OVERVIEW Think about it. The average person spends at least 30 percent of his or her time each day at work. Finding a career that will satisfy you in your work life is probably high on your list of priorities. The first step in the career-search process starts with career planning. Career planning begins with conducting a self-assessment to evaluate your aptitudes, skills, abilities, and values. Through this assessment, you can focus your energy on what is necessary for you to accomplish in order to become a successful candidate for employment. Once your assessment is complete, you will be ready to set goals and create a plan that can move you closer to your chosen career. Preparing for Your Career Outcomes 1 Explain the concept of career preparation. 2 State the purpose of a career plan. 3 Discuss the importance of self-assessment as a step in career planning. 4 Identify two types of personal skills that should be a part of a skills assessment. 5 Explain the purpose of setting SMART goals. 6 Discuss career pathing options. 7 Defi ne a career portfolio. CONNECT TO YOUR CAREER Workplace Connection 1-1 Emerging Occupations 1-2 Career Plan 1-3 Aptitudes Inventory 1-4 Abilities Assessment 1-5 Values Assessment 1-6 Skills Inventory 1 CHAPTER 2 Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.