Chapter Two

Unit Objectives To evaluate factors that influence employment opportunities To apply effective strategies to obtain employment To understand the legal issues when looking for employment To analyze methods that will help you grow and develop your career

Job – work you do just to make money Career – is a commitment to work in a field that you find interesting and fulfilling Requires lifelong training Will affect your lifestyle Will affect your “standard of living” – a measure of quality of life based on the amount of goods and services people can buy.

What do you do best? Aptitudes – your natural abilities What do you enjoy? Interest Inventories – test that help you identify the activities you enjoy. ***Guidance counselors may help point you in the right direction!

Social Trends: Demographic trends: ways people change over time – these changes affect your career opportunities. More working parents More leisure time More elderly living longer Greater demand for career changes

Economic Factors: Poor economy will affect job opportunities Trends in Industry & Technology Computer/telecommunications Heath care Business Services Social services Management Education Financial Services

Part time job Volunteer work Internships – receive training by working with people who are experiences in a field. School clubs – FBLA!

Internship Job Shadowing Volunteer School Activities Where to find out more? Internet Guidance counselors Job Fairs/Employment Agencies

Resume - one page summary or your education, training, experience and qualifications. (pg 47) Chronological – yearly order of education, work and other related information Skills – highlights skills & abilities by category Cover Letter: page48 – personal letter you present with a resume

Always write in blue or black ink Write neatly – print Write “N/A” in any blank area which an answer is not required and does not apply to you. Page 54 in your book

Understand the full package! Pension Plan - retirement plan funded by employer to some degree 401k - popular pension plan - employer may match what you contribute Profit-sharing - company makes annual contribution to your retirement

Legal rights - Discrimination - Age, race, gender, color, mental or physical disabilities Must pay minimum wage (7.25 in NH) Must pay unemployment insurance, Social Security and workers compensation