SOURCES OF CAREER INFORMATION

The following are some major sources of information on careers.

Use of Personal Contacts

One of the best resources can be the people you know, such as friends and family. Families and friends can be extremely helpful in providing career information. While they may not always have the information needed, they may know other knowledgeable people and be able to put the information seeker in touch with them. These contacts can lead to an "information interview," which usually means talking to someone who can provide information about a company or career. These people can give information on required training for the job, promotions opportunities, and likes or dislikes of the job. 

Career Guidance Counsellors 

Counsellors can be helpful sources of career information. The help the clients in making choices about which careers might suit them best. Counsellors can help students determine what occupations suit their skills by testing their aptitude for various types of work, and determining the strengths and interests. Counsellors can help one evaluate their options and search for a job in their field or help in selecting a new field altogether. They can also help students determine which educational or training institutions best fit their goals, and find ways to finance them. Some counsellors offer other services such as interview coaching, curriculum vitae (résumé) writing, and help in filling out college entry forms. 

Career Counselling Department in Schools

Counsellors in secondary schools and postsecondary institutions may arrange and invite guest speakers and career professionals, organise for field trips and career days, or job fairs as some of the ways of providing career information to the students. The career counselling department should also have career information resources such as books, career journals, newspapers, college bulletins and where possible internet. Information contained in career guidance materials should be current. It is wise to find a number of sources, since one resource might glamorize one occupation over others, overstate the earnings, or exaggerate the demand for workers in the field. Students can receive career counselling, testing, and advice on degree programme choice and can also use career resource materials maintained by department offices.

Local Libraries 

Libraries can be a convenient place to look for information and an invaluable source of information. Since most areas have libraries, they can. Also, for those who do not otherwise have access to the Internet or e-mail, many libraries provide this access. Libraries may have information on job openings, locally and nationally; potential contacts within occupations or industries; colleges and financial aid; vocational training; individual businesses or careers; and writing résumés or curriculum vitae. Libraries frequently have subscriptions to various trade magazines that can provide information on occupations and industries. These sources often have references to organizations which can provide additional information about training and employment opportunities. Libraries may also have video materials. Libraries offer a great deal of information about careers and job training. Begin by searching the catalogue under "vocations" or "careers" and then look under specific fields of work that match areas of interest. For instance, those who like working with animals can find descriptions about the work of veterinarians and veterinary assistants, zoologists, animal trainers, breeders, groomers, and others whose occupations involve working with animals. Trade publications and magazines describe and discuss many kinds of work in various fields.