Self-assessment
By reflecting on your values, interests, personality traits and skills (VIPS), you gain insight that can help you uncover your optimal career path and work environment.
Use self-evaluation questions and career inventories. Schedule an appointment with an educational advisor, and in the meantime, read on to start discovering your VIPs.
Building on what you have*
Because career planning is an ongoing process that involves both life and work, it helps you build on what you already have, such as...
your employability skills. Also known as transferable or soft skills, these are fundamental, personal and teamwork skills you need to succeed in every workplace. No matter what type of work you choose to do, your employability skills will travel with you.
your specific skills and interests. Technical skills that you develop through employment or on your own can become the basis for successful work. Talents, hobbies and recreational activities can lead you in new directions. For example, skills that you develop now as a volunteer can apply later to paid employment or even your own small business venture.
your feelings about your work and life. If you are bored with your job or it looks like the work you're doing now might not have much of a future, career planning can help you figure out how and when to make changes. If you're passionate about one of your interests or hobbies, career planning could help you turn it into a small business.
* adapted from CAREERinsite HELP
Free Self Assessments
- Career Cruising: username: malaspina password: malaspina
- Idea Generator - Sheridan College
- Career Compass - Work BC
- Blueprint Builder - WorkBC