away from my family?
• What if I get a job that allows me more flexibility, but creates more stress and requires more time?

To help you make a better decision, you might want to draw up two columns: one with the heading 'What I want' and the other with 'What I don't want'. Whatever your likes and dislikes, the main thing is to be aware of them in your job search.

You may find it helpful to spend some time identifying your work values. You can do this in My Guide.

Assessment centres 

Assessment centres (usually run by private recruiting companies) can help you identify your:

• vocational skills
• interests
• objectives
• abilities.

Centres conduct assessment using many methods, for example:

• work simulations
• panel interviews
• role playing
• group activities
• ability testing
• psychological testing.