This can be the toughest part of finding a job, especially for new graduates. The secret to successful job searching - as with most things in life - is to KNOW YOURSELF, and well.

Before you even scan the papers to see who is hiring, sit down and think as honestly as possible about the kind of person you are, the way you prefer to work, and the kind of future you want for yourself.

Some questions to consider could be:

What are my strengths, and what are my weaknesses?

Do I like working on group projects and in teams? Or do I prefer to work independently?

Am I willing to move to a new location for the right job?

What kind of environment do I need to be happy?

Will I want to travel a great deal?

What are my goals for the next 3 to 5 years? Am I trying to make as much money as possible? Learn all I can about my chosen field? Create long-lasting relationships in the profession?

What are my values? What kinds of things are important to me?

Imagine not only your dream job but all elements of what you would like to do for the next few years. Once you have a sense of what you need to feel happy in your career, start looking for the company or position that will allow you to achieve that goal.