An effective job search is usually not a once in awhile, hit-or-miss thing; you need to be organized. To create your plan, talk to career counselors at your school or look for job-hunting advice online and in guidebooks. Determine what your job search process will be and follow-through on your plan.

Connect with people who can be of help to you (and vice versa) to uncover work-related opportunities. Talk with people in different industries and professions and visit their work sites if you can. Ask them questions about how they got into the field and what their experience has been. You’ll begin to get a sense of which opportunities you find exciting – and which environments you’d rather avoid.

Look for jobs that fit your goals. Remember that while you’re searching for your “ideal” job, you may need part-time or short-term work to cover your expenses. Consider what skills and talents you have that might be marketable, whether it’s building Web sites, tutoring students, installing audio equipment, cooking, or carpentry. Meet with one or more temporary job agencies and submit your resume. They can help you find short-term jobs that can both bring in cash and add to your job experience.

Consider what industries and types of jobs interest you and research specific companies.