Review the SuccessHawk section on Career Exploration and consider taking the Self-Directed Career Search assessment to learn about other occupations that might be suitable for you. Even if you are not in a position to transition into a new career, this period of assessment will help you to identify your strongest assets and clarify your personal objectives, so that you can more clearly define your job search goals.
Five key questions to consider before writing your resume and launching your job search in earnest:

1. Should I look for a job similar to my last position?
   Reflect on what you most enjoyed about your previous jobs and identify the specific work environments, deliverables and responsibilities you want to pursue going forward. Then, research the best way to position your expertise to take advantage of current market conditions.
2. Do I need to change my job focus?
   If you work in an industry that is suffering from a downturn in the economy, consider broadening your job search to other industries. Explore alternatives by reading industry journals, setting up news alerts and conducting informational interviews with industry insiders.
3. Do I want to change my job/career focus?
   For some people, being laid off is a blessing in disguise. Under the right circumstances, this might be the perfect time for you to pursue a career that is better aligned with your values, interests and lifestyle. If you are pondering a career reinvention, take a look at Career Exploration.
4. What skills do I need to make myself more marketable?
   Think about ways to update your expertise and develop new marketable skills that will add immediate value to your resume. Going back to school does not mean that you have to pursue a degree program; you can gain new skills by attending continuing education classes, online seminars and professional development programs.
5. Is now the right time to start my own business?
   Losing a job can be the motivation to explore options beyond the corporate arena, particularly when there are limited job openings in the traditional workplace. If you’ve always dreamed of starting your own business, this might be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for. Some excellent resources to begin your entrepreneurial explorations include:
   • US Small Business Administration
     The SBA helps Americans to start, build and grow their businesses. This website offers a myriad of resources to support small business needs.
   • SCORE Counselors to America's Small Businesses
     Through a network of current and retired executives and small business owners, SCORE provides free/low cost mentoring advice, workshops and resources to small business owners.
   • My Own Business
     A free online course geared to the entrepreneur who wants to start or grow a business.