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 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 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: Hudson’s Bay Job Type: Full Time Duration: Permanent Required Travel: Frequent Salary: Commensurate with experience Location: Montreal, Quebec, Canada 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 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