• When looking for a new job you need to be prepared to work at it. Be ready to invest time and effort in your search.

• Research your market in the media. Use the internet. Talk to recruiters. And don’t forget your own network of contacts.

• Know what you want! If you aren’t clear what you want how can you expect others to help you? Make sure that you tell recruiters what you are looking for: the type of job, sector, location, salary level, and so on.

• Bear in mind that the recruitment process takes longer than you might think. Companies can be slower to make decisions than you might expect, so be patient.

• If a recruiter is handling the assignment, use their assistance and experience in negotiating your package.

• Don’t accept the first position that comes along without taking a step back and making a rational decision. Ask yourself if the company meets your requirements. Is the role challenging enough? What negative aspects are associated with the offer? Don’t jump out of the frying pan into the fire!