Now, if you're ready to shift into high gear and look for a new job you will want to investigate and utilize all the avenues open to you, including:

CMAA's Career Services and ClubCareers

ClubCareers is a complete Web-based career enhancement tool that will enables CMAA members view job postings from the Managerial Openings Listing (MOL); The Mid-Management Career Opportunities Listing (MMCO); Internship Listing; post your résumés online and receive job opportunity e-mail alerts on a regular basis. Furthermore, all these vital member benefits are completely free of charge.ClubCareers is sure to be beneficial to club managers and job posters at all levels. For more information visit the ClubCareer Website, www.clubcareers.org.

CMAA Chapters

Many local chapters have employment assistance programs. Let your chapter know you are seeking a position. If you wish to investigate openings outside your chapter area, CMAA can provide information on how to contact a specific chapter.

Help-wanted Columns

Read the help-wanted columns of local newspapers and those in geographical areas of interest to you, as well as those of professional and industry magazines, such as Club Management Magazine or Club Director.

Online Job Listings

In this age of technological advances, there are a great many job opportunities available online. If you have access to the Internet, visit industry-specific Web sites and job hunting sites. You may wish to place a "job wanted" posting on some of these Web sites, as well. These are great outlets to learn about how to carry out a successful job search.

Position-wanted Advertisements

Consider investing in a position-wanted listing in a trade magazine or newspaper. Check the publication's classified section for rates and deadlines.

University Placement Centers

Contact your alma mater's placement center. The placement center will register you and construct a file of credentials, references and college transcripts.

Friends, Business Acquaintances and Past Employers

Take advantage of your "network" by letting people know that you are looking for a new position. They may receive information about an opening before it is officially announced or widely known. Ask your local chapter members if they have heard about any open positions that are not listed in the MOL. Supply these contacts with copies of your resume so they can recommend you and give up-to-date details to prospective clubs.

Previous Prospective Employers

Someone who has interviewed you in the past may know of a club looking for a manager with your skills and background. Be judicious in using this avenue. It may be awkward for someone who turned you down for a job – or someone whose job offer you turned down – to be of much help in your current job search.

Private Employment Agencies

These agencies may know of unadvertised openings in the field. Be sure you understand the financial and legal commitments you may be required to make to the agency before you decide whether to accept its guidance.

When you discover a position that interests you, gather background information on the operation. Learn the basics – the club's founding date; the membership size; annual dues revenue and gross dollar volume; additional club facilities; etc. There are two major advantages to spending time on this research. First, you will be able to demonstrate to your prospective employer a sincere interest in his or her club. Even more important, you will gain a better idea of whether or not it is the type of position you really want.

Talk with the previous club manager if possible. He or she can give you information about the facility and an idea of what you may face on the job. Try to get as many different perspectives as possible. Realize that much of what you learn about a club and its operations will be subjective – the personal opinion of whomever gives you the information. Arrange to tour the club if possible.