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What Color Is Your Parachute? A Practical Manual for Job-hunters and Career-changers

summary ofWhat Color Is Your Parachute? A Practical Manual for Job-hunters and Career-changersBook by Richard N. Bolles

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You’ll learn

  • What is hiding behind self-inventory
  • The power of the flower diagram method
  • Where to look for a bridge-person
  • What's wrong with paper resumes

first KEY POINT

Change your approach to finding the best job

The job market reflects economic changes and the general world rhythm. In the past, you could work in one place for years and be proud of it. Today, finding and applying for new jobs is a fundamental skill. The rapid pace of global development and the emergence of innovative technologies force job seekers to adapt to the game's new rules. Computers are replacing humans in some jobs, while some roles are being reimagined and require a human-machine partnership.What does this mean for you as a job seeker? You must be flexible and ready to learn new skills.

Success isn't only about doing your job well; it's also about knowing the secrets of effective hiring.

It seems simple: keep discovering new things and be ready for changes. However, this can be difficult in practice because you still need to figure out where to start.The first step is to get to know yourself better. You may already have the skills, knowledge, and abilities to land your dream job. But you can determine what you already know and need to learn with a self-inventory.With this approach, you'll see you are not a passive player that the company chooses or not; you are an equal participant with the power to show your value and influence the employer's opinion. You will no longer have to settle for any job, choosing from available ads, because you will realize your strengths and unique talents. Companies create new positions for those who know their value and how to demonstrate it. Sounds intriguing, doesn't it? Prepare to go deep into methods of finding your dream job.

second KEY POINT

Make your search for work a full-time job

To find the job of your dreams, you must make an organized and consistent effort. It is not enough to look at new ads a few times a week and respond to some. You have to approach this task creatively and thoroughly. If your efforts are not producing results, you probably need to increase your time searching and change your approach.

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first KEY POINT

Find out who you are to find your dream job

second KEY POINT

Do your research before you dive in

third KEY POINT

Take control of your internet image

fourth KEY POINT

Attune yourself to a successful job interview

fifth KEY POINT

Don't look for a new job; create one

sixth KEY POINT

Conclusion

About the author

Richard N. Bolles is a former Harvard physics major, career counselor, and best-selling author.

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Frequently asked questions

What is What Color Is Your Parachute? A Practical Manual for Job-hunters and Career-changers about?

What Color Is Your Parachute? A Practical Manual for Job-hunters and Career-changers, authored by Richard N. Bolles, provides practical strategies and insights for individuals navigating job searches and career transitions. The book emphasizes self-assessment and personal branding to help readers identify their strengths, skills, and passions for better job alignment.

Are there key takeaways from What Color Is Your Parachute? A Practical Manual for Job-hunters and Career-changers?

Yes, key takeaways from What Color Is Your Parachute? include the importance of self-discovery in career planning and the actionable techniques for job searching, such as networking and leveraging personal connections. It also highlights the innovative 'flower exercise' that aids in identifying relevant job attributes.

Is What Color Is Your Parachute? A Practical Manual for Job-hunters and Career-changers worth reading?

Absolutely, What Color Is Your Parachute? is highly regarded for its practical advice and timeless relevance, making it worth reading for anyone in a job search or considering a career change. Bolles' approachable writing style and comprehensive strategies provide valuable insights that can significantly impact one's career journey.

How many pages is What Color Is Your Parachute? A Practical Manual for Job-hunters and Career-changers and when was it published?

What Color Is Your Parachute? spans approximately 240 pages and was originally published in 1970, with the most recent editions updated to reflect current job market trends. This longevity speaks to the book's enduring value and relevance for career seekers.

What makes What Color Is Your Parachute? A Practical Manual for Job-hunters and Career-changers unique?

What Color Is Your Parachute? stands out due to its blend of practical guidance and personal insights, encouraging readers to take ownership of their job search process. Bolles' use of engaging exercises and real-life examples facilitates a deeper understanding of self and career opportunities.