Career Planning Process: The Cornerstone of Career Success |
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Successful career development is a life-long process. The first step in successful career development is effective career planning.
At the Career Centre we believe that the major you choose or the career you seek should represent positive steps in your path to a rewarding future. When you understand yourself and are informed about your options, you will have the tools to make choices which will enable you to be successful in whichever career direction you aspire.
Career consultants can provide you with information on many occupations based on your interests, skills, preferences, past experiences, education and training. If you require a career advising appointment, you should be prepared to commit two to three hours of time over a three to four week interval – one hour to attend the Career Planning workship, 30 minutes to complete one or more assessment tools, one hour to attend a debrief session if you choose to complete assessment tools and a 45 minute follow-up appointment with a Career Consultant to further discuss your individual situation.
Career consultants may recommend a self-assessment tool, which will be delivered and interpreted by trained staff. Frequently used tools include TYPEFOCUS™ and the Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), self-assessment inventories designed to assist you in identifying your preferences as they are related to career strengths and weaknesses, what type of setting or environment you may need to enhance your career satisfaction and what types of careers may be suited to your personality. The inventory takes about 15 - 20 minutes to complete. There is a cost of $5 for TYPEFOCUS™ and there is a cost of $25 for the MBTI.
What Is the Career Planning Process?
Career planning involves taking the time to understand yourself and your options for the purpose of making wise academic and informed career choices and plans. Too many people are unemployed, underemployed or unhappily employed! Whether you are on your first or your third career, we encourage you to take the time to assume control of the direction and progression of your career path through a comprehensive and honest navigation of the career planning process.5 Steps in Successful Career Planning
 Self-Awareness Know yourself, your preferences, needs, desires
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 Career Awareness Know what careers are available and what they involve
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 Career Immersion Engage in specific career-related learning and activities
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 Evaluation and Decision Making Review your options and make informed decisions
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 Planning Know yourself, your preferences, needs, desires
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View the First-year Student’s Career Planning Timetable.
What Can I Do with a Degree in...
Your degree or field of study does not define or limit your career choices. However, by investigating some of the careers others who share your degree have pursued, you may discover some ideas you had not previously considered.Start early! It always makes sense to begin working toward a direction as soon as possible, particularly as your career decision may entail specific academic requirements or experiences. We have prepared a handout for each major to help you identify some career possibilities.