With so many jobs out there, it can be tricky working out which one is right for you. Here are some hints and tips to help get your search off the ground.

Looking for your first job or a career change?

Start by thinking about the things you're good at and what you enjoy doing. Speak to your family and friends to see which jobs they think would suit you. Most hobbies or skills can be transferred into a job:

• Like talking on the phone? You might be suited to a career in customer services or as a receptionist.
• Enjoy planning nights out for you and your friends? Why not get a job in event management or as a personal assistant, where you will be organising things?
• Love playing team sports? You might find a job achieving team goals, such as one in retail or sales, rewarding.
• Like getting to the bottom of problems? A job in finance could be a good option for you.
• Do you enjoy babysitting? A job in childcare, such as a nursery nurse or teaching assistant, might be right for you.
• Got the travel bug? How about a job in tourism or one where you're not stuck in an office, such as a driver or engineer?

Once you have a specific job in mind, try and talk to someone who works in that area to find out what their role involves.

Careers advice

For a professional opinion on where your strengths lie, you can take a personality test. All you do is fill in a questionnaire and the experts will tell you the sorts of jobs you are suited to.

And, if you're worried your qualifications might be letting you down or you fancy a career change, there are training courses available that can help you get a foot in the door.

You might want to consider investing in a careers advice course, such as Get that Job. This online learning system, which comes with a free MP3 download version, guides you through the whole job hunting process, from writing your CV, to preparing for interviews.

Don't forget, this section covers everything from how to write a CV, to putting together a cover letter and interview tips, so if you're looking for advice to help you land your next job, you'll find it here.

Be your own boss

If you'd like a job with more independence, why not buy your own business? You could run a pub, buy into a franchise or even run your own guest house.