The purpose of this section is to provide current and potential employees with career development information in support of the Commonwealth's workforce goals. Here you will find the information and resources you need to take responsibility for your own career.This area explains the Career Development process, and provides career planning resources that can help you set career goals and develop career plans.
Steps to Career Planning
Conduct self-assessment.
Explore careers that interest you.
Make decisions and set goals.
Create an action planner.
Manage your career.
It is important to know your overall goal. Think about where you would like to be at the end of your career and set your plan to get there. The best way to ensure compatibility and balance in your life and career is to consider all aspects of your life from the beginning of your plan. Once you have a sense of what you are trying to accomplish overall, it is important for you to establish your current status. A personal inventory can reveal your:
Abilities
Interests
Attitudes
The inventory will define your:
Strengths
Weaknesses
Looking for a match between your strengths and the work you are doing or considering is the most important step before making any decisions. Assessing your personality and attitudes will help you determine the best way for you to move toward your goal:
What are your current skills and achievements?
What about knowledge and values?
How will your learning style impact your pursuit?
What are your interests?
When you are clear on these things, you will be able to make better choices about the direction you want your career to take - and do a better job of convincing prospective employers that you are the best choice! For more information on self-assessment tools, exploring careers that interest you, setting realistic goals, creating an action plan, and learning how to manage your career, contact with one of our counselors and they will assist you for your future.
Individual counseling may include:
Career Planning/Development
Career Change Options
Resume Writing
Job Search Techniques
Interview Preparation
Networking Strategies
Salary Negotiation
Additionally, software is available to assist the job seeker with: