If you are planning to go back to work after years of being a stay-at-home parent or gearing up to switch jobs, then you have to consider certain things before you start job hunting. First, write a priority list that defines the types of employers and jobs you prefer. Jot down several companies that you are interested in working for, and find out how these companies recruit. Preparation is the key to a successful job hunt. Below are things you have to keep in mind before you go looking for your dream job.

For related articles, check out these links:

• 10 Things Every Job Hunter Should Do before Applying
• Making the Switch: 5 Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Change Careers
• Career Considerations: 5 Factors for Getting the Right Job
• Deal Or No Deal? 6 Reasons to Say No to a Job
• 6 Tips for Landing Your Dream Job

(First published in Good Housekeeping Magazine, Good Money section as "Money Wisdom" in April 2007; adapted for use in Female Network. Photo by TalentEgg.ca Hatching Graduate Careers via Flickr Creative Commons )