First, what jobs have some longevity, or "trending"...

First problem is to find what jobs are coming up as those have the highest probability of longevity. I don't like looking every year or so, hence I look for trends that will keep me busy for a longer period of time.

Once you know the trends and the way you will fill that trend, you can then start looking at who will be hiring in that area. If the job is cutting edge, it may not pay well initially, particularly if it is a start-up. Plan on a lower initial pay and the knowledge that as a member of the initial start-up, your position typically yields more in the long term with stock options et al.

Where do you look? Start with the trade magazines in your field and in the areas that are growing. Health care: look at the health care trade magazines. Security? Look at who has a need for security, the type os security that fits and how you fit in. Consider government actions and legislation, the un-cool financial and insurance companies etc. This drives a lot of new opportunities.

This is typically simple to say, more difficult to do.

Network, network, network...

Learn to schmooze and network with people you know. Become visible with the ones who are working in the field you want to go into. If there is no such thing do to start-ups and cutting edge, learn how to find the trade shows, meetings, luncheons where they speak or seminars. Then network everyone there.

The higher the insider you network, the higher your chances of getting past HR and the resume screeners and into the hiring authority. This is true whether you are looking for employment or a consulting gig.

Also learn to network the people you don't know and are in totally different fields. In a Nano Technology luncheon I attended, I met the head of the largest talent scout (legit) in the DFW area, as well as some tech leaders and quite a few sales and marketing guys that weren't even remotely thought to be associated with Nano tech.

Check out the tech luncheons, even if they cost you $25 to $50 for the lunch. The people you meet there are more connections, and they connect with others who are the people you need to know.

Networking Clubs and Groups

The network craze is generating new networking groups or clubs. LinkedIn.com? is one and with only a few key first connects, you can be connected to several thousand at the next layer, accessible by you. The site is searchable by industry, skill, hobbies, company and user names. My second tier contacts include people with the CIA, IBM and many others, yours can too! Having these other contacts, you can ask them about their industry, job openings, trends, advice or whatever. A usefull tool!