The secret to any job search is knowing where to find the available jobs. But if this is the first time you’re looking for a job, there are a few more things you should know before you begin.

1. What do you want to do? To get some ideas about what jobs are available, look through the want ads, either in print or on line, and just read the job titles and descriptions. Then conduct some information interviews either by phone or in person to learn more.

2. Where do you want to work? There are also the company questions: non-profit? large corporation? small family business? The answers to these questions will help you narrow your search.

3. What are your skills? If you’ve been a student, the secret is talking about your skills in “business” terms. Researching, analyzing and synthesizing is what you do when you write a research paper.

4. How much money do you want/need to earn? Be realistic here. If this is your first job, it’s unlikely you can earn a six-figure salary. But think about what you need to live on. Non-profit jobs generally pay less and internships often don’t pay at all, but the value to your resume and skill base may compensate for the low take- home pay.

5. What are your current priorities? Do you want a job to save money for grad school? Are you planning to get married and you need a little nest egg? Are you starting your chosen career path and want to get ahead as quickly as possible?knowing your life’s priorities will help you focus on what kind of job makes sense. If you need to save a lot of money for grad school or a wedding, you may be willing to do a job that isn’t your “dream job” but pays well, knowing it’s only for a short time.

6. Finally, who do you know? The answer to this question will help you find the jobs that are available. Who you know will include anyone you currently know – family, friends, teachers, volunteers you work with, etc. And those people you will be meeting in your information interviews, career search groups, etc. Don’t waste these valuable resources by talking with them before you know your basic game plan.