Career Planning
GENPCD101B and GENPCD201B
(incorporating GENJSI101B and GENJAS201B)
GETTING THE JOB, FINDING A CAREER.
It is now likely that you will be working for the next 60 years and have several different careers!!!
How you approach your career search will determine how enjoyable those 60 years will be.
STAGES TO COMPLETE:
1. DEVELOPING A CAREER PLAN.
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Research the jobs you would like to do?
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Decide whether you are suited for that job.
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Find out as much as you can about the job.
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Get as much experience as possible which relates to that job.
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Look at any pre-requisites and educational qualifications you may need.
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Prepare a portfolio to demonstrate your interests and abilities for your chosen
career/s.
2. START TO DEVELOP YOUR OWN CAREER STORY:
How well can you answer these questions?
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do you know enough about yourself - your interests, abilities,
personality, etc.?
have you enough information about the options you are
considering (work and study)?
have you sought the advice of other people?
are you taking into account only present considerations, or are
you thinking of the future?
have you reached a decision yourself, or have you been forced
into it in some way?
Have your decisions been affected by:
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what your friends think of your actions?
the expectations of your parents?
probably incorrect information which "someone" has told you?
trouble with, or a dislike of, your present situation?
little or no guidance from others?
taking the "easy" way out?
traditional stereotypes i.e. "that's no job for a man"?
GETTING TO KNOW YOURSELF.
I. PREVIOUS ACTIVITIES: Remember things you have done in school and
outside. What experiences, achievements, failures, qualifications, can you
relate to a career or add to your resume?
What have you done that a potential employer would find valuable?
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II. PRESENT: Look at your present physical features, personality, attitudes,
interests, abilities, skills, values. Make a list of each and apply to your
career search. It is always useful to have more than one option to consider.
A. What special physical features might be necessary to perform the
following jobs?
Chef, newspaper reporter, fire fighter, printer, truck driver, gardener, punk singer,
butcher, foundry worker, pilot, parent with young children, letter box distributor,
model, electrician, police officer, musician, actor/actress, plumber, artist, air traffic
controller, miner, teacher, jockey, piano tuner, sign writer, T.V. announcer,
hairdresser, jeweller, gym instructor, beautician, nurse, herballist, doctor, public
servant, bar attendant, locksmith, ticket collector, bus driver, bricklayer,
receptionist.
Are there any jobs you could not do because of physical limitations?
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B. PERSONALITY: What personal characteristics do you think you have?
Would other people say the same about you? Check this out.
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Teacher?
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Friend?
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Family member?
 Employer?
Do they match those required for your possible career?
Check the Job Guide for the characteristics required for these jobs:
Youth worker, politician, lawyer, teacher, artist, retail manager, computer
operator, electrician, chef.
C. ATTITUDES: Employers ask for people with the right attitude.
What attitudes do think employers are looking for? Remember they are paying
your wage and look for employees who are cost effective!
Circle your attitude to WORK:
slack, dedicated, disorganised, efficient, keen, effective, ambitious,
industrious, innovative, hard working, hyperactive, persistent, uncaring,
sincere, academic, practical, responsible, lazy, businesslike, flippant,
mature, bored, organised, positive, punctual, reliable, immature,
adaptable, negative.
Circle your attitude to your FRIENDS/WORKMATES:
cooperative, cheesed off, aloof, independent, superior, inferior, equal,
competitive, thoughtful, sympathetic, inspiring, caring, racist, bored,
irritable, protective, helpful, shy, quarrelsome, tolerant, friendly, trusting,
polite, moody, pushy, aggressive, supportive, sexist.
Circle your attitude to AUTHORITY:
dependable, rebellious, angry, subservient, scared, eager to please,
stubborn, loyal, crawler, cautious, suspicious, happy, argumentative,
sneaky, open, assertive, passive, aggressive, tolerant, proud, cynical.
Comment on the attitudes you have which could affect your career choice? If
these are negative, then you will need to work on them.
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REMEMBER YOUR BODY LANGUAGE CAN INDICATE YOUR ATTITUDE
TOWARDS SOMETHING. It only takes TEN SECONDS FOR someone TO
GAIN AN IMPRESSION OF YOU.
D. ABILITY and INTEREST:
It is important to be able to have the ability to perform the tasks required within a
job. If you enjoy performing certain tasks, then by finding a career that includes
those interest areas could make your job more successful.
By looking through the Job Guide, identify the ability and interests required for
possible careers you may consider. Do you have to work on any?
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E. VALUES:
Values are the things that we believe in and which we think are important. Each
person has a value system which has been influenced by their background and
their philosophy of life. You could find that a job which supports your value
system will interest and motivate you far more than a job which goes against your
values.
Because there is a strong relationship between jobs and lifestyle, the things
which you value in your lifestyle - income, location, free time, etc. - can also play
an important part in your career choice.
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QUESTIONS:
1. Identify 10 values that are important to you and rank them
2. Do you think that there are some jobs you just couldn't do because of what
you believe?
3. Are there some things or jobs you would prefer NOT to do because of what
you believe?
4. Are there some you would REFUSE to do even if they were the only available
option?
III. YOUR FUTURE:
Ask yourself these questions... Your answers will indicate the level of commitment you will need
to get the career to match your future lifestyle.
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What goals do I have?
What type of life would I like to lead?
When would I like to get married?
How many children would I like to have?
What would I like to be well known for?
What standard of living would I like?
What education level would I like to reach?
Where would I like to travel to?
In what ways can I grow as a person?
What steps am I taking now to achieve the future I want?
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IDENTIFYING MY CAREER AS ………………………
JOB DESCRIPTION
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Briefly describe the main tasks that are involved in the job.
What would I be expected to do?- handle money, tools, people, sit, stand, lift, walk, be
indoors/outdoors, with others/by my self, doing hard/easy tasks, enough variety in job, what
would I like/dislike about this?
Who would I be working with and how closely?
Are other workers my age or younger/older?
Would I deal with customers, suppliers or visitors? Who? When? Where? Why?
Who can help me if I need it?
PERSONAL QUALITIES NEEDED
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What general abilities and special skills are needed?
Can these be developed later if I don't have them now?
Does the job suit those school subjects I did well in?
Are any special qualities, manner, behaviour or character needed? Is a strong physique
necessary?
 Have I any physical disabilities (include health problems) which could prevent me doing this
job?
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
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What level of education is required?
Am I doing the right subjects at school to do this job?
Am I doing well enough in these subjects?
Do I need to do more?
TRAINING
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What special job training is needed?
Do I need to do any special courses?
Where are they done?
How long will it take?
Are they full time or part-time?
How much will it cost?
Who pays for it?
Do I get paid during my training?
Can I get any scholarships or allowances to help me meet any costs?
PROMOTION PROSPECTS
 What higher levels will this job lead to?
 What must I do to get further in the job?
 Will there be jobs in the future?
 Is the industry growing, stable or declining?
 What are the chances of promotion within a particular firm, or with other firms?
 Does the firm provide courses, or time off for study?
 Will training and experience in this field allow me to get a different job later on in Iife?
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METHOD OF ENTRY
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Is there a standard method of entering the job such as an apprenticeship, cadetship, etc.?
If so, what are the special conditions to it?
Are there any age, height, weight, etc. limits?
Is it hard to get a position in this type of work?
When, where and how often are vacancies advertised?
Is it a popular job with others?
EFFECTS ON MY LIFESTYLE
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How much will my work interfere with, or improve, my life outside of work?
How will my free time be affected-overtime, taking work home, travelling time?
What would my family and friends think of this job?
How would it affect my dress, appearance, manner, health, social life?
What unpleasant strains will this job place on me?
Will I get the satisfactions I want from this job?
What hours are usually worked?
When are the breaks during the day?
What is the pay?
How often will I get paid?
Are there any extra financial rewards - overtime, bonuses, etc.?
Are any earnings on a commission basis?
What are the retirement provisions?
How much sick leave and holiday leave will I get?
IV RESOURCES YOU NEED AND WHERE TO GET HELP:
PERSONAL RESOURCES: your knowledge, your skills, your abilities, your interests, the goals
you have set, your motivation to succeed, your values.
PRINTED RESOURCES: books which contain job information, course handbooks, brochures,
fliers, posters, books on how to write application letters and resumes, newspapers, feature
articles, magazines, Job Guide.
HUMAN RESOURCES: careers counsellors, course advisers, information officers, personnel
officers, workers in the job, ex-students, parents, relatives, friends, teachers.
COMPUTER RESOURCES: job and course databases, Internet WWW sites, ability and interest
inventory tests, word processors, printers, resume writing programs, information on how to write
application letters and resumes.
www.carersonline.com.au www.scips.org.au www.jobsearch.gov.au
ACTIVITIES: attendance at special careers events/expos, course open days, information
evenings, careers markets, work experience, voluntary work, completion of other courses, your
hobbies.
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BUILDING YOUR PORTFOLIO
As you prepare for your working future, it is necessary to develop the right tools to help make
your search more successful. Your Job Guide will give you detailed information on each stage.
The SCIPS website also contains useful advice and examples for you to use: www.scips.org.au
(Remember, even if you go on to further study it is likely that you will need to find part-time work
to help support yourself).
APPLYING FOR A POSITION IN TODAY’S WORKPLACE:
Be aware that not all jobs are advertised. Many are found though personal networks. Start
building yours.
Many jobs also require applications to be made on line and it is really important that you complete
each section correctly and concisely. Print out the application form and practice your answers for
someone to check – especially if you have to answer selection criteria.
Be aware that companies often provide employment opportunities on their web sites rather than
advertise in general employment columns. Check out their website for information to include in
your application. Company values are useful to weave into your cover letter.
YOU WILL NEED:
 An application letter
 A resume
 Information about interview techniques
THE APPLICATION LETTER
1. YOUR APPLICATION LETTER - Your Job Search Is A Marketing Campaign...
An application letter accompanies your resume and introduces you to the employer. It can
determine whether you get past the first stage of selection or not. It creates the first impression
an employer will have of you so it MUST BE EXCELLENT. Get someone to check it for spelling
and grammar. Mistakes are costly! YOU Are The Product... Your Application Letter Is The
Salesperson!
Remember This Fact: A Resume Can't SELL... An Application Letter MUST.
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Your application letter is the ONLY chance you have to "sell" yourself for the opportunity
to be interviewed for the job.
Resumes DO NOT sell. They're not built to sell. And most of the time, unless your resume is
outstanding, it can actually end up hurting your job search!
A brilliantly-worded application letter is the ULTIMATE sales letter and practically no one
understands this fact. Most application letters do nothing to land the job interview. One "typical",
"average" application letter attached to your resume can KILL months of your precious time,
producing little to no results, while providing you nothing but stress and anxiety in return. One
brilliantly-worded application letter can change your life overnight. It's all in the WORDS.
Usually, 95% of application letters didn't even get a second glance and their respective resumes
are ignored altogether.
Date
Human Resources (Contact person if possible),
COMPANY NAME HERE
ADDRESS
Dear ……..
RE: NAME OF VACANT POSITION
I am very interested in working with your company as your (POSITION TITLE). As you will see from my
resume, I am qualified in a variety of areas. (Or I am uniquely qualified for this position because of my
skills and experience in …).
My qualifications include ……… and I have similar experience in the workplace from
…………………………..
I regard myself as (list qualities that would be valuable here) and I have demonstrated these
by…………………..
I am anxious to discuss this opportunity with you further.
Yours faithfully (if name not known) or sincerely (if name is known) ,
Your signature
Your name
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Remember your resume is a 60 second commercial to convince others of your abilities to
solve their problems.
2. YOUR RESUME:
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Why do you need a résumé?
The resume contains ALL the essential information about you that an employer needs
to know.
If you don't have one, you will find it very difficult to communicate with
employers when looking for work!
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How and when can you use one?
A résumé is useful in so many ways. For example, it can be:
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attached to an application letter
left at an office after a personal visit
help you remember important details when talking over the phone or in an interview
given to friends and other people (your network) so they know your skills etc
useful when filling in application forms since it contains all your "correct" details
spare copies can be given to other people in a panel interview situation
What should a résumé look like?
Just like the application letter, it creates the impression about you.
Make sure it is correct and well written. Do not add photographs or use fancy paper and coloured
borders. Keep it plain and simple. A resume should be at least a page long and will grow as you
gain more experience and skills.
4. How can you change your résumé to suit a particular job? Would it be worth it?
Your resume should also be a fluid document and change according to the applications you are
using it for. So you may have several relating to part-time work, full-time employment application,
entry into a community group.
Create a "master" copy of your résumé information on your computer. With each application,
check out the particular requirements of the position, and change things around to reflect those
things thought to be important by the employer.
You'll make their job easier and you will be noticed more in the "culling" stages (that's where they
decide who does NOT get interviewed).
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WHAT A RESUME SHOULD CONTAIN: (Add your own personality to it)
NAME
Full name, surname in CAPITALS.
ADDRESS
Full address, including postcode.
PHONE NUMBER
Include mobile
EMAIL
Use a contact that is appropriate and more formal.
DATE OF BIRTH
In full 7th April, 1977.
EDUCATIONAL DETAILS
List details of your latest educational qualification - eg for school leavers, where you attended high school, and in
what years. List the results of your School Certificate or your latest report card - subjects studied, level of
achievement, attitude, etc. List any school academic prizes that you have won.
OTHER COURSES
List the details of any further education - what, where, when - e.g. any TAFE/trade courses? Any special
certificates such as First Aid?
WORK EXPERIENCE
In this section, list the type of jobs done, and the location of all places you've worked at in your holidays, part-time,
or casually, or any school Work Experience Program, and when. Also include approximate
INTERESTS AND HOBBIES
List some of your leisure time activities to give the employer some idea of what you are like. Make sure that you
don't list things about which you know very little - you may get caught out! Don't say you like watching T.V. or other
equally "useless" pastimes. Mention any special skills you may have - good at public speaking, art, soccer team,
etc. Try to pick those personal interests which may be relevant to the job you are applying for.
REFEREES
In this section, list the names, title and address of the people who have said they will act as a referee for you. You
could just simply say, "References can be supplied upon request" making sure that you can.
A good application letter and resume should lead to the next stage – the interview.
Be prepared to answer questions about the information in your resume at an interview. It is worth
taking a copy with you to refer to.
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3.
THE INTERVIEW
Your resume has landed you a job interview and now you must make the most of a "face-to-face"
meeting to land the role. Being as prepared as possible is the key to success in the interview
game.
Preparation for the interview:
Research – find out as much as you can about the company and use this information in the
interview.
Appearance.
Take extra care with your appearance. Ensure your clothes are clean and well ironed. Check for
stains, stray threads and loose buttons. Avoid visual distractions such as loud ties, chipped nail
polish, heavy make up, sheer fabrics, heavy ear rings, jewelry that jangles, overpowering
fragrances and unwashed hair or hair that flops into your eyes or needs constant pushing back.
As the interviewer will be comparing your skills and abilities with those of others, it is essential that you prepare so
that you can present yourself successfully. Careful preparation for the interview will also help you to feel more
confident.
Do the following to ensure that you are fully prepared for the interview, this will also help with nerves as
you will be more comfortable and confident because you know something about the position and the
company:
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practice interviews with friends, school staff or family
find out all you can about the position such as the duties you will have to perform. You can ask someone
at school to help you.
take your resume and cover letter to the interview, as well as a list of questions you may want to ask
re-read your letter of application and the details of the job advertisement, especially if it is some time since
you applied for the job or if it your first time applying for a position.
re-read a copy of your résumé as you will probably be questioned on statements you have made.
At the interview
The person/people interviewing you could be an employer, a recruitment officer or employment consultant.
Sometimes there may be a panel of two or three interviewers. Most interviewers realise that you will be nervous
and will make allowances for it. You can create a good impression by being:
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punctual—be at least 10 minutes early. This will also give you the chance to familiarise yourself with your
surroundings (which may help you relax). You may be tense, so try using a relaxation technique that
works for you, such as deep breathing
dressed suitably—wear your best work outfit. The things to remember are cleanliness, simplicity, no
strong or 'loud' colours, and no midriff (or belly) showing. Below is a table of how to prepare yourself for a
job interview.
well prepared—take your job application and resume folder to the interview, as well as a list of questions
you may want to ask
polite—have the right attitude whenever you speak or answer questions. Remember to smile and shake
hands when you meet the person who will interview you
thoughtful—take time to think a question through and then answer in a clear and logical way
confident—ask the interviewer to repeat or explain a question if you do not understand it
calm—an interviewer may be aggressive in order to test your ability to remain calm in a stressful situation.
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Questions employers might ask
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Why do you think you are suitable for this position?
Why would you like this job?
What qualifications do you have for this job?
Why have you applied for this job?
What are your strengths/weaknesses/faults?
Do you work well with others, as part of a team?
Are you willing to undertake more study?
Why do you think we should employ you?
What have you got to offer us?
What do you know about this organisation?
Are you a member of any clubs or organisations?
Questions you might ask
An interviewer will often ask you at the end of the interview if you have any questions. Be
prepared. Asking questions is one way of showing you are prepared and interested in
the job.
Some of the things you might want to know about are:
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more details about what the job actually involves, including daily duties and hours of
work
what the prospects are for advancement and training and whether training is on the
job or after hours
the time it will take to notify applicants whether they have been successful or not.
After your interview
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At the end of the interview, thank the interviewers for their time, by name if you can
remember them.
If the interview results in a direct offer for the job and you are sure that the job meets
your needs, accept it.
If you are unsure about accepting the job and wish to discuss it with others, ask if you
could think it over and let them know the next day.
If you have not heard from an employer after a reasonable time, it is a good idea to
follow up and ask if they have reached a decision. It shows you are still interested.
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There are other forms of interviews today so make sure you are prepared for the type of
interview you will be attending.
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Group interview:
You are one of several people being interviewed together through a number of group problemsolving activities.
Often role-playing will be involved with one candidate acting as the angry customer while another
plays the staff member applying a solution that the group has come up with. Candidates might be
asked to stand up and tell everyone a bit about themselves and why they believe their attributes
suit one of the roles on offer.
The best way to prepare is ask for a job description. Spend some time thinking about why your
skills and personal attributes would suit that description. Read up on the company using its
website as a source. Rehearse talking about yourself and role-playing with family members. This
helps calm nerves and enables you to practice a firm handshake, good eye contact and listening
skills as well as speaking clearly and loudly enough for all to hear.
You may also be asked to take part in a game where you have to solve a problem. Remember to
be a team player and bring out your strengths as your interaction could determine where you
could be placed within the company.
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Behavioural interview:
During this type of interview, you will need to be able to relate your past experiences and
activities to selected questions asked by the interviewer. For example you could be asked to
show where you displayed team leadership skills or took responsibility for a particular task. It is
important to check up on the company’s values and the requirements for the job and think of
possible scenarios.
REMEMBER Many employers are more interested in you having the right attitude and demonstrating what you
have done with your talents than hearing about the talents you possess.
Employers are most concerned about your personal qualities. They assume that you would not
apply for their positions if you did not have the skills they required. Keep in mind that many others
applying for positions probably have the same skills as you, so a good attitude to work could be
the deciding factor.
USEFUL WEBSITES:
General information and jobs - www.careersonline.com.au www.seek.com.au
www.careerone.com.au www.jobsearch.gov.au www.jobguide.dest.gov.au
www.cis.qsa.qld.edu.au
Australian Apprenticeship vacancies and samples of folio info www.scips.org.au
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Interview Checklist
Name:
1. Punctual
2. Suitable Dressed
3. Prepared Folder
 Resume
 Job Application
 Checklist of Questions to ask
4. Polite and Courteous Manner
 Smiles appropriately
 Shake hands
5. Pays Attention during Interview
 Uses name of interviewer
 Maintains eye contact to answer questions
 Listens carefully
 Clarifies questions if not sure
6. Responses to Questions-Enthusiastic, Positive and Sells Oneself
 Tells positive characteristics about themselves
 Informs why they would be a good employee
 Gives concise answers to questions (Not too short/ long)
7. Asks Questions
 Asks questions about the job and duties (refers to checklist)
 Asks what is the next step-Will they call you and when?
8. Shows Appreciation
 Thanks Interviewer
Interviewer Comments
CAREER SUCCESS SKILLS
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