If you lost your job, want to change careers, or are looking for your first job, how do you decide where to start your job search? Your first thought may be to randomly search the help wanted ads or the Internet. However, the most effective job search begins with a plan.

Taking self assessments can help you identify skills, interests, values and other traits you bring to the table for potential career opportunities. Knowing more about yourself will help guide you to a career that fits you.

If you are uncertain about your career options, or interested in knowing more about a particular occupation, include discovery and exploration in your career planning process. Learn about specific tasks, education, experience and skills that jobs require before you commit to a career plan.

Will your dream job pay enough to provide a self-sustaining, family-supporting income now and in the future? Learn more about potential careers by comparing wages, identifying growing occupations and looking ahead to the future of the industry.