These can tough times for the mature job seeker who is still required to generate an income. Frequently you've spent many years with the same company or in the same industry. And, when you're downsized or laid off, you look around with concern. You wonder how you'll ever make the switch to something new.

Nevertheless, it's time to take that step into the unknown. Your family depends on you to move forward. And you need to restore the confidence in your own ability to provide for them. You can't allow yourself to fall into the trap of feeling downsized or unemployed for long.

Look. The competition is stronger and the job search process is trickier when you're a mature job seeker who's been recently downsized or laid off But, there's some good news. Older workers are increasingly valued in some key industries. The secret to your success is to learn how to promote yourself to the right decision-makers.

Here are five powerful job search steps that can seriously advance your candidacy.

1. Get over the discouragement. Don't take your downsized job loss personally. Just move on.

2. Take the time to explore all your options. You're probably qualified for a lot more positions than you thought. It's time to think outside the box. A careful examination of your key capabilities, strengths and assets (not just your work history or job descriptions) will suggest other opportunities you may not have thought of.

3. Don't worry about a resume just yet. Don't make the mistake of papering the job market or the internet with your resume. It's not going to get you a job right now. Use it as a follow-up document (like a business card) after you've established contact with a decision-makers who potentially could have an interest in you.

4. Your best resource for identifying those decision-makers are people you already know . . . neighbors, relatives, friends, former co-workers and bosses, religious leaders and fellow members, politicians (local, state and federal), fellow members of service clubs and social organizations, school mates and teachers, etc.

5. Ask these contacts to help you identify decision-makers consistent with your options. Then ask them to introduce you informally. Nothing is going to happen for you until you meet face-to-face with people who are qualified to offer you a job. Introductions by contacts you already know is the fastest, most effective way to get in front of the right people.

Fortunately there are many other proven strategies available that can help you accomplish your goals in a matter of days instead of weeks or months . . . regardless of your age. The sweet smell of job search success takes some work, no question. But, then, you're already used to hard work. Right?