"Steps" for success

Step 1: Self -assessment (know who you are and what you want)
Personality (MBTI)
Values (Card-sorts)
Skills (Skillscan)
Interests (Strong Inventory)
Knowledge and learning (courses)
Entrepreneurism (taking a chance, leap of faith)
Finances (what do you need to earn in order to thrive?)

Step 2: Research
Career trends (go to O*Net)
Information search
Information interviews (prepare questions ahead of time)
Job shadowing
Gaining experience (internships, volunteer)
Salary (visit salary.com)

Step 3: Decision Making
Career Objectives
Personal Objectives
Goal setting (short and long-term)

Step 4: Networks and contacts (build this before you really need it)
Job search
Resumes and cover letters
Thank you letters and follow-up (always, this WILL make you stand out)
Interviews (prepare, try mock interviews to get ready)

Step 5: Work
Job offers
Success at work (Career management)

Step 6: Life-Work planning
Re-evaluation
and then...

Self-Assessment again ...this series of "steps" is a life-long cycle and you are constantly changing!