Know your objectives and preferences

• Define your own specific objectives, both personal and professional, before you begin.
• Decide if you are interested in contract or permanent placement. Each has its advantages.
• Understand your preferences regarding work styles, environments, pace, etc.
• Determine the job criteria that will help you meet your requirements.
• Think about which technologies you enjoy most, especially if you are experienced in more than one area.
• Consider what types of roles will help you achieve your long-term goals. Factor in the importance of learning new skills as you work.

Consider the size of organization you like most

• Many professionals want to work for large companies on the international IT scene. Others appreciate the opportunity to pave innovative new roads with smaller start-up firms.
• For still others, the size of the organization does not matter at all. Reflect on your own career experiences to date.
• Have you found yourself happier in a small organization, or thriving in a large environment?
• Factor your preferences in this area into your job search.
  

Select hands-on work or management

• Moving into a management role can be very rewarding.
• Management roles, however, include added responsibility, paperwork and the development of careers of those working under your supervision.
• If you enjoy hands-on technical work, management may not be the right direction for you.
• If you are contemplating a move into a management role, consider the reasons why.
• If you would simply like to pursue a higher salary, discuss that possibility with your current manager.
• If you are certain that management is right for you, demonstrate your willingness to learn and to lead.

Determine your salary or rate

• Understand that there is a wide range of salaries and rates for every IT role. Avoid letting salary alone influence your decision to accept or reject a potential opportunity.
• Research the ranges for different organizations in your local area. Base your range on the type of work you do, your years of experience and your financial obligations.
• Seek a compensation plan that is appropriate for your given role.
• Factor benefits, such as training, insurance coverage, retirement funds, etc., into your evaluation.

Additional factors to consider

• Are you willing to commute or relocate?
• You may have very specific needs that affect your career choices. Single parents, for instance, may require a daycare facility onsite.
• If you have health considerations, you might need an organization with a comprehensive benefit plan.
• Communicate your requirements up front so a potential employer can map an opportunity to those needs.
• Do you enjoy the challenge of learning leading-edge technologies or do you prefer to work in areas in which you already have experience?
• As an IT professional, it is in your best interest to stay attuned to emerging technologies and to keep your skills current.