17.5 Get Your Career Off on the Right Track

Career planning is all about setting yourself up for success. It starts with having a positive outlook and really getting to know yourself. This helps you figure out what you're good at and what you care about.

Once you know what you want, it's time to get out there and find it. You'll need to do some research, network, and put together a killer application. Then comes the interview - your chance to shine and show why you're the perfect fit.

Developing Your Career Plan

Positive Mindset and Self-Assessment

Top images from around the web for Positive Mindset and Self-Assessment

• 

  Career Decision-Making Process | Freshman Experience View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Positive Mindset - Free of Charge Creative Commons Chalkboard image View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Growth Mindset Assessment Activity | OER Commons View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Career Decision-Making Process | Freshman Experience View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Positive Mindset - Free of Charge Creative Commons Chalkboard image View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

Top images from around the web for Positive Mindset and Self-Assessment

• 

  Career Decision-Making Process | Freshman Experience View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Positive Mindset - Free of Charge Creative Commons Chalkboard image View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Growth Mindset Assessment Activity | OER Commons View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Career Decision-Making Process | Freshman Experience View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Positive Mindset - Free of Charge Creative Commons Chalkboard image View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

• Positive mindset cultivates optimistic outlook that increases motivation and resilience to overcome obstacles and challenges in career journey
• Self-assessment identifies personal strengths, weaknesses, and growth areas to clarify interests and passions that guide career choices
• Self-assessment defines core values to ensure career aligns with personal priorities
• Positive mindset and self-assessment enable informed decision-making about career path, increase self-awareness and confidence, and help set realistic goals and expectations

Job Search Strategies and Application Materials

Researching Careers, Finding Openings, Preparing Materials

• Research potential careers by exploring industries and job roles that match skills and interests
• Conduct informational interviews with professionals in desired fields (marketing managers, software engineers) to gain insights
• Review job descriptions and requirements to assess fit
• Find job openings by utilizing online job boards (Indeed, LinkedIn) and company websites
• Attend career fairs and networking events to make connections
• Leverage professional and personal networks for referrals
• Prepare application materials by tailoring resume to highlight relevant skills and experiences (project management, data analysis)
• Craft compelling cover letter to demonstrate fit and enthusiasm for the role and company
• Proofread and edit application materials for clarity, conciseness, and professionalism

Interviewing and Starting a New Job

Interview Best Practices and Strong First Impression

• Research company and role to demonstrate knowledge and interest during the interview
• Prepare responses to common questions (strengths, weaknesses) and provide specific examples to illustrate skills and experiences
• Practice active listening during the interview and ask thoughtful questions about the role and company culture
• Follow up after the interview with a thank you note to express appreciation and reiterate fit for the position
• Make a strong first impression in a new job by dressing professionally and arriving early
• Demonstrate enthusiasm and willingness to learn new skills and processes
• Take initiative in a new role and offer to help where needed to contribute to the team
• Build positive relationships with colleagues and supervisors through open communication and collaboration
• Seek feedback and clarification to ensure meeting expectations and making a positive impact in the new role