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, transferrable skills; hard skills are critical skills necessary to perform work-related tasks.
Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.
9
Chapter 1 Preparing for Your Career