Get involved in change
Change management is a big buzz term as organisations try to change their systems and processes to meet ever-changing customer needs. Given that most employees resist change and see it as a nuisance, people who enjoy the challenge of change are in demand. Even better is being able to convince a potential employer that your experiences of 'change' projects can help make change happen more quickly and successfully for them.

Learn to work across boundaries
Increasingly business involves working across departments, divisions, and even countries. If you have been in your current role for more than two years, try to get seconded to another department. In today's job market, remaining static can imply that you aren't bothered about advancing your career. Even better, try to get some international experience, it will do wonders for your CV.

Build a strong network
Increasingly, good people don't have to look for a job; instead, they are made offers by other companies because they have a good reputation. Everyone you meet could potentially be contacted by someone doing research for a headhunter looking for someone with your skills. So make sure that you make a good impression on all of the people (both within the company and outside - people like suppliers, customers, competitors, etc) and build good relationships with all of the people that you meet. Eventually, when a headhunter gets in touch, make sure that you are polite and helpful to them, even if you are not interested this time. Who knows? The next time they get in touch, it could be just what you are looking for.

Keep learning - both in and outside work
When employers look for managers, they are often looking for aptitude and the ability to learn and adapt more than actual technical skills. For example, rather than expecting you to know their particular computer systems, HR policies or whatever, they may be looking for someone who can learn them quickly. And you can show on your CV that you take it upon yourself to keep learning and developing your skills. Anything from an MBA to simple piano lessons will help to demonstrate your thirst for continuing development. It almost goes without saying that you should keep abreast of developments in workplace technology such as the internet, computer packages, WAP phones, and the like.

Now you know what people are looking for, you can start to chase projects and collect experiences for your CV that will make you shine.

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