Before venturing down any new career path — whether you're planning to pursue work on a full-time or temporary basis — you'll need to assess your marketability: the skills, attributes and experience you possess that increase your value to current and prospective employers.

The job market changes constantly, and so do the skills in demand in a given field or industry. If you are aware of these trends, you can take steps to build strengths in hot areas of specialization. In the process, you'll greatly enhance your career potential. Here are a few suggestions:

• Highlight your track record. Employers today may be more focused on your skill set than job titles you held previously, but they do look for a pattern of growth. Emphasizing your impressive record of accomplishments — such as promotions or professional recognition and awards — will give you an edge over other candidates.
• Hone your skills. A sharper and more comprehensive skill set affects your overall marketability. In this ever-changing business environment it is important to take advantage of class offerings pertinent to your field of interest. Consider enrolling in seminars, university courses and online training.
• Know your personal requirements. Lifestyle needs influence your marketability more than you might think. If, for example, relocation is not an option for you, you may be less marketable than someone who is able to move when the job requires it. Your personal requirements may not eliminate you from consideration entirely, but keep in mind that the more flexible you are, the greater your chances of being hired.

After you've assessed your marketability, you may need to identify ways to improve the fit between your experience and your professional goals.

• Re-engineer your current job. Start by meeting with your supervisor to determine ways you can expand your responsibilities. If you don't have experience working on a project team, volunteer to be assigned to a group where your expertise could be an asset.
• Take advantage of training resources. Your initiative will not only help round out your skill set, it will demonstrate to your employer that you would be a promising candidate for a leadership role.
• Consider temporary work. This flexible employment option can help you enhance your skills while also giving you exposure to different work environments.