|
Try the Occupational Outlook Handbook (www.bls.gov/oco/), Career Info Net (www.careerinfonet.org) or the O*Net Resource Center (http://online.onetcenter.org) for current information describing specific duties of various occupations, the skills and abilities required, the job outlook, median earnings and sources of additional information. Talk to individuals working in the field in which you are interested. Set up "informational interviews" to gather information from respected professionals in your area. Use the Internet for occupational information, professional associations and job postings to identify potential careers.
You may not have all of the qualifications that are needed to obtain your desired position. Setting goals to overcome identified barriers (education, experience, and lack of information) will help you determine where you would like to be in three to five years.
People who are in satisfying, challenging careers that match their talents, personalities and goals usually achieve a higher degree of success. And they live longer, healthier and more satisfying lives. Most people looking for a new job do not spend enough time in Step 1 of the career planning process. Few people explore their options and plan their career. This may explain why current research indicates that 80 percent of the workers in the USA are dissatisfied or mismatched in their jobs!
The Focus II program is a free, easy-to-use system designed to assist you in your career exploration. Complete self-assessments and map out realistic career goals. Call (614) 292-8493 to obtain access.
|