Experiences from the past can indicate direction for
the future. People who started new jobs but quit soon
after their hiring dates were likely working in a position
that did not match their aptitudes. Some people begin
a job or career and then realize that it was not as they
had imagined. To effectively plan for a career, consider
your interests. Working in a field that interests you will
increase your chances for a happier, more fulfilling work
experience. For example, students are likely to get bet-
ter grades in the classes with subjects they find inter-
esting than in the classes they find boring. The subjects
you found interesting can lead to possible career direc-
tions. Finding enjoyable work begins with finding inter-
esting work.
Complete 1-3 Aptitudes Inventory, pg 21
CONNECT TO YOUR
CAREER
Abilities
Your aptitudes and skills are just the beginning of what
employers seek. An employer will list a variety of abili-
ties as part of a job posting. An ability is a mastery of a y
skill or the capacity to do something. Having aptitudes
and skills is supported or limited by your abilities. For
instance, a college student who has a musical aptitude
and skills to reinforce it might not have the ability to
perform under pressure in musical concerts. An ideal job
placement is one in which a person’s aptitudes, skills, and
abilities align with one another. Examples of must-have
abilities in job postings often include the following:
• assist others with little or no direction
• effectively handle multiple projects
• implement visual designs
• speak multiple languages
• think logically
• work long hours without tiring
It is important to determine your abilities when it
comes to performing all the requirements of any job
before applying. Even if all of the qualifications match
on paper, a missing ability may mean it is necessary to
continue looking for other opportunities.
Complete 1-4 Abilities Assessment, pg 21
CONNECT TO YOUR
CAREER
Personality
Personality is the unique blend of qualities that predict y
attitudes, values, and work habits, such as dependabil-
ity, loyalty, and natural motivation. Your personality is
tied to how you think and relate to others around you.
In order to gain insight to your personality type for the
purpose of career exploration, consider taking a person-
ality assessment. Personality assessments can guide you
as you explore potential career areas of interest.
Quality Maintenance Technician II
Company Name: Sears Import
Job Type: Full Time
Duration: Permanent
Required Travel: Frequent
Salary: Commensurate with experience
Location: Banning, California, USA
Job Description
The Quality Maintenance Technician II (QMTII) will provide unit-level support for maintenance and safety
standards, to include the performance of preventive maintenance checks, and review of in-store maintenance
procedures as assigned, in full-line stores and off-mall stores. The QMTII assists the assigned stores in
maintaining the standards and disciplines needed to provide a high level of customer satisfaction while
minimizing energy usage. The person seeking this position should be a self-starter, be proficient in completing g p
tasks in the required time frame, and have a strong mechanical aptitude. Daily travel is required. This position
reports to the District Facilities Manager.
Goodheart-Willcox Publisher
FIGURE 1-5
An aptitude is a characteristic that an individual has developed naturally. At times, employers ask for a specific
aptitude as opposed to formal training.
Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.
7
Chapter 1 Preparing for Your Career