CAREER MAPPING

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FOUR KEY ELEMENTS1. Finding the Big Picture2. Do some Research3. Start Marketing yourself4. Plan for the unexpected

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FINDING THE BIG PICTURE Step back and examine your position Ask yourself these questions:

How far into the future do you want to plan?What job characteristics are most

important? Location Salary Room for promotion/different job types

Is there flexibility for unexpected detours? Eg. Your spouse/partner finds job in different city.

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DO SOME RESEARCH Planning is not a stationary act. Effective career mapping is gathering

information:Read trade magazines and professional

industry analysis Interview industry experts (Informational

interview)Find a mentor who is already successful in

job/industry you aspire to.Don’t forget the Web.

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START MARKETING YOURSELF

Determine how to get yourself on path.Your market plan must be in

tune with your personality – remember your self-assessment.

Make contact with companies/industries you see in your future.

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START MARKETING YOURSELF Market Identification

Decide on companies/industires to which you want to sell yourself.

Be specific Strength/Weakness Identification

SWOT analysis (Strengths-Weaknesses-Opportunities-Threats)

Self-AssessmentHave friends compile list of +/-

characteristics Mission (Work Philosophy)

StatementRequires you to concisely explain your

goals.

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PLAN FOR THE UNEXPECTED As you plan your career map you may

realize that you are off course – make adjustments – change directions.

Consider financial stability – can I afford to carry on?

Personal/Family considerations Health issues