Struggling to decide what career you should embark on?  If you are recently graduated or looking for a career change, you should consider the following advice:

1.  What is the level of job satisfaction in the role that you seek?  Is this really the "dream" job you imagine it to be?  Talk to people in the industry, attend recruitment fairs and read career specific publications in order to get a feel for how the job really is.

2.  Are your qualifications and skills adequate for the job that you want?  Will it require further training?  If so, you should consider whether extra study can fit into your life.  Another consideration is cost, would a potential employer pay for this?  Sometimes this can be the case, but not always.

3.  Look to get a foot in the door and some exposure to the realities of day to day work in your chosen career.  Do this by applying for intern-ships, work placements etc, it can give you a valuable insight into whether you should pursue your dream.

4.   Choose the path you want to take based upon what you are interested in and the skills you possess.  Do not rely upon the advice of career counsellors.  Make your own decisions, you know yourself best.

5.  Set yourself realistic goals. Whilst you should aim high, don't set your sights on something completely unattainable based on your circumstances.

6.  Use the connections you have already made in life to explore different roles, even if just in conversation.  Many of your friends will know, be married to or be the children of interesting people. Tap into this knowledge, something interesting might come of it.

7.  Resist using recruitment/career agencies to "find" you a new career.  Take the time to write a well researched letter/email to a person at a company that interests you.

8.  Don't overlook opportunities immediately open to you for the sake of all out change.  If you are currently bogged down in your current job, look for promotions or different roles that might be more rewarding within the same business.

9.  Education is important, but an interest and appreciation for what you want to do can take you places.  Furthermore, additional non-classroom knowledge shows a dedication to potential employers.

10.  Be honest when it comes to pay/salary.  You will need a job that will pay your bills as well as keeping you happy!

A covering letter is now considered a must for any job application.  It is your first impression, first chance to sell yourself and can make or break your chances of progressing to interview.  Here are a list of important things that you should look to include in your covering letter:

10 Covering Letter Hints and Tips - What to include:

1.  The hint is in the title - LETTER.  It should take on the form, style and visual effect of a letter.  Include standard features such as addresses, names, contact numbers etc.  Keep the letter formal and concise.

2.  Get to the point.  Say why you are applying, the reason you are interested in the role and company and why your skills make you the most desireable candidate.

3.  Tailor each covering letter to each individual job.  Recruiters can spot copy and paste attempts, and have a keen eye for recycled "standard template" applications.  A good covering letter can embody standard features, but personalise them to you and the job you want.

4.  Know the name of the person you are writing to.  Not only does it show a level of research, but it also makes the covering letter more person.  To 'Whom It May Concern' and 'Dear Sir/Madam' are to be avoided.  Most company websites or corporate brochures/leaflets list a direct person to contact.

5.  Print the letter off and mail it together with the rest of your application rather than email (if possible or unless otherwise specified).

6.  Keep in mind when writing your covering letter that it should be a demonstration of why you want the job.  Your CV tells the recruiter your skills and qualifications, this is your opportunity to demonstrate your desire to fulfill the role.

7.  Keep it limited to one page.  Avoid waffly pointless content, repeating yourself or information contained in your CV.  Be concise, direct and convincing.  Resist begging.

8.   Spelling and grammar checks are vitally important.  Get someone else to read through it before sending, and at the least allow a word processing program to check it for obvious errors.

9.  Encourage the recruiter to interview you with loaded content.  This can be done by referring in your letter to your willingness to expand upon your suitability, applicable skills, experience and qualifications at the interview stage.

10.  Have professional contacts?  Inform the recruiter that you could bring these contacts and their knowledge with you for the benefit of the firm.