That means doing a reality check before you head into the job market.



For example, knowing what your first-time employment options are is half the battle. If you can gravitate toward a career and job where you know in advance there are growing opportunities you're way ahead of the game.

By the same token, guiding yourself away from job situations that are declining and avoiding employment areas where there is negative growth can give you much more confidence in your first-time employment choices.

So, take a look at the top 10 jobs with the largest projected losses (according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics):

1. Farmers and ranchers.

2. Order clerks.

3. Tellers.

4. Insurance-claim and -policy processing clerks.

5. Word processors and typists.

6. Sewing machine operators.

7. Dishwashers.

8. Switchboard operators, including answering services.

9. Loan interviewers and clerks.

10. Computer operators.

If you're a recent high school or college grad, or you're breaking into the job market for the first time as an entry-level worker, these are the first areas you ought to avoid. If you're recently retired and wish to get back into the workplace, these opportunities are less promising for you.

Regardless of your current situation, if you're planning to go into the job market this year and you haven't been there recently, things have changed! Especially since 9/11 and Katrina.

The old-fashioned, traditional methods are out. Using them can extend your job search from weeks to months. These days the most effective methods are the new 21st Century alternative and non-traditional techniques.

So, before you head into the job marketplace for fist-time employment, you must have a plan. You need to know what you have going for you thaT's marketable. You need a job search strategy that's going to put you in charge of your job decisions. And you need to have a system that will get you a job offer in a matter o days--not weeks and month.

Don't make the mistake of thinking that because this is your first time out that anything will be OK. Remembering, your setting yourself on a path that will set you up for the rest of your work life. This is the year to turn your job search into the career adventure of a lifetime!