Get un-stuck in your job hunt

Are you stuck in your hunt for a new job? You probably just need to reset your goals. Take a break and write down what you want, and don't want in your next job. Start with what you don't want (that's always easier) and then write down what you do want. Stop thinking about the job you or other people in your life think you should be going for, and think about what you really want out of your career.
 
Yes, think big and dream a little. The more connected you can get with what makes your heart sing, the easier and faster you will get hired. Truly, the more you focus on what you want, the faster you'll get hired. Why? Because people want to hire people who are passionate about their work, excited to take the job they have. The clearer you can get on what you want, the faster you'll find the job you want, and the more that passion and enthusiasm of yours will show through. This "what I want” list is not written in stone, by the way .... it will shift throughout your life, so don't get stuck in "analysis paralysis."

Once you understand what you want, you need to translate it into a language anyone can understand. Keep it simple! Get away from industry-specific terms. Practice on people who do not understand what you do for a living. If they can understand three things you want in your next job, then you know you've got a good story.

I work for an industry that is not growing. I'm planning on looking for a new job but I don't want to stay in this industry. How do I go about not only changing jobs, but industries? What tips can you provide?

• Step 1:
  Define what you want:  Write down 5 things you want, and 5 things you do not want, in your next career move.
• Step 2:
  Understand what your target market wants: Do some research (online and with people) to understand exactly what potential employers are looking for.
• Step 3:
  Identify the gaps: make a list of the skills required to get your ideal job, write down what skills you have that apply, and identify what the gaps are.