Stage 1 Toolkit
When it comes to figuring out where you want to take your work-life next, spending the time and money is well worth it. I have listed my recommendations for tools that will help you assess your situation and give you some ideas as to what your options might be. Take a few minutes to check out each one before you decide which to select.
- Self-Directed Search (external link)
For those of us who want to get started quickly, this assessment tool only takes 15-30 minutes and can help you find careers and education sources that match your skills and interests. Minimal cost.
- Pearson Assessment (external link)
I especially like the Campbell Interest and Skills Survey (CISS) tool, because it uses targeted questions and analysis to help you better understand how you fit into the world of work. Moderate cost.
- Career Intelligence (external link)
A great site by women and for women, providing information and advice dealing with job transition and self-assessment. Minimal to moderate cost.
- What Color is Your Parachute? 2007, by Richard Bolles
One of the top-selling career books of all time. The current edition is stocked with practical advice for job hunters and career changers, including what to do next and how to do it. $17.95 list.
- MAPP (Motivational Appraisal of Personal Potential) (external link)
The various MAPP tools provide you with personal and work analyses and appraisals. It's very user-friendly. Free, or moderate cost.
- O*Net OnLine (external link)
The U.S. Department of Labor's gigantic Web site focuses on occupational information and tools related to exploring gazillions of occupations.
Coach's Tip:
Government online resources and off-line services (such as your library) often provide members and cardholders with free access to some subscription databases, article archives and paid Web sites. College and university libraries (where you may have current or alumni privileges) also subscribe to many proprietary databases.
You can often access these from your own home or office computer. Other times, you'll need to visit a library or Employment Department office.
So, if you run into a site with big fees, check first—before writing a check.
Got a question for Gordon?
Ask it here
« Back to Stage 1 Main Page
