Entering the World of Work

Chapter 5: Making a Career Plan

Smart Tips

Real-World Connection
Follow these steps to write your script:

1. Imagine a job that is perfect for you.
2. Make a list of the skills needed for this job.
3. Make a list of your skills that have prepared you for this job. Include skills that you have learned at school, at work, and at volunteer jobs.
4. Make a list of your experiences that have prepared you for this job. Include experience from work and volunteer job.
5. Match your list of skills and experiences with the skills needed for the job.
6. Begin your script by introducing yourself.
7. Next explain that you are applying for the job as a ___(add the job from step 1)______.
8. Briefly describe how your skills and experience match the skills needed for the job.
9. Thank the interviewer.

Point of View
Talk with your teacher or your school career or guidance counselor. Ask them about any classes or extra curricular activities that you can get involved in that would help you build confidence. Try out different activities. Push yourself to do new things. Try things that are uncomfortable. For example, if you are shy, think about becoming a member of the debate team or trying out for the school plays. Make a list of possibly activities.
         Think about why you may not feel good about yourself. Carole had a learning disability that made her feel bad about herself. Ask yourself, “What keeps me from feeling good about myself?” Write down your answer on a piece of paper. Then ask yourself: “What activity might help me feel better about myself?” Keep asking yourself this question. Look at your list of possible activities. Sign up for one of the activities. Participate for one month. Then journal for three pages about how this activity is helping you feel better about yourself.

Making Good Choices
Think about what is best for Morgan. Think about Morgan's options. Ask yourself why Morgan no longer likes her job. Make a list of possible reasons. Perhaps the tasks changed. Perhaps the tasks grew boring. Perhaps she is tired of working in sporting goods. Perhaps she thinks that the travel industry is more exciting. With a friend, talk over Morgan's reasons for leaving her job. Ask yourself and your friend why you would want to change jobs.
         Think about how Morgan can solve her problem. Discuss solutions with your friend. Perhaps you will conclude that Morgan should research and evaluate the alternative career before she makes a career decision.