Search the field(s) and job type(s).
One of the initial steps in making a career change is to research the career fields and job types in which you have an interest. Some questions to ask about any career field:

• Trends in the industry/career?
• Educational requirements?
• Salary ranges?
• Licensure?
• Opportunities in your preferred geographical location?

Helpful resources:
General Careers Research:
America's Career InfoNet
Occupational Outlook Handbook

Business Careers Research
Vault.com
WetFeet.com
TheLadders.com 
Sustainline.com/green-jobs 

Perfect the basic job search tools — resume, cover letter, interview.
Once you know the direction you might want to take, sharpening your job search tools is the next step. Resumes and cover letters are often the first impression a potential employer has of you. The interview and follow-up reinforce that first positive impression. Attention to these details can make a big difference in a tight job market.

Helpful resources:
The Six Cardinal Rules of Resume Writing
How to Write a Winning Resume
Preparing for Interviews Using Tested Strategies

Network with people in the field.
It has been said that 80% of jobs are found outside posted job openings. Using your network doesn't mean the good ol' boy network — it means broadening your knowledge and options by connecting with those in your chosen field or company. You have a network right now, even if you don't realize it. Think about family, friends, former classmates and/or co-workers. Talk to them! The Career Services Office also has a great resource to help expand your network. The Alumni Sharing Knowledge (ASK) Program can connect you with fellow alumni who are willing to offer insight and advice.

Helpful resources:
Six Degrees of Employment
Use Networking to Your Advantage

Identify and target companies.
What companies hire people to do what you're interested in doing? How do you find out who they are? Some of your research on career fields and/or job types may lend some help here, but it is sometimes difficult to find a "list" of organizations. Try Chamber of Commerce web sites for professional associations.

Identify job openings.
Look for posted opportunities and talk with family, friends, neighbors, Career Services — anyone who might be aware of possible openings. Some great resources are newspapers, Internet job boards, company web sites, Career Services' weekly JobLine.

Helpful resources:
Career Services' Jobline
ArkansasJobs.net
MonsterTRAK

Follow up.
After you apply for an interview or for a job, don't let your contact end there! You could drive yourself crazy waiting, but more importantly, that potential employer isn't hearing more about your interests and skills. Don't be afraid to follow up — be persistent (but not overbearing)!

Helpful resources:
Why Thank You Letters Aren't Enough Anymore

Negotiating/Comparing Offers/Making Decisions.
Congratulations! You now have a job offer. Do you take that job or do you wait to hear from the other company with which you just interviewed? And you thought the interviews were tough! The decision-making and negotiating stage of the job search can be the toughest part.

Helpful resources:
Put Your Best Foot Forward to Negotiate Effectively
Juggling Multiple Job Offers
Riley Guide to Salary Information on the Web
SalaryExpert.com
Salary Calculator
Salary.com