Question: I have been let go by three companies (all banks) over the past three years. I'm really not sure why this is happening to me. Am I employable and what can I do about this?

-- Lucy, Berkeley, Calif.

Lucy: Three terminations in three years are enough to reveal patterns that might offer insights. To break the cycle, take the time now to understand the circumstances and your role in the dismissals. In addition to your own self-assessment, seek feedback from previous colleagues and supervisors.

Look for discernable patterns in:

• The job and the work environment: Is there a better fit than banking for you? What kind of work setting do you thrive in?

• The supervisor's style: What has your relationship been like with your boss in each of your work settings? Are there similarities in their management styles that led to a mismatch?

• Your own role: Were there gaps in your performance or interpersonal skills? How closely aligned were your priorities with the business needs of the organization? How might your thinking and behavior have contributed to your dismissals?

Once you've identified the patterns, target employers, environments and supervisors that play to your strengths. At the same time, create a development plan to address any personal shortcomings you've identified. If you can learn from the experience and present yourself with confidence to potential employers, you are most certainly employable.