288 Part 3 Career Planning
Perhaps you have wondered, “How do I fi nd the best career for me?”
The answer is research. You need to research the careers that match your
job interests and skills as well as offer the job opportunities you want.
Career Research Sources
Many sources are available to help you research careers. These
include local and school libraries, career information guides, the Internet,
guidance counselors, career conferences, and your own observations and
conversations. However, it is up to you to do the research. You must take
the initiative to fi nd information about the careers that interest you. The
more information you learn about careers, the more likely you will be to
select a satisfying one.
Libraries
Your local and school libraries are important sources of career
information. Many books, brochures, magazines, Web sites, DVDs, CDs,
and other sources are available on careers, occupations, job searching,
and training. Once you begin your career information search, you will
probably be amazed at the number of sources available.
As you begin researching careers, be sure to check your library’s
periodical section. Magazine articles are one of your best sources for
current career information. The Occupational Outlook Quarterly, which
is published by the U.S. Department of Labor, is a good source for
providing up-to-date career information. It can also be accessed online at
www.bls.gov/opub/ooq/ooqhome.htm.
Additional magazine articles can be found by searching online
databases such as ArticleFirst, OneFile, and ProQuest. These databases,
and others like them, are available through your school library and the
public library in your community. You can search for articles by subject,
such as careers, or by specifi c careers, such as dental hygienist. See 14-1.
If you have any trouble locating information, do not hesitate to ask
a librarian for help. If you know what careers you want to research, a
librarian can help locate the materials related to your interests.
Career Information Guides
The U.S. Department of Labor provides the following valuable career
information guides. These guides help you learn about occupations and
career options. They can usually be found in your local or school libraries
or school guidance offi ce. These guides are also available online.
• The Occupational Outlook Handbook (www.bls.gov/oco) describes
the training and education needed for various occupations. It lists
expected earnings, working conditions, and future job prospects.
• The Career Guide to Industries (www.bls.gov/oco/cg/cgjobout.htm)
describes the training and education needed for various occupations.
Why is it important to
research careers before
choosing one?
Thinking It
Through
What types of career
planning information
are available in your
school’s guidance
offi ce?
Reflect
Further