research, translate into proficient and employable skills. In addition to a host of technology tools at your dis- posal, you probably rely on apps to navigate directions, check the weather, or even purchase movie tickets. Do not take your technology skills for granted. Com- pleting a technology skills assessment can help you as you create a career plan. A technology skills assessment is a process in which an individual documents software and other technology skills that he or she possesses. It begins with identifying specific technology and then determining your level of skill with it. The assessment reveals the technology you use on a daily basis and the knowledge you possess about it. You will use this infor- mation with your current proficiencies as part of the data you gather to organize your job search. It also helps identify gaps that you need to fill during the next two to four years. This gives you an opportunity to research what is needed in your career so that you may identify new skills that will be necessary for you to be success- ful. This assessment will also be of importance when the résumé-writing process begins. A sample technol- ogy assessment is illustrated in Figure 1-7. Technology Skills Assessment Technology Current Proficiency Level Desired Level of Accomplishment Novice Experienced User Expert Novice Experienced User Expert Facebook X X Instagram X X LinkedIn X X Microsoft Word X X Pinterest X X Twitter X X Tumblr X X YouTube X X WordPress X X Goodheart-Willcox Publisher FIGURE 1-7 A technology skills assessment is a process in which an individual documents software and other technology skills that he or she possesses. Soft Skills Hard Skills • active listening • effective communication • flexibility • integrity • motivation • patience • problem solving • self-confidence • teamwork • time management • trustworthiness • accounting • carpentry • computer programming • data analysis • graphic design • machine operation • manufacturing • marketing • nursing • welding • writing Goodheart-Willcox Publisher FIGURE 1-6 Soft skills are applicable, transferable skills hard skills are critical skills necessary to perform work-related tasks. Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. 9 Chapter 1 Preparing for Your Career