Mark each of the following statements as True or False. Circle the answer that is closest to what you believe about yourself today. The following page provides suggestions for interpreting your scores and where to you would benefit in starting your Career Development. True False Step 1 I know my major strengths and weaknesses. ___ ___ I know my basic values, characteristics and attitudes.___ ___ I understand my learning style and personality type. ___ ___ I know what kind of career fits who I am. ___ ___ I have known what type of work I want to do for more than 1 year. ___ ___ Write your Total Number of True and False Answers for Step 1. ___ ___ Step 2 I am certain about the types of work that I could perform well. ___ ___ I am clear that my current work choices are just right for me. ___ ___ I have researched extensively the occupations in which I am interested. ___ ___ The types of work I can do will pay me enough to live the typeof life I want. ___ ___ I have interviewed three or more people in the occupations that interest me. ___ ___ Write your Total Number of True and False Answers for Step 2. ___ ___ Step 3 I am satisfied with the career decisions I have made in my life. ___ ___ I have a specific action plan for my career development for now and the future. ___ ___ I am clear about how to make effective decisions about my career. ___ ___ I would know what issues to consider if I chose to change my life in the future. ___ ___ I have experience in setting and achieving goals in my life. ___ ___ Write your Total Number of True and False Answers for Step 3. ___ ___ True False Step 4. I have collected and organized a list of people who I know. ___ ___ I am comfortable calling people on the phone to discuss work issues and opportunities. ___ ___ I have an up-to-date resume and/or portfolio that has been reviewed by a friend, colleague or career professional. ___ ___ I know how to write a variety of work search letters (e.g. cover, broadcast, interview, follow up, etc.). ___ ___ I feel comfortable discussing my skills and accomplishments with an employer in an interview. ___ ___ Write your Total Number of True and False Answers for Step 4. ___ ___ Step 5 I know what issues to evaluate to understand if a job is the right fit for me. ___ ___ I would feel comfortable asking for instructions or clarification from a new boss. ___ ___ I understand the political dynamics at work. ___ ___ I know what to do if I experience conflict with others at work. ___ ___ I know how to ask for feedback about my performance. ___ ___ Write your Total Number of True and False Answers for Step 5. ___ ___ Step 6 I feel like I am growing and advancing in my career. ___ ___ I would know when it’s time to make a change in my work. ___ ___ I re-assess my work and life goals each year. ___ ___ I meet with professional colleagues to share and learn about each other’s work. ___ ___ I have a mentor who supports my career development. ___ ___ Write your Total Number of True and False Answers for Step 6. ___ ___ Interpreting Your Scores The ideal situation and ultimate goal is for you to answer all five statements as ‘true’ for each of the sections. This would suggest that you have developed a high level of personal career management competence in your life. However, most individuals find that there are a few areas that they need to learn more about in order to be successful in today’s workplace. If you scored less than 3 out of any 5 for any of the above sections, you would benefit from reviewing and evaluating that step first as to where you need to ‘start’ in your career management: Step 1 – Self Assessment: This is the foundation for the whole process of career planning and critical to professional success! You need to understand who you are and what your strengths and weaknesses are before you can make effective career decisions. The more you understand yourself, the better you will be able to write focused resumes, present yourself favorably in interviews and get the job you really want. Step 2 – Research: In order to know how to connect your strengths and weaknesses to the world of work, it is important that you conduct extensive occupational research, take classes to help you to learn, and talk to professionals about opportunities that would match the nature of your interests and talents. Step 3 – Decision Making: It is important to be able to make healthy decisions about where you are going. This involves setting short-term and long-term goals, creating specific action plans and following up on your planned activities. Step 4 – Networks and Contacts: This refers to the process of making contacts, and building your business relationships. The process includes all of job search activities; such as networking, writing a specific marketing plan, memorizing your achievements, resume writing, writing a one-minute script, conducting an effective work search and presenting your qualifications in an interview. Step 5 – Work: Here you need to learn how to negotiate work offers, and salary in order to create success in your career progression. Step 6 – Life/Work Planning: This sets the stage for re-evaluation. Your needs and desires will change as you gain experience over the next few years. It is important to review your needs and the opportunities that are available on a regular basis throughout your life and career.