GLC2O
Unit 2
Unit 2:
Personal Management
Lesson 6:
Lesson 7:
Lesson 8:
Lesson 9:
Lesson 10:
Accessing and Managing Career Information
Identifying Trends and Opportunities
Managing Change and Entrepreneurship
Searching for Work
Setting Goals and Planning Action
Overall Expectations
Students will:
1 demonstrate understanding of the processes of finding and creating work.
2 demonstrate the ability to use marketing and networking strategies and to
produce personal documentation in searching for work.
3 use appropriate decision-making methods to set learning, community, and work
goals and develop action plans
4 identify changes taking place in their personal lives, their communities, and the
economy and identify strategies to make transitions occur more smoothly
5 demonstrate the ability to use a variety of resources to find information about
learning, work, and community involvement opportunities.
6 identify a broad range of options for present and future learning, work, and
community involvement.
7 demonstrate knowledge of selected fields of work, occupations, and workplace
issues.
8 describe trends in society and the economy that affect work.
Specific Expectations
Students will:
1 identify and describe an occupational classification system and identify
occupational groups in this system that are of interest to them.
2 demonstrate effective used of print, video, and computer-based resources to
locate, select, and evaluate career-related information on the basis of identified
criteria.
3 identify questions that are appropriate for gathering relevant career-related
information and use them effectively in information interviews with people in
selected fields of work.
4 demonstrate the ability to organize selected career information effectively, using
word-processing, database, spreadsheet, and information management software.
5 identify and describe a variety of learning opportunities for secondary school
students, including high school courses, community-based learning and
co-curricular activities.
6 describe and compare a variety of postsecondary learning options, including
university, college, apprenticeship, private training, distance education, and
on-the-job training
7 identify a broad range of local and regional work opportunities
8 describe various forms of self-employment, the characteristics of successfully
self-employed people, and the advantages and disadvantages of
self-employment as a career option.
9 demonstrate understanding of how to maintain safety in the workplace and
identify employees’ and employers rights and responsibilities.
10 demonstrate understanding of selected fields of work including emerging trends,
sample occupations, and ways that high school students can prepare for those
fields.
11 identify and describe economic and societal trends.
12 demonstrate knowledge of selected occupations, including education/training
requirements, duties, employment prospects, and the knowledge and skills
valued by employers.
13 explain how economic and societal trends influence the way in which work is
done, the patterns of adult work life, and the growth and decline of various
occupations and fields of work.
14 demonstrate understanding of transitions and change by identifying some of the
personal and work-related transitions and changes that they, their families, and
people in their communities have experienced.
15 demonstrate understanding that career development is a lifelong process that will
include transition, changes, and lifelong learning.
16 identify effective and ineffective ways of dealing with transitions and change.
17 demonstrate an understanding of both the open job market and the hidden job
market and identify appropriate strategies to access each market.
18 identify the types of summer or part-time jobs or self-employment options that
would suit their personal interests and skills.
19 use a variety of resources appropriately to identify summer or part-time jobs in
the open market.
20 identify their own network of contacts that could help them access the hidden job
market, and explain the importance of personal networks.
21 create effective resumes, cover letters and thank-you letters for the work search
process, using work-processing software and appropriate vocabulary and
conventions.
22 complete job applications effectively and without spelling or grammatical errors.
23 demonstrate the ability to communicate their interest in a work opportunity
effectively.
24 identify common interview questions and demonstrate the ability to respond
appropriately and effectively.
25 demonstrate an understanding of how to use decision-making processes.
26 articulate personal, community, and occupational goals and explain how these
relate to their competencies, interests, and characteristics.
27 articulate their learning goals, taking into consideration what they have learned
about their learning preferences, strengths, needs, and interests, and the
competencies needed for selected fields of work.
28 identify several postsecondary education/training options that are suited to their
competencies, interests, and aspirations and explain why they are appropriate.
29 identify potential barriers that could interfere with the achievement of their goals
and use problem-solving strategies to identify appropriate actions.
30 produce a preliminary learning plan that will help them achieve their goals.
Print Resources
Chilton, David, The Wealthy Barber. Prima Lifestyles, 1997.
Littrell, J, James Lorenz, and Harry Smith, From School to Work, 2004,
Goodheart-Willcox Publishing Company, Illinois.
Websites
http://osap.gov.on.ca (Ontario Student Assistance Program)
www.jobfutures.ca/en/home.shtml (Job Futures)
www.jacan.org (Junior Achievement of Canada)
http://www23.hrdc-drhc.gc.ca/2001/e/generic/welcome.shtml
(National Occupational Classification)
http://www.seekingsuccess.com/article/art138.php3 (Seeking Success)
www.careercruising.com (Career Cruising)
http://www15.hrdc_drhc.gc.ca/english/general/ES_Profiles_e.asp
(Essential Skills Profile)
http://www.mazemaster.on.ca/ (Mazemaster)
www.nextsteps.org (Next Steps)
http://skills.edu.gov.on.ca (Ontario Skills Passport)
GLC2O
CAREER STUDIES
Lesson 6Lesson 6: Accessing and Managing Career
information
This lesson focuses on accessing and managing information related to career
exploration. Career clusters and jobs are highlighted. The lesson will also focus on
considerations that affect our choice of career, learning about careers, the career
planning process, researching careers, emerging trends in jobs, social and economic
trends affecting jobs, and occupations that are growing in number and occupations that
are declining in number.
Career Clusters and Jobs
There are thousands of jobs that exist today – most of which we have never even
considered. One way to look at these job areas is to study the career clusters in the
workplace. A career cluster is a group of jobs related to one another by common
interests. The jobs within each cluster range from entry level to professional. An
example of such a career cluster would be the health science cluster (which could
include a nurse’s aide, paramedic, and a physician). All jobs can be grouped around
16 career clusters. These 16 career clusters are:
1. agricultural and natural resources
2. architecture and construction
3. arts, audiovisual technology, and communications
4. business and administration
5. education and training
6. finance
7. government and public administration
8. health science
9. hospitality and tourism
10. human service
11. information technology
12. law and public safety
13. manufacturing
14. retail/wholesale sales and service
15. scientific research/engineering
16. transportation, distribution, and logistics.
As mentioned earlier, each career cluster has within it many associated careers ranging
from entry level to very sophisticated jobs within that grouping. Basically, the higher
paying jobs of the cluster will require more training and formal education, but all the jobs
in the same group share common traits.
Key Question #33
Select 2 of the 16 career clusters and briefly describe why both are of interest to you.
Include in your answer some associated careers that you might like to pursue. Why did
you choose these 2 clusters and the associated careers?
Traditional and Non-traditional Careers
The belief that some careers should be held by some groups and not other groups
suggests the idea of non-traditional careers. Careers that were typical for one gender
but not the other are called non-traditional. Examples of this would be a man working
as a daycare teacher or a woman working as a bricklayer. Remember, in a society that
respects the equal rights of all workers, job skills are the most important factor in
determining whether or not a career is for you.
Regardless of the way things should be, there are several myths surrounding
employment in non-traditional careers. Such myths include:
1. Women in clerical jobs dress so well that surely they make more money than
trade workers.
2. Men are not nurturing or sensitive enough to work with small children, the elderly,
or with the sick as caregivers.
3. Women are not strong enough to work as skilled labourers.
4. Men who work in non-traditional careers are not very masculine.
5. Work in the trades can be dirty and women do not like to get messy.
6. Men who choose non-traditional careers are not skilled or strong enough to be
employed in traditionally male careers.
7. Women who work in the trades are too rough and tough to be feminine.
8. Men in notational careers earn less money than men employed in traditional
careers.
9. Females do not have the mathematical abilities to work in the trades.
Remember, a myth is an unfounded belief or idea.
There are many myths regarding people employed in non-traditional careers. As you
look for a suitable job, it is important to note that these myths are not true. Pick the
career you wish, do not pick some job just because it is thought to be a woman’s job or
a man’s job. Having the correct job skills makes it your job, regardless of your gender.
Job Market Trends
Very often, people are not aware of the educational requirements necessary for certain
occupations. Having the correct education necessary to enter the profession of choice
is very important. By examining employment forecasts, you can learn to identify jobs
that offer good job prospects. Look for careers that have many job openings or are
growing. It is also important to note which occupational areas show decreases in
numbers of jobs available. If you do choose a career in such a field, realize that it will
likely take longer to find that perfect job.
No one knows the future of the job market, but researchers continue to study
occupational trends. Occupational trends are research predictions regarding the
job that will most likely be needed in the future. An example of this would be the
service-related jobs which include jobs like business services, health services, and
social services. This cluster will account for the majority of new service positions in the
future. Many things affect these occupational trends.
Such changes that are occurring in society that will affect the future of jobs include:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
advances in technology
an aging population
increased concern over health and fitness
high interest in recreation and entertainment
new ways of communication based on new technologies.
Key Question #34
Choose one example of the 5 societal changes that may affect the job market. Identify
this change and describe the positive and negative aspects of that change on career
opportunities. Your answer should be 4 paragraphs (an introduction, a paragraph on
the positive aspects of the change, a paragraph on the negative aspects of the change,
and a conclusion of your thoughts on the change for society and future jobs.)
Economic and Social Trends Affecting Jobs
Changing economic trends will often affect the decisions we make. The newspaper
and Internet contain many articles in their Business Sections that describe the economic
trends happening each day. Such trends include saving, investing, spending,
borrowing, interest rates, mortgages, rising prices of things, inflation rates, the Canadian
dollar, employment rates, etc. As employers, we will adjust our behaviours based on
these economic conditions.
For example, in the time of the Great Depression, very little spending was going on
because people did not have money to spend on goods or services. Today, things are
quite different.
Other trends that may occur will or can affect our economic outlook. Some of these we
have no control over; others we do. The following is a list of Workplace Trends that will
affect our choice of employment over time:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
lay-offs
long strikes
downsizing
plant closures
promotions
Key Question #35
Choose 2 of the economic trends listed in the lesson material (saving, buying, spending,
interest rates, inflation, employment rates, the Canadian dollar, downsizing, strikes,
layoffs, etc) and find a newspaper or Internet article about the trend. For each article,
state the message of the article and how does it affect the employee or employer.
Include the articles with your work.
Considerations That Affect Our Choice of Occupation
The factors that influence our choice of decisions are many and may include:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Values:
Peers:
Habits:
Feelings:
5. Family:
what is important to you, your family, others in your culture?
people you know, pressure for positive or negative decisions.
the way you are used to doing things.
love, anger, frustration or rejection, “don’t care attitudes”, can
influence our choices.
their preferences and also decisions other family members have
made.
6. Risks and
Consequences:
7. Age:
What or how much do you stand to win or lose by the
decision.
are you a minor or an adult?
There are likely other factors that influence your decisions, but the important point to
realize is that we do not usually make choices about our occupation in isolation of other
things. Many factors will come into play as we decide what is best for us.
Career choices have far-reaching effects, not only on individuals and families, but also
on communities and society. Your career path may take you anywhere in the world.
The choices that you make now will eventually have an impact on your role as a
community citizen. What career path will you follow? What factors influenced your
decisions?
Key Question #36
Many factors influence our career path. It is important to examine the issues and
values that may affect your future career choices. State how each of the following
would influence you?
1. Personal considerations (values, goals, self-concept, personality, interests)
2. Relationships (commitment and loyalty to others, communication skills,
problem-solving skills, getting along with others).
3. Family Considerations (balance with family commitments, benefit to my family)
4. Resource Considerations (will this highlight my career and talents, will it
provide challenge, will it provide financial benefits, will it provide a satisfactory
income?)
Thinking about Various Occupations
Perhaps before you begin your career planning process; it is important to discover what
and how you feel about certain jobs. We all bring certain ideas and thoughts to
positions now. Take a few moments to consider the various careers you might like or
careers that friends and family already hold. What is it that you like about these careers,
what do you dislike, what intrigues you, in which areas do you need more information?
Key Question #37
Our choice of job has much to do with our personal feelings about the job or the working
conditions of the job. State whether or not you would like to hold the following jobs and
give reasons for your answer.
1. nurse
2. construction worker
3. newspaper reporter
4. salesman
5. waiter/waitress
6. dental assistant
7. florist
8. plumber’s assistant
9. child care worker
10. pet groomer
The Career Planning Process
Whether you are seeking your first job, or considering changing to a different field
altogether, various actions must be taken to obtain a job. The Career Planning
Process involves the following steps:
Phase 1:
Assess your personal interests, abilities and career
Phase 2:
Evaluate the current employment market.
Phase 3:
Identify specific job opportunities.
Phase 4:
Apply for employment positions with the use of a
application letter.
Phase 5:
Interview for available positions.
Phase 6:
Obtain additional career training.
goals.
resume or
Key Question #38
Personal Situation
A.
Based on your personal situation, answer the following questions:
1. What topics of study do (or did) you enjoy most in school?
2. What skills do you do well? What do you feel would be your most
distinguishing skill or area of specialty?
3. Outside of school or work, what are your interests?
4. Describe a situation in which you helped organize the work of others.
5. Describe a situation in which you worked with a team to achieve a goal.
6. Describe the kind of job you might like.
B.
Based on your answers to 1-6, describe three jobs that meet your criteria.
C.
Select two careers that interest you. Using library information, the Internet,
and interviews with others, and research the following questions about both
careers:
a. What are the general activities and duties of the job?
b. What are the physical surroundings, work hours, and mental and
physical demands of this type of work?
c. What training and educational background is needed for this area of
employment?
d. Will these career areas be in demand in the future?
e. What are the starting and advanced salaries for this industry?
f. What makes this career attractive to you?
Career Research Sources
There are many sources available to help you in your career search. Such sources
include libraries, career information guides, the Internet, school counsellors, and your
own thoughts and observations about the job market. It is your job to take the initiative
to find out about careers and opportunities available to you. The more information you
can gather about various careers, the more likely you will be to select one that you wish
to hold on to.
Career information is available at the following spots:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Libraries
Career information booklets
The Internet
School Counsellors
Career Fairs
Your own personal ideas and observations
When you learn about a career that seems promising, become your own career
researcher. Gather all the necessary facts and information and talk to people who
currently hold that job. This will help you when you search for your own career.
Evaluating Careers
As you begin you career search, ask yourself the following questions:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
What educational requirements are needed for this position?
What are the general working hours?
Under what conditions would you be working?
How much pay could you expect to earn?
How would this career fit into your lifestyle and goals?
If you keep these questions in mind when searching for your career, you will make a
much more informed decision about the career. This will ultimately lead to a more
satisfying and rewarding occupation.
Educational Requirements
Education is often the most important and costly consideration when evaluating which
career is for you. The career you ultimately choose will be one where the education
required is conquerable for you. Your career choice will also determine the training
and education you will require to get and keep the job. If you have a part-time or
full-time job now you will be learning skills and on-the-job training and that is a very
valuable form of education. However, some jobs will require formal training. Some
questions to consider about the amount of education required are:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Do the occupations that interest you require further education?
How much time, effort, and money are you willing to spend on your education?
Can you receive the education you need through training?
Could you learn the skills you need through an apprenticeship?
Will you need a college diploma or a university degree?
Should you consider career training through the Canadian Armed Forces?
Most definitely, the amount of training and education you will need will influence your
choice of career.
Different types of training could include:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
On-the-job training.
Apprenticeships.
Colleges.
Universities.
Canadian Armed Forces.
Work Hours
Different jobs have different hours of work. Some jobs require daytime hours and
others require different shifts throughout the day and night. This is something you
should consider. Do you mind working long workday or irregular hours? Would you
prefer a seasonal occupation? Do you mind working at night while others may be
sleeping? It is important to consider working hours in your career planning. An
example of such a decision may be in the field of nursing. If you know you want to
work daytime hours during weekdays only, nursing may not be the career choice for you
since it involves shift work over the 24 hour day. As a nurse, you may also be required
to work afternoon and night shifts as well as weekends and holidays. Similarly, if you
do not care to work inside an office for your entire day, an office job may not be for you.
Most full-time employees work 40 hours per week. Some employees work 10 hour
days, 4 times a week. Other workers may be allowed to set their own work schedules
or work from home. Many occupations require workers to work irregular hours as
needed. People in real estate often fall into this category. They could be required to
work evenings, weekends, or when called. Doctors work on-call shifts as well. Other
occupations are seasonal, such as farming, golf course instructors, etc. You will need to
decide how much of a factor work hours are when you do your career search.
When researching careers you should also look at the work conditions under which you
will be working. Do you need to be working in specific environmental conditions or will
any worksite be acceptable to you? Are there certain environmental, physical, or
mental conditions that you find uncomfortable? Would it bother you to be working in
noisy, steamy, or hot/cold conditions? Would you dislike physical labour, climbing
ladders or sitting at a desk all day? Do you prefer following a set routine all the time or
do you like variety in your day-to-day tasks? Do you want to work alone or with others?
Every job has characteristics that appeal to some people and not to others. It is up to
you to decide which characteristics are important to you.
Key Question #39
What work conditions would you avoid? Describe your ideal work conditions.
Pay: Starting and Potential
Jobs should be selected on what you would like to do but pay is an important factor
when determining which job is right for you. How much money do you expect to earn
during the first year? During the next year? How does the pay scale keep up with the
job? Are there opportunities for advancing your pay?
It is important to learn what wages or salaries you can expect to earn in the occupations
that are of interest to you. Find out about the starting salaries. Can you support
yourself on this? Could you support a family on this? Will additional education be
necessary for larger pay increases over time? Is this in your future plans?
The pay cheque is only one aspect of the pay situation. Often job offers will come with
benefits as well. These could include things like health coverage, vacation pay, holiday
time, life insurance, etc. How important are these things to you? If they are important,
you will need to research the organization to see what they offer in terms of additional
benefits.
National Occupational Classification System
There are different occupational classification systems you can utilize to access career
information to help you make your decisions. One such system is the National
Occupation Classification. You can find this on the Internet. If it is useful to you, take
some time to browse through various career groupings to get some ideas. You may
discover careers you never considered for yourself.
Key Question #40
For each of the 2 chosen careers in Part C of Key Question #38, locate a successful
person in each career and interview him or her to learn the following about each job:
general job duties, working conditions and hours, necessary skills, recommended
education and training, and future career outlook. Summarize your findings in a written
report.
Growing and Declining Occupations
One of the deciding factors regarding the choice of occupation is the relative growth or
decline of that occupation in the workforce. This does not mean to suggest that you
should not consider jobs that are declining, rather, it means that if you do select such
jobs you must remember that it will be more challenging to get that job as there are
fewer of them. You will need to work especially hard when looking at where the job
market is for your chosen field and the realistic number of new hires that field attracts.
Key Question #41
Research the jobs that are in decline and the jobs that are growing. You will find this
information on the Internet as a general search. Which fields are growing? Which
fields are declining? Have you selected a growing career? A declining career? How
do you feel about your choice and your prospects? Explain.
Summary of Lesson 6
This lesson was geared toward getting you to think about the information necessary to
begin to make career choices and also ways to manage this information. Having
looked at the emerging trends and your own personal views and feelings on career
choices you are in a much more informed position to make some decisions regarding
your future with respect to your career choice.
GLC2O
CAREER STUDIES
Lesson 7Lesson 7: Identifying Opportunities
This lesson will outline the learning opportunities and the learning options you have as
you begin your search for work. Workplace safety and conduct are also stressed in
this lesson as they are vital to your success on the job. Lastly, the knowledge and
skills valued by employers and ways to succeed on the job are studied in this lesson.
The valuable skills you develop in these areas will put you in good stead when you
begin your job search.
Exploring the World of Work
Chances are that you will spend more time working than doing any other activity in your
entire lifetime; therefore, deciding what to do to earn your living is a very important
choice to make. Just like making any other important decision, having all the information
at your fingertips or easy to access, improves your chances of making an appropriate
decision and choice for you. Everyone is unique, so do not expect your choice to be
just like someone else’s. This is also why it does not make sense to have someone
else decide your career path for you. You know yourself the best, so take the time to
consider all the factors that are important to you. Making a good career decision
requires knowing yourself, your strengths, and your interests. You can start this
process by looking at what interests you in the courses you take or the extra activities
you choose to do in your spare time.
Making a good career choice requires understanding the workplace and the
requirements of jobs in which you are interested. Basic information about the world of
work can be obtained through a number of avenues, school counsellors and reference
libraries. The best idea is to confirm what your research says with someone who is
actually performing the job you like and ask that person what the job entails.
Exploring the world of work allows you to see the people at their jobs and to discover
the true nature of the job. There are a few ways you can explore work choices on the
worksite itself. Such programs include:
1. Job shadowing:
following a worker on the job and observing what that job
involves.
2. Volunteering:
3. School-to-work
programs:
Observe different types of work while contributing to
activities that benefit your community.
Provide students with job training while they
are attending school, thereby, bridging the gap between
school and work.
4. Co-operative Education
Programs:
is a school program that prepares students for an occupation
through a job experience.
5. Internship:
6. Youth
Apprenticeship:
a school program providing paid or unpaid work experience
for a specified period to learn about a job or an industry.
is a specialized program of job training to master a craft or
trade, involving on the job training with a skilled craftsperson
as well as technical classroom instruction.
Post-Secondary Options
As you look at all the learning opportunities that are available to you, keep in mind the
post secondary options that you can research for your future education. The post
secondary options that are most commonly used are:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
College
University
Apprenticeships
Private Training
Distance Education
On-the –job training.
Each one of these will provide advantages and disadvantages to the learner. Your job
is to select the post secondary option that best suits your choice of program and make it
the most enjoyable experience that you can.
Work Place Safety
Health and Safety Considerations on the Job
Accidents and injuries on the job are not pleasant but they do happen. Our task as
workers, as employees, and as students learning on the job, is to see that we are
responsible workers, we are trained workers and in case an accident occurs that we
know what to do to help someone or something. Accidents hurt people and property.
Injured workers and damaged equipment cost the employer and employee time and
money. Working safely is every worker’s responsibility. Preventing an accident is
much better than having to deal with the serious consequences of one. Most accidents
can be prevented when people are alert, careful, and aware of the potential dangers
around them.
What causes Accidents?
Accidents are most often caused by the following:
1.
2.
3.
4.
lack of knowledge or skills
environmental hazards
poor safety attitudes
unsafe behaviours
Knowledge of how to prevent accidents when considering the above four factors greatly
reduces the number of mistakes workers make and, therefore, will keep them safer.
Preventing Accidents
The following safety procedures will help prevent accidents in the workplace:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Stay healthy
Use machines and tools properly
Wear protective clothing and use protective safety equipment
Follow safety precautions
5.
5) Recognize hazards in the workplace
Hazards in the workplace are any practices, behaviours, or conditions that can cause
injury or illness in people, or damage to property. Strive to recognize and eliminate
such hazards in the workplace. Safety is everyone’s responsibility. It is a team effort to
keep everyone safe at the workplace.
No one expects to be hurt or killed on the job, nor do they expect it to happen to anyone
else. Accidents do happen to people and equipment, all of which cause a loss of some
kind to the person or to the organization. To an employee, this can mean loss of
income; to an employer it means lost time, money and productivity. Accidents can
happen anywhere, anytime – we are human. Working safely is in everyone’s best
interests.
Key Question #42
Think about your first job (paid or unpaid) and consider the following questions related
to that job:
1
2
3
4
5
What was your job?
Who hired you?
Describe the workplace.
What training did you get?
Were there any risks associated with the job?
Costs of Accidents
Accidents carry with them a tremendous cost both to the worker and to the employer.
Money is needed to cover the medical costs and wage losses of people who are hurt in
accidents. Even the person who is not directly hurt in a workplace accident will still
absorb some of the costs of accidents, through the loss of a colleague, the higher cost
of production, and the lost production time.
Key Question #43
Consider the costs of accidents. How do accidents represent a:
1. cost to you?
2. cost to the employer?
3. cost to the economy?
Give examples of each of the above.
What to do when an accident occurs?
If an accident does occur at work, you must remember these three important steps:
1. Call for help as soon as it is safe to do so
2. Provide first aid
3. Follow Universal Precautions
Universal Precautions state you should:
1. Use protective barriers such as appropriately designed masks, gowns, gloves,
and eye protection
2. Always wear latex gloves when handling blood
3. Dispose of used gloves in a plastic bag labelled contaminated
4. Wash your hands after handling blood even if you wore gloves
5. If blood has made contact with any part of your body, wash thoroughly and see a
doctor immediately
One or more persons at all worksites should be trained in Universal Precautions.
Whenever possible, rely on that person to handle accidents where a loss of blood
occurs.
Administering First Aid to People
Be certain to consider the following 8 points when administering first aid to someone
who has been hurt on the worksite:
1. Remain calm.
2. Rescue the person from the hazardous situation if it is possible to do so.
3. Don’t move the person unless there is an immediate threat of further injury.
4.
4) Check to make sure nothing is in the injured person’s mouth or throat that could
interfere with breathing.
5. Stop any bleeding by applying pressure to the wound.
6. Help to prevent shock by keeping the person warm and flat on his or her back
with the head low.
7. Call for medical help immediately.
8. Stay with the injured person until medical help arrives.
Follow these basic life-saving steps before medical help arrives and tell the medical
personnel everything you can about the nature of the injury and accident.
Key Question #44
What three steps would you take if someone happened to be involved in an accident on
the job? What Universal Precautions would you take? List points to remember when
administering first aid to someone.
Passport to Safety Program
In Ontario, there is a very important program for young people, called Passport to
Safety. This program is geared toward safety education, particularly those new to the
workforce. The program was designed by Paul Kells, a father who lost his son in a
workplace accident. Paul decided that no other young person needed to die on the
worksite. His program is renown for safety awareness.
Key Question #45
Passport to Safety
Go onto the website for Passport to Safety (www.passporttosafety.com) and read about
the program. Your task is to provide a one page summary of the information on the
website. Along with the summary, design a one page poster depicting any aspect of
workplace safety. Give consideration to your message of safety.
WHMIS and the Workers’ Safety Insurance Board Act
Both of these pieces of legislation offer information and help to workers and employers.
You are responsible for your actions at the workplace so it is also your responsibility to
make yourself aware of these pieces of information.
Key Question #46
Research both WHMIS and the Workers’ Safety Insurance Board Act on the Internet or
at your workplace. Write a one page summary for each of them outlining the key points
of each piece of legislation. Why would it be important for workers to understand or be
aware of these 2 pieces of information?
Key Question #47
Work Experience Health and Safety
Each student is to complete this assignment using a place of employment or use the
questions as a basis for interviewing a supervisor/worker in a workplace environment.
Use whichever format (your own workplace or interview a worker) is most useful to you.
Student’s Name:
Person interviewed (if necessary):
Workplace Name:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
What would I need to know to be safe during my work experience here?
What should I do if I am injured?
When will I have WHMIS training?
What personal protective equipment do I need?
When will I receive training in how to use this equipment?
Where are the following pieces of emergency equipment located? Fire
extinguishers, eye wash stations?
What is the procedure to follow if there is a fire?
Who is trained in first aid and CPR at this worksite?
How are the workers’ rights protected at this placement?
Name 2 responsibilities that workers have to ensure a healthy and safe
environment.
Work Place Injuries
Even with the best precautions, some accidents will still happen. An accident, by
definition, is something for which we do not plan. That does not mean we cannot give
thought as to how to avoid them. However, there are common workplace accidents
that do happen. Understanding such accidents and how they happen is the first step to
preventing such accidents. Examples of such a work place accident are carpal tunnel
syndrome, blindness, paralysis, etc.
Key Question #48
Select one of the more common workplace accidents (you can choose from those listed
above or select your own) and research the accident and condition. Your final product
will be a one page outline of the accident description. In this one page summary
please include:
1. What is it?
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
What causes it?
Whom does it usually inflict?
What are the most common symptoms?
What is the treatment for this condition?
How can I avoid this accident/condition?
You may include a diagram if you wish but this does not count as part of the one page
summary.
Key Question #49
Create a poster (sized 81/2” x 11”) illustrating hazards in the workplace and how they
are controlled. Use the ideas listed below to organize your information. Use pictures,
symbols, illustrations, diagrams, and words to create a visual interpretation of hazards
in the workplace.
You may use any of the ideas listed below as ideas for your poster or use your own
ideas:
1. Hazards and risks in the workplace (physical, biological, chemical, or ergonomic)
2. Health and Safety Procedures to follow (wearing protective equipment, company
rules, and job procedures, e.g., WHMIS symbols, chemical symbols, Passport to
Safety program, etc.)
3. Controlling Hazards in the Workplace (maps of fire doors, evacuation
procedures, training provided, etc.)
4. Policies and Procedures to follow should an accident occur (who should you
contact, phone numbers, services provided, fire procedures, etc).
Rights of Employees/Employers
As workers, we are also required to be personally responsible for our choices and our
actions. Personal responsibility means that you are reliable and accountable for the
decisions that you make. Unlike responsibilities, the rights we have as individuals
change very little as we age. We are all entitled to rights, no matter what our age.
Rights are usually defined by law and must be present in our lives and workplaces, for
example, the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms states that all Canadians have
the right to seek employment anywhere in Canada.
Employees have rights but so does the employer. The rights of the employee
include:
1. minimum age for employment
2. hours of work
3. minimum wages
4. overtime, holiday, and vacation pay
5. paid public holidays
6. parental leave
7. Individual and group termination of employment
8. the recovery of unpaid wages
9. safe and orderly working conditions
10. freedom from harassment and discrimination
Similarly, the employer has the following rights:
1. the ability to decide what their employment needs are
2. require that employees have job-related qualifications and / or experience
3. hire, promote, and assign the most qualified person for a position
4. establish standards for evaluating job performance
5. discipline, demote, or dismiss incompetent, negligent, or insubordinate
employees
6. set employment terms and conditions
7. establish wages and salary
8. expect a productive work ethic from employees
Key Question #50
Choose three employee rights and tell why you think they are important. What would
happen to the employer if these rights did not exist?
Succeeding On the Job
What does this mean? It means many different things to many people. To some,
being successful on the job means doing their job well and not getting fired. To others,
job success is getting a raise, adding more challenges, and responsibilities and maybe
a new title.
The key idea here is that to succeed at a job you must stick with it. It will take a while
to adjust to a new job, the new people you work with and the new responsibility you
have.
Your employer expects you to display the following traits:
1. a positive attitude
2. good attendance
3. punctual
4. perform well on tasks
5. shows initiative
6. is organized
7. co-operates well with others
8. participates as part of a team
9. accepts criticism well
10. courteous and polite
11. takes pride in personal appearance
12. maintains good health and fitness
13. displays a positive work ethic
14. understands the importance of honesty, loyalty and confidentiality
Rules of Workplace Conduct
Good workplace conduct is essential to job success. These guidelines list the
employee workplace conduct rules that are valued by employers. The rules are as
follows:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
follow directions
enjoy learning
act responsibly
be enthusiastic
deal with mistakes
handle gossip
control anger
assert yourself when necessary
take responsibility for your actions
Key Question #51
Refer to the Rules of Good Workplace Conduct. Why are these so important?
Your first day on the job
Your first day on the job can be nerve-jangling. You want to do a good job and you feel
everyone is judging you. Most people feel this way when they start a new job.
Planning ahead can help you feel more prepared for that first day and first few weeks.
You should give consideration to what you will wear. Allow yourself plenty of time to
get ready. Just like the job interview, arrive a few minutes early so you are not in a panic
upon arrival. Keep a positive attitude and your start to the job will go as well as it can.
You may be observing for a while on that first day, or your supervisor could put you right
to a task. Larger companies often have an employee orientation for new workers.
During this orientation you will likely learn about the company’s history, policies, rules,
and safety procedures. You may be asked to fill out forms for the Human Resource
Department. The supervisor is responsible for your training so pay particular attention
to that person. Show an interest in what you are learning. If you do not understand
something, ask your supervisor. Be accurate.
One of the biggest challenges with starting a new job is getting to know your
co-workers. Relating to others at work is significant. Learning your job duties is one
of the first steps; however, you need to be able to relate to people on the job as the
primary task.
Key Question #52
Write a one page response on the topic, “My First Day on the Job”. Describe how you
felt and what you did on that first day of training. Describe your emotions. How did
the situation turn out? If you have never held a job, your topic title will be, “My first day
in high school”, as that experience shares many of the similarities to the first day on the
job.
Handling Job Stress
Every employee has stress. It does not matter where you work, even if you work from
home, there are stresses. By understanding stress and what it causes, you can learn
to handle it and yourself much more effectively.
Stress is defined as a feeling of pressure, strain, or tension that results from change.
Change can create different levels of stress. Major changes in our lives will affect our
stress levels. Even positive changes can be stressful.
Stress can have positive and negative effects on people. It can motivate them to work
harder to get things done or face new challenges. It can also cause fear, frustration,
and anger, thereby lowering productivity. Stress can also cause health problems, such
as ulcers, headaches, or high blood pressure. Stress affects job performance. Those
who feel a great deal of stress on the job are likely to be less productive and have more
accidents on the job. They also tend to criticize or gossip about others and blame
others. Those who try to handle stress, stay in control of their emotions. They try to
use behaviours to break the tension, e.g. humour. We cannot avoid stress in our lives,
so we must learn to cope with it and handle it in a way that works for us and for those
around us.
Getting a job you want may give you a great feeling, but most jobs have a certain
degree of stress. Stress is the pressure people feel as a result of their ability or
inability to meet the expectations of others and themselves.
On the job you are expected to work hard, meet deadlines, and get along with
co-workers and supervisors. Everyone experiences stress. It can be good if it pushes
you to work harder. Too much stress can lead to health problems and problems at
work and home. You must learn to balance your stress.
Signs of Stress
Some signs of stress are:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
a racing heart beat
feeling frightened
sweaty palms
headaches
tightness in shoulders or neck
feeling tired
irritable
Events at work and at home have an effect on one another. People are happiest when
their families can enjoy the benefits of their work. When people are stressed, it affects
their performance at work. When workers are stressed at work, they often come home
angry or frustrated. Balance between work and home is important to overall health.
When balance occurs, workers and employers both benefit.
Key Question #53
Outline ways of handling stress. What works best for you? Explain.
Key Question #54
Create a poster (sized 8 ½ ” x 11”) focusing on the negative reactions to stress. Your
poster requires a central message about stress. It should also be attractive enough to
draw attention to the topic.
Key Question #55
This self-survey will help you examine your behaviour on the job. Behaving properly on
the job is important for job success. Respond to the following statements by writing a
comment beside each of them. If you have never held a job, interview someone who
has and write that person’s answers down.
1. I am willing to work with my co-workers as a team.
2. I get along with people at work.
3. I am friendly at work.
4. I accept criticism positively
5. I perform tasks I do not want to do as well as any others.
6. I do not act self-centred.
7. I do not act like a know-it-all.
8. I look for something else to do when I have completed my assignments.
9. I avoid arguments with co-workers.
10. I have a positive attitude towards work.
11. I practice ways of handling stress on the job.
When you are finished responding to the above 11 statements, summarize a person
you admire on the job. Why do you admire that person? Be specific.
Summary of Lesson 7
Identifying your opportunities is vital to your career exploration and success. By
looking at the options available to you when you choose how to learn about your career,
you can make informed decisions about such choices. Understanding the rights and
responsibilities of employees and employers and workplace safety is key to our success
on the job. Finally, having knowledge of the skills and behaviours valued by employers
will help us understand the workplace and how to best function within it.
GLC2O
CAREER STUDIES
Lesson 8
Lesson 8: Managing Change and Entrepreneurship
This lesson focuses on change – good and bad and suggests ways to positively deal
with change. The lesson also covers making a job change. The lesson also looks at
the growth of jobs, and in particular the area of the job market that is growing the most –
entrepreneurships (working for one-self).
Change
Change is a constant in the world of work and life. We need to be able to adapt to
change in order to keep up with the demands of working and the new skills and
challenges that are presented to us. Many people do not like change or do not adapt
well to change for several reasons,
1.
2.
3.
4.
it suggests we may be doing an inferior job
it is threatening to how we work
we may not have the new skills needed for the change
it is uncomfortable
5.
6.
7.
8.
change takes time
we may not have the resources for change
others may not support our efforts at changes
it is frightening to our routine
Change in the workplace is inevitable. There are ways to deal with change and each
one of us needs to find ways to deal effectively, rather than ineffectively with changes
that happen in the workplace. One only needs to speak to someone who has been in
the workplace for a long time to realize the magnitude of changes that have happened
over time.
Key Question #56
Talk to someone who has been in the workplace for at least 30 years. Ask that person
how the workplace has changed over time. Does that person have any advice for
adapting to change in the workplace? Write a paragraph summarizing the comments
of that person.
Making a Job Change
We will not likely stay with the first job we receive, for many reasons. Sometimes the
job is a temporary one, we may not like the job as much as we thought we would, we
need more training, our life changes and the job no longer suits our life (e.g., shift work),
or we simply want a change. People do tend to change jobs many times in their
lifetime. If boredom is the reason, it may be time to think about a new job. Signs that
you might think about a job change are:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
your job responsibilities have not changed in three or four years
your responsibilities are reduced
you are not chosen for important projects or committees
your are passed over for promotions or you have been demoted
you are bored, find it hard to focus, and get little enjoyment from those things that
once excited you
6. your relationships with your superiors or co-workers are strained or have
deteriorated
If you are deciding to make a career change, do so carefully. Do not make hasty
decisions, but rather give a great deal of thought to your career and future plans. Why
do you wish to leave? What type of job are you looking for? What do you plan to
accomplish by making this change? These questions are ones to ask yourself before
quitting. If you do decide to leave, make sure you do so on good terms. Do not quit
suddenly – it is not fair to an employer and leaves the employer is a difficult spot trying
to replace you with little warning. You need to give your employer two weeks notice
that you are leaving. Offer to train the new person if possible. If asked to give an “exit
interview”, comply with them, talking always in positive terms.
Although jumping from job to job is not necessarily the wisest move, a change for good
reason can be a very positive one. Many times people stay in jobs they do not like
because they feel it is much easier to stay than to look for a new challenge. It takes a
great deal of courage and initiative to look for a new job. Finding the correct job for you
is very important not only for your morale but also for your work productivity.
Key Question #57
Why do you think most people change jobs? Suggest 4 reasons. Have you ever
changed jobs and why did you? Was it the correct decision? Explain.
Entrepreneurship
You can probably name some people in your community who own their own
businesses. These people are called entrepreneurs. An entrepreneur is a person
who organizes and manages a business. Starting a business by yourself is a
challenging but rewarding job. Entrepreneurs play a very significant role in the
economy of Canada. Businesses owned by entrepreneurs help keep the economy
strong by creating jobs. They have been able to watch their ideas become realities
without the stress of working for someone else. Do not think though, that working for
yourself is without stress – it is hard work and some businesses will not survive. It is
vital to look at this option as a possible option for your future.
Entrepreneurs identify and meet consumer needs. They can provide specialized
products and services that large corporations do not. They create competition for each
other and for large corporations. This serves to keep prices in line for the consumer.
It also allows a healthy choice for the consumer if prices and products are competitive.
Being an entrepreneur involves organizing a business, planning its direction, and taking
the risks. Staring a new business, attempting to make it bigger and bigger, or
reorganizing one that is not working well are challenges for the entrepreneur. To be a
successful entrepreneur you must be able to spend the time and energy to continually
work at a business.
Facts about Small Businesses (Entrepreneurships)
The figures about entrepreneurships are impressive. Consider the following statistics:
1. Entrepreneurships account for 53% of the private work force.
2. Entrepreneurships employ a larger proportion of workers who are younger, older,
female and part-time.
3. Entrepreneurships provide 47% of all sales in the economy.
4. Entrepreneurships account for 28% of jobs in high technology, 51% of private
sector jobs, and 55% of innovative products and services.
Key Question #58
Why do you think entrepreneurs are important for our economy? Explain your answer
in a paragraph.
Key Question #59
Some people seem to be naturals at starting businesses, projects and organizations.
Before we begin to look at these types of people, create a list of characteristics you
think these people possess, and list some of the skills you think they need to succeed.
What is an Enterprising Person?
Enterprising people bring certain characteristics to the workplace or to other
organizations. Not everyone is entrepreneurial. Many people are comfortable working
for others, and they look for stability and security. Other people are driven to make
changes. It is these people who become entrepreneurs. All entrepreneurs possess
similar characteristics.
The characteristics of entrepreneurs are that they are:
1. risk takers
2. perceptive
3. curious
4. imaginative
5. persistent
6. set goals well
7. hard-working
8. self-confident
9. flexible
10. independent
Key Question #60
Find a magazine or newspaper article, website, or television program that profiles an
entrepreneur. Find as many entrepreneurial characteristics in the profile as you can.
Explain how the person being profiled illustrates each characteristic.
Key Question #61
Refer to the 10 characteristics of entrepreneurs listed above. Select the 2
characteristics you feel are the most important. Why did you choose these two?
How might these 2 characteristics lead to success in a business or organization?
Entrepreneurial Skills
The skills needed by entrepreneurs are quite specific. Such skills enable the
entrepreneur to translate knowledge into action. To be successful, entrepreneurs need
a variety of skills, including the 4 main categories listed below:
1. Research Skills – accessing information, the ability to learn and acquire new
knowledge, knowing where to look for potential answers,
2. Management Skills – planning, organizing, directing, controlling, and staffing.
3. Relationship Skills – staff relationships, supplier relationships, and customer
relationships.
4. Marketing and Accounting Skills – keeping accurate records and promoting
products or services.
Advantages of Entrepreneurship
People go into business for themselves for many reasons, including the following:
1. it can be very exciting and rewarding
2. gives people the sense of accomplishment that comes from doing something on
their own
3. they are their own bosses
4. they have the freedom to make their own decisions
5. they are in charge of setting their own schedules
6. they have the opportunity to try out new ideas that might get overlooked in a big
company
7. if ideas work out they get credit in terms of profit, etc
8. have the potential to earn more money working for themselves than working for
someone else
Disadvantages of Entrepreneurship
It is not simple to be an entrepreneur and the disadvantages of this type of employment
include:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
they must be willing to do everything connected with the business
they must be good at several tasks (e.g., book-keeping, managing, sales, etc.)
requires extra hours of work
involves emotional stress and worry about making the business successful
they bear the burden of making decisions that can affect the success of the
business
6. have the pressure of knowing that if they make too many mistakes, their
business may fail
Key Question #62
Do you think you could be an entrepreneur? Ask yourself, how many of the
entrepreneurial characteristics and skills you possess. Then, provide an example of
when, where and how you demonstrated each characteristic or skill. Prove to yourself
whether or not you have the skills and characteristics to be an entrepreneur.
(Remember, being an entrepreneur is not for everyone) Could you be an entrepreneur
or not? Explain your answer.
Key Question #63
Go back to the list you made in Key Question #61. Add any entrepreneurial
characteristics and skills you now feel are important to be an entrepreneur. Which
characteristics and skills would you add?
Key Question #64
Research the biographies of famous entrepreneurs, such as, Ray Kroc (McDonald’s),
Debbie Fields (Mrs. Field’s Cookies), Sam Walton (WalMart), Frank O’Dea (Second
Cup Coffee), Michael Budman and Don Green (Roots). Write a 2 page biography on
this person/s, including how he/she/they got started and what is their success today.
Entrepreneurial Activities
It is the entrepreneurial spirit that gets things done. Entrepreneurs who take risks and
work hard to start businesses and make a profit are directly responsibility for Canada’s
economic prosperity. Entrepreneurs, however, are not always driven only by profit for
themselves. Many use their skills and characteristics to fundraise, contribute to their
local, provincial, national, or global communities through not-for-profit ventures, and
organize school events where any gain realized goes to the charity, community group,
or school. You will be involved in a larger key question that will address the idea of an
entrepreneurial spirit.
Key Question #65
Community Based Project (Large Assignment)
You will be working independently on this assignment, however, you may find that your
project allows you to work with others while completing the project. This is a larger
project and will involve considerable time and thought.
The Task: You are to select a community-based project that will benefit someone
else or many others. Examples of such a project may include:
1. organizing a food drive
2. landscaping around a school
3. helping out at a nursing home
4. helping a shut-in person
5. helping out at a daycare or library
6. helping out at a local church
7. local community parade preparation
8. magazine/book drive for local hospital or school
9. charity golf tournament
10. fundraisers
The choice is yours but keep in mind that it should not be so large that you find it
overwhelming. You may select one from the list or your own – just be certain that your
project benefits others and you can complete it in less than one week. A good time
length for the project is 2 days. The key criteria are that your project must help
other people.
You will write a report that will contain the following parts:
1. Part A. – Description of your project. Be specific about what you plan to do.
Who is your target group? Why did you choose this particular project?
2. Part B - Who is involved? List all the people you plan to involve in your
project and how are they related to each other (by task)?
3. Part C – What are the goals of your project? Be specific. How will you know
if you reach your goals?
4. Part D – Create a timeline for your project from start to finish. Your project
may take a couple of days but do not go over one week long.
5. Part E – Outline your plan of action. What do you intend to do? How? What
resources will you need? Any challenges you foresee?
6. Part F – Analysis of Project – How did it go? Was it successful? Why or why
not? What could you have changed?
7. Part G – Response of the Target Group. What did those who were supposed
to benefit have to say about your project and its successes and challenges? Be
specific.
8. Part H – Prepare a visual representation of your project. This could be a
flyer or a one page poster on your project and its benefits to the target group.
9. Part I – Reflection on the Project. – Identify the skills that you used to
complete this project. Identify the skills that you need to improve. How will you
seek improvement in that area?
10. Part J –Link to Job Skills -How might this experience help you with your task of
getting a job in the future? Explain.
Your report should be put in a folder with a cover sheet identifying the particular project.
You should have a Table of Contents with all ten parts listed (parts a-j) and the project
should be written in proper sentence form.
Summary of Lesson 8
This lesson stressed the challenge of change in our workplace and lives. Many factors
will affect how we react to change and this will influence the outcome of many of our
activities. Change happens throughout life and learning needs to be lifelong to sustain
us through our choices and careers. A major change in the workforce is
entrepreneurship, or working for ourselves. Many new jobs will be in this fashion.
Whether we choose entrepreneurial activities, our decision will be based upon the
characteristics we have developed as workers and whether we adapt to this change, or
not.
The choice is yours!!
GLC2O
CAREER STUDIES
Lesson 9
Lesson 9: Searching For Work
This lesson focuses on the tools and techniques one would use to search for work.
Basically, the tools include your resume, cover letter, thank you letters, job application
forms, the interview, how to read advertisements, and networking. Finally, the lesson
will address summer and part-time jobs you may decide to pursue.
Resume Preparation
The purpose of a resume is to summarize a person’s work experience, educational
background, and any other qualifications that make that person a suitable candidate for
the job. Usually a resume is sent to a potential employer with a cover letter or a letter
of application. Reference letters supporting the applicant’s character, honour, job
experience, and educational experience may also be included in the package. The
resume allows the employer to get a quick and easy snapshot of the applicant. A
resume that is well prepared and neat and tidy can attract an employer’s attention and
allow you to be granted an interview. It can also give the employer some idea of what
to ask you so as to allow you to expand upon the contents of your resume in the
interview. Sadly, a poorly written resume can also disqualify an applicant very quickly.
It is very important to pay close attention to detail in your resume. Make sure it is
PERFECT!!!! Remember a resume is often your first opportunity to make a lasting
impression.
There are many different examples of resumes to use, but remember, the most
important point about a resume is that a well-written resume impresses potential
employers and encourages them to learn more about you, the candidate.
Key Question #66
Cut out three advertisements from the newspaper or the Internet. For each
advertisement, write a paragraph outlining the skills, education, and experience you
currently hold for each job. Make sure you hand in the advertisement with your
paragraphs.
Skills Based Resume
The skills based resume is different from the chronological type of resume in that the
skills based resume actually highlights the skills necessary for the job. Usually these
jobs are more skills based and the presentation of such skills is more important than the
resume that goes over time.
The following template should be used to complete a skills based resume.
Name
Address (include city and postal code)
Telephone Number (include the area code)
Email address
Skills
1 List your best skills at the beginning of the resume
2 Know the exact skills needed for the position – if you have these skills, list them
first
3 Use the workplace essential skills, Ontario Skills Passport, if possible.
4 Most employers will review your resume and decide in eight seconds whether
they will continue to read the resume. Make these eight seconds count – your
best skills should be first on the resume
5 The rest of the resume will prove your skills.
Work History/Work Experience/Related Learning:
5 include the name of businesses and the addresses
6 using action verbs, list the tasks you completed
7 offer as much information, using point form
8 avoid the work “I” in a resume
9 the length of employment is relevant only if you feel it is necessary
10 if your last employment has been more than five years ago, avoid dates
11 work history should list employment that reflects the skills listed at the top
12 a contact person is valuable only if the person is still at the company and will
reflect your skills in a positive manner.
Education:
13 list the current school you are attending and your expected date of graduation (if
within 6 months)
14 include classes you have completed that will enhance the skills needed for the
position.
Related Experience
15 this section offers you the chance to list accomplishments, certifications,
community work, volunteer work, and personal interests that reflect your ability to
do the work for which you are applying
16 this section should be brief and in point form
Hobbies and Interests
17 this section is optional
References available upon request
________________________________________________________________
Key Question #67
Using the above template of a skills based resume, write your resume focusing on a
skills based job advertisement. As in Key Question #66, attach the copy of the job
advertisement to the back of your completed skills based resume.
Job Application Forms
Several job sites will ask you to fill out a job application when you are applying for a job
with them. These application forms are used to screen unsuitable applicants, and
thereby, save time for the employer. Having said that, the information you put on the
job application is very significant. If there is anything to disqualify the application (e.g.,
errors, incomplete, difficult to read, or smudged with dirt, coffee, or food), it will be
discarded. .
When filling out a job application form, remember the following:
1. Read the entire form before filling it out and make sure you understand what is
being asked of you.
2. Follow the instructions carefully when filling out the form, e.g., if you are asked to
print, please do so.
3. Complete all of the information sections (with the exception of the section
entitled, for employer use only). If the section does not apply to you, write “does
not apply” in the space (this lets the employer know you have read and
considered the question and not just overlooked it. Remember, the employer
feels the form is perfect and by overlooking a section, you are judging their form
to be lacking).
4. If asked on the form about wages or salary, use the word “negotiable”. A salary
that is too high may disqualify you and a salary that is too low may put into
question your confidence.
5. In the section marked “Employment History”, record all part-time and full-time
positions. When asked why you left these positions, write in summer
employment, etc. Do not write any negative comments about a past employer.
6. Be as neat and tidy as possible. Do not allow the form to get dirty or stained. If
you must change any information, get a new form and start over, if possible. If
this is not possible, draw a line through the incorrect words.
Once you have finished the form, give it to the person who should receive it. You may
also wish to give him/her a copy of your resume for his/her files so have a copy with
you. The completed application form is sometimes all that an organization will require.
Fill it in with care!!!
Cover Letter
The resume will need a letter preceding it to identify your interest in the position. This
letter is called a cover letter as it acts as a cover for your resume. Some
organizations call this a letter of application. The purpose of such a letter is to get an
employer interested in your qualifications so s/he will invite you to an interview.
Use the following list as a checklist when constructing your cover letter:
1. conventions are correct (e.g., format, greeting, closing)
2. sentences flow logically
3. ideas are clearly stated
4. words are appropriate and clear
5. sentences vary in length and structure
6. verb tense is correct and consistent
7. grammar is correct
8. punctuation is correct and effective
9. spelling is correct
10. appearance of the letter is neat and tidy, not creased or wrinkled
Key Question #68
Using the same job advertisement you used in Key Question #67, compose a sample
cover letter (letter of application) for this job.
Preparing for an Interview
The interview is usually the most significant step in getting a position. You have caught
the attention of the employer through your cover letter, your resume, your application
form (if necessary), or phone call, however, it is the personal interview that will
determine whether or not you will be offered the job.
The purpose of the job interview for the employer is to assess the candidate. The
employer wants to find out if you have the necessary skills and talents to work well
within the organization and with the other employees. The purpose of the interview for
you, the candidate, is to convince the employer that you are indeed the correct
candidate for the position and that you should be hired for the job. The interview also
gives you a chance to learn more about the company and its practices.
When preparing for an interview, it is important to consider many things. The interview
is usually a talk between the candidate and the employer. This could involve a few
interviewers. It usually lasts from 20-30 minutes long. You should always prepare for
an interview because the better prepared you are, the better you will do in the interview.
Also, the employer has given up time to meet with you so this time must be respected.
To better prepare for the interview, keep these points in mind:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Learn about the employer and the job.
Make a list of questions to ask.
List the materials to take with you.
Decide what to wear.
Be prepared for questions.
Practice for the interview.
Know where to go for the interview.
Keeping the above 7 points in mind will help you when preparing for your interview.
What Employers Are Looking For During The Interview?
Interviewers will use the following to assess your skills in an interview. Read this
section carefully as you prepare for the interview. Pay particular attention to these
points:
1. First Impression: arrived on time or was early, was dressed appropriately and
neatly groomed, extended a friendly, firm handshake.
2. Oral Communication (including non-verbal): articulated clearly and
completely, communicated the same message non-verbally as orally, used
gestures, expressions, and posture that conveyed the intended message, used
inclusive language, used appropriate tone and language, used necessary
movements only, avoided shuffling, toe tapping and shaking, spoke fluently
without “ays”, “ums” and “likes”, responded politely, used appropriate tone and
language.
3. Listening: used encouraging facial expressions, maintained eye contact with the
speaker.
4. Thinking: provided evidence of problem-solving, decision-making, task-planning
skills, asked questions, asked for clarification, paused and collected thoughts
before responding.
5. Working with others: provided examples of interactions with others, used
encouraging facial expressions and verbal affirmations, provided examples of goal
setting, time management, task completion, applied the problem-solving process
to resolve conflict.
6. Job-Specific Skills:
equipment)
provided evidence of job-specific skills (technical, computer,
7. Knowledge / Interest: asked relevant questions about the job, asked appropriate
questions regarding the organization, and the learning that takes place there, was
prepared with additional copies of the resume.
8. Closing – thanked the interviewer, ended with a handshake, asked when the
result of the interview would be known.
Star Strategy Interview Response Technique
Often the candidate will be asked the question of “telling your story” or “give an example
where…” question. Some people find these hard to answer because they feel they end
up bragging about themselves and not telling enough about the event. Use the STAR
strategy to answer such questions.
STAR stands for Situation or Task, Action and Results.
In expanded terms,
1. S = Situation or Task – Describe the situation that you were in or the task that
you needed to accomplish. Don’t give a generalized description; instead
describe a specific event or situation that has occurred in the past. Be sure to
give enough detail for the interviewer to understand. The situation or task can
be from a previous job, a volunteer experience, or any relevant event.
2. A = Action – Describe the action you took, be sure to keep the focus on you.
Even when describing a group project or effort, describe what YOU did – not the
efforts of the team. Don’t tell what you might do; tell the interviewer what you
did.
3. R = Results you achieved – What happened? How did the event end? What
did you accomplish? What did you learn?
Key Question #69
Using the STAR strategy above, describe an event you are most proud of. Apply the
STAR strategy as you describe your event. Imagine you are talking to an interviewer.
Write down your STAR answer.
Key Question #70
Using the advertisement you chose for Key Question #68, imagine you are being asked
the following questions in an interview. Provide a written answer to each of the
following interview questions. Consider your answers carefully before you record your
responses. The interview questions are:
1. Tell me about yourself.
2. What do you know about our company?
3. Why do you want to work for this company?
4. Why do you think you will like this type of work?
5. What were your best subjects in school?
6. What other jobs have you held?
7. What are your areas of growth?
8. Are you willing to work evenings and weekends?
9. What are your future plans?
10. Why should I hire you?
11. Describe a time at work (or school) when you were faced with a stressful
situation that demonstrated your ability to successfully work with others.
12. Please provide an example of a time when you had to set a goal. How did
you achieve it?
13. What is your typical way of dealing with conflict at work? Give an example.
14. Give an example of a time when you tried to accomplish something and it did
not work out as planned. What did you learn from this experience?
15. Tell about a time when you had to go above and beyond what was expected
of you to get the job done.
Note: you should be prepared to answer these questions completely before you go on
your first interview.
The Interview
The interview appointment is finally here. Consider the following points when at the
interview stage:
1. Arrive 5-10 minutes early for the interview.
2. Tell the receptionist who you are, whom you plan to see, and why you are here.
(go alone to the interview)
3. Greet the interviewer with a smile and a firm handshake.
4. When offered a seat, sit in an upright comfortable position, but do not slouch.
Sit up straight and look alert.
5. Do not chew gum, smoke, or crack your knuckles.
6. It is natural to be nervous, but try to be as relaxed as possible.
7. Listen to the interviewer’s questions very carefully, think briefly about your
answers, and then respond positively and honestly about yourself and your
experiences.
8. Look pleasantly at the interviewer during the interview and maintain eye contact.
9. When the interviewer asks you if you have any questions, keep them to a
minimum, but you should have at least one relevant question.
10. Thank the interviewer, shake his/her hand and again, express interest in the
position.
After The Interview
If the interviewer promised to call you by a certain date and has not, follow up with a
telephone call. Remain pleasant and positive. Whatever the response is you will at
least know where you stand with that job. Do not be discouraged if you do not get a
job offer right away. Sometimes it takes many attempts to get a job. If your quest for
this particular job was not successful, ask yourself the following questions:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Are you qualified for the job to which you are applying?
Are you applying to the wrong places?
Are you filling out the job application forms properly?
Do you lack interest and energy?
Do you lack confidence?
Are you being discourteous or disrespectful of the interviewer by arriving late or
not thanking them for their time?
7. Maybe there is something you can change to increase your chances next time.
Key Question #71
Assume you are going for an interview for the job of your dreams. Prepare for the
interview by doing the following:
1. Record the important information about the interview (e.g., what job are you
applying for, the particulars of the job, etc) Note: you may create this part.
2. List 2 questions to ask the interviewer.
3. List 7 questions the interviewer is likely to ask you.
4. Decide what is appropriate to wear.
5. Describe when and how you will get to the interview site.
Finding Job Openings
Once you have an idea of the kind of job you want, you are ready for the job hunt. The
greatest part of the challenge in job hunting is finding the job openings. The second
part of the challenge is getting to the interview step (noted above). To be successful in
the job hunt, you will require a plan. Lesson 6 took us through the 6 phases of
searching for a career, but the job search is more specific. Basically, the steps to
finding job openings are as follows:
1. List all the companies where you would like to work.
2. Prepare a resume summarizing your education, work experience, and other
qualifications for the job you want.
3. Contact the person in each company who has the responsibility to hire you.
Job hunting takes effort. The job openings will not wait for anyone and will not
necessarily be available when we wish them to be. To find the available job openings,
locate employers who are looking for an employee with your qualifications. This is not
an easy challenge. Finding such employers will involve looking at the following
sources and processes:
1. Networking – talking with people and establishing relationships that can lead to
more information
2. Friends and Relatives
3. School Placement Services (Guidance Departments)
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Direct Employer Contact
Want Ads in newspapers
Internet
Trade and Professional Journals
Government Employment Services
Private Employment Agencies
These 9 areas are listed as suggestions for you when you begin to look for a job. You
may prefer some over others and some you may never choose to use. Everyone is
different in how they go about the task of looking for work. You will need to look at
each of them and decide what route is best for you. Regardless of your choice, your
end result is the same as everyone else’s. You want to locate a job that is suitable for
you and one you will enjoy. Your pathway to it is your own.
Key Question #72
Not everyone is comfortable using all the sources listed above. Which ones would you
feel comfortable using? Which ones would you not likely use? Explain your reasons.
Job Advertising
When looking for a job, keep the advertisement of jobs in mind. Essentially there are
two ways a job is advertised and both ways require attention when looking for work.
The two types of advertising are:
Open Advertising – These jobs are publicly advertised in the newspaper, on the
Internet, or Trade and Professional Journals. Basically, they are available for all to
see, read, access and apply to.
Hidden Advertising – These jobs are unadvertised and the person who relies on
advertisements in print form will miss these. These jobs are harder to get as they are
often achieved through networking or “who you know”. People are selected because
they know someone about whom they can speak highly and recommend them to the
job. This is why networking is so important. You never know what connection can
bring a job opportunity your way.
Key Question #73
1. How might you increase your level of networking? Who would you let know that
you are looking for work? Why did you choose these people?
2. What part-time or summer jobs have you held that could lead to a full-time job?
How would you go about exploring these possibilities? Explain.
In order to help you think about your future career, conduct the following final
assignment for lesson 9, entitled, the Job Futures Assignment.
Key Question #74
Job Futures Assignment
Follow the steps below to complete the job futures assignment.
Step 1:
a. Go to: Job Futures website – http://jobfutures.ca/en/home.shtml
b. Click: I want to know more about the world of work
c. Click: Browse occupation by interest
d. Decide whether you are interested in “things, people, or information” or would like
to take the Job Futures Take Our Quiz – Interest Quiz. This is a short quiz (5
minutes) that will help you focus on some occupations of interest
e. Browse the list of occupations
f. Select 2 occupations that interest you.
Click on: At Work
g. For your 2 selected occupations, summarize the information in point form related
to the four topic areas for the At Work section. Use these 4 headings to
summarize each job: what workers do, where workers find work, related
occupations, and points of interest for you about this occupation.
h. Look through local newspapers or on youth employment websites to find local job
advertisements,
e.g., http://www.jobbank.gc.ca/Search_en.asp?ProvId=06&Student=false
List 2 employment opportunities in your local area that are of interest to you.
Describe these jobs.
Note: You will hand in the work from steps 7 and 8 only.
Summary of Lesson 9
Before applying to a job – do your homework. Prepare a resume that includes your
education, work experience, and qualifications for employment. A well-written resume
provides the employer with information to base whether or not you deserve an interview.
Most employers will ask you to fill out a job application form on the spot. They use
these forms to screen job applicants so the forms should be complete, accurate, and
neat. Take the time to do a good job as you could be rewarded with the job of your
dreams!!!
A personal interview with an employer is a very important step to getting that job of your
dreams. Prepare for it carefully by learning all you can about the job, about what you
can bring to the job, and about the employer. Prepare your answers to the questions,
make a good impression, listen and respond thoughtfully and carefully, and thank the
interviewer for his/her time. If you get the job – good for you, but if you do not, take the
time to evaluate the process and see if there is anything you can change for next time.
Practice makes perfect!!!
GLC2O
CAREER STUDIES
Lesson 10
Lesson 10: Setting Goals and Planning Action
This lesson focuses on the Decision-Making Process, as well as problem-solving, goal
setting (short and long term), barriers to reaching these goals, identifying options for
students, and setting up a learning plan as well as an exit plan for the course.
The Decision-Making Process
Even though we do not think about it we make decisions all the time. Some decisions
are big and have far-reaching implications – others are so minor we do not even
consider them decisions at all. But they are decisions and we basically go through the
same process whether it is a large decision or a smaller one. The difference will be the
amount of time and consideration one gives to the decision, particularly if it affects our
life. Decisions that we do not think about are called routine decisions. Examples of
such decisions are what to wear, what to eat, what pen to use, etc. Other decisions
take a little more thought. Such decisions would include what cereal to buy, what
movie to watch, when should I make that phone call? Larger decisions, or major ones,
are the toughest because they guide our career and personal life. Such decisions are
what career do I follow? What car do I buy? Whom will I marry? etc.
Managers or supervisors on jobs often have big decisions to make. If the wrong
decision is made, it may greatly influence your life. For example, Erica decided to
become a doctor just because her father was one. She went through all the schooling
and then realized she had made a big mistake. Being a doctor for the rest of her life
was not what she wanted to do. In fact, she only chose medicine because she did not
take the time to research other careers. This type of mistake can cause a great deal of
lost time, effort, money, and a great deal of heartache and anguish.
What is Decision-Making?
Decision-making is essentially problem solving, as a question to be answered
represents a problem to solve. These problems could be minor or major and problems
come in many varieties. It could be deciding upon a career or a post-secondary
education or it could be what should I order at a restaurant for dinner. Reduced to its
simplest terms, decision-making is answering all the questions you have about
something and solving problems.
Decision-Making Styles
Most of the research on decision-making styles tells us that there are 6 types of
decision-making styles. The 6 styles are as follows:
1. The organizer – worries over every detail and may lose the problem in the detail.
2. The plunger – jumps right in before looking or weighing all the facts and options.
3. The decidophobe – looks for someone else to decide as they fear making a
decision.
4. The rationalist – weighs all the facts, uses logic, makes lists.
5. The evader – procrastinates, postpones, makes excuses, and takes no action on
the problem or decision.
6. The fatalist – flips a coin, consults the horoscopes, and lets fate decide the
action to be taken.
Key Question #75
Describe your decision-making style using the descriptions above. Which style do you
use? Does your style change with respect to the type of decision you need to make?
Do you feel you must change your style? Explain.
What Influences Your Decisions?
Many factors will influence what and how you decide upon things. The most common
influences on our decision-making are:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
family
friends
values
resources
needs
wants
Good decisions will often take many or all of these factors into account.
Decision-Making Process
Earlier you studied the decision-making process, so this shall be a quick review for you.
The 7 steps to the decision-making process are as follows:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Define the problem
Establish goals
Identify resources
Consider the possible outcomes and alternatives
Make a decision
Implement the decision
Evaluate the results
When you have important decisions to make, you need to give careful consideration to
the steps and approach the decision with a plan. The decision-making process allows
you to do this.
Key Question #76
Use the decision-making process to help narrow your career choices or choose a
specific career. Describe each step considered in the decision-making process,
including your goals, resources, and alternatives to consider. Prepare a written plan.
Common Decision-Making Strategies
Decision-making strategies will differ from the decision-making styles studied earlier in
this lesson. The differences between the two are subtle, but never-the-less important.
The following is a list of the most common decision-making strategies used by
people:
1. Agonizing – collecting so much information that analyzing the options becomes
overwhelming.
2. Avoidance – choosing the option that is most likely to avoid the worst possible
result.
3. Compliance – going along with family and friends, school or work expectations.
4. Desire – choosing the option that might achieve the best result, regardless of the
risk involved.
5. Destiny – letting outside forces decide, leaving the decision up to fate.
6. Inspiration – doing something because “It feels right or it just seems like the
right thing to do”.
7. Intention – choosing an option that will be both intellectually and emotionally
satisfying.
8. Procrastination – postponing thought and action until options are limited.
9. Security – choosing the option that will bring some success, offend the fewest
people, and pose the least risk.
10. Spontaneity – choosing the first option that comes to mind; giving little or no
thought to the consequences of the choice.
11. Synthesis – choosing the option that has a good chance of succeeding and
which you like the best.
Key Question #77
Look at the list of 11 decision-making strategies listed above and answer the following
questions:
1. What strategies have you used?
2. Have the strategies you have used worked for you? Explain.
3. What situations, people or factors do you think might have influenced your choice
of decision-making strategies?
Career Decisions
One of the hardest decisions you will likely make will deal with your career decisions.
Many young people (and older ones too!) have no idea what they would like to do for a
living. Oftentimes, people will go from job to job hoping they find something they like
along the way. Very little thought is given to their futures. Since working takes up so
much time of our day, it is a significant decision. Also, career decisions will influence
your entire life. They need to be made with careful thought and planning. The job you
do will greatly determine the way you live, people you meet, money you earn, and the
satisfaction you get from the job. By using the decision-making process, choosing a
career can be easier and a great deal of fun.
Making a Career Plan
Once you know how to use the decision-making process, it is time to apply that skill to
choosing a career. How do you know what career will be best for you? Before you
can answer that question, you need to consider the following:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
your interests, aptitudes, and abilities
your strengths and weaknesses
your significant personality traits
your personal priorities
your short-term and long-term goals
your resources
Probably the most important areas to look at are your interests and skills. This will
allow you to be successful in your career rather than struggling with a job that you have
very little interest or skill in doing. This is not to say you cannot develop these skills
later on, but you need to be interested in the area in order to develop the skills.
Similarly, you may have wonderful skills but you do not wish to build your career around
these skills. For example, you may be a wonderful cook but have no intentions of
being a chef.
Also, it is important to examine if the career you are considering is really what you are
expecting. Does it provide the challenges, satisfaction, salary and benefits you think it
does? As you plan your career, keep in mind what will be most satisfying and
rewarding to you.
Once you identify what your interests are, it is also important to identify what it will take
to realize that goal. This type of action is called a career plan. A career plan is a list
of steps to take to reach a career goal. Setting a career plan does not necessarily
ensure success in all instances; but it certainly improves your chances of choosing
wisely. Interestingly, a career plan distinguishes between a job and a career. A job is
a task performed by a worker, usually to earn money. A career is a progression of
related jobs that results in employment and personal growth. People do not often stay
at the same job for their entire working lifetime but they could stay within the same
career area.
Using the decision-making process is a skill you can use throughout your lifetime for
major decisions, including career decisions. Developing skill in this area is vital to your
career success.
Key Question #78
Write an opinion response to “The Choice I Make Can Affect My Life”. Your response
should be at least 3 paragraphs long.
Goal Setting – Short and Long Term Goals
Goals are closely related to values. A goal is something that you work to achieve.
Goals can be short term (achieved in the very near future) or long term (achieved over
time, could be years). Saving money to purchase a new DVD is a short-term goal.
Saving money to pay for an education, car, or house is an example of a long term goal.
It is wise to have both types of goals. Focusing on a few important goals and
celebrating the achievement of these goals can be very rewarding. It is important to
note that one person’s goals may be quite different from another person’s goals.
Key Question #79
Looking at our goals helps us make better decisions regarding life in general.
1. List four goals for each of the following categories: educational, social,
financial, family, health/physical and recreational goals. Note you will have
listed 24 goals (4 from each of the 6 categories).
2. Choose the two goals from each of the categories above that are most
important to you. Identify each goal as either short term or long term.
3. List and prioritize (put in order of importance) four of your most important
goals from the shortlist in #2 above. After each goal, identify what you could be
doing now to work toward the goal, and what resources (time, money, particular
people or situations, etc) you need to achieve each goal.
4. Which goal of the above 4 listed is your most important goal? Why?
Smart Goals
“Smart goals” is a strategy used to illustrate whether or not our goals are well-thought
out. By following the acronym, SMART, one can quickly get a snapshot of the viability
and realistic nature of our goals. Using this system prevents us from making hasty
decisions that might end up being poor ones in the long run.
Smart goals are:
Specific
Measurable (How will you know you have arrived?)
Action-Oriented (What are you going to do?)
Realistic (Can you do this? Have you considered challenges to your goals?)
Timely (What timelines have you put on yourself and your project? When will
you achieve this?)
Key Question #80
What are your short-term goals for education and work? You may use any of your goals
listed in Key Question #79. List 2 goals for each of education and work.
Using the SMART system above, outline how you will meet each of these 4 goals. For
example, if my 2 educational goals are first - to complete high school and, second - to
get into a chosen program at college, how would I do this by outlining each of the
SMART criteria?
Essential Skills Work Plan
Barriers to Goals
Every effort must be made to achieve your goals but sometimes things will get in the
way. Sometimes we can control these things; sometimes we cannot control these
things. The most common barriers to goals are:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
time
money
family commitments
lack of interest
changing life conditions
pressure to abandon your goals
peers
Key Question #81
Think of a goal you have now or once had. What barriers existed to get in the way of
achieving your goal? How did you overcome these barriers? Did your efforts
succeed? Explain.
Experience Learning Plan
All students in GLC2O will complete a work experience learning plan. Some students
will relate their plan to a worksite at which they already are employed while others may
not be able to do that. If you do not have a workplace right now, you are to think of a
job which you are hoping to get in the near future and use that job as the basis of this
Experiential Learning Plan. Even though no two students will have the same
placement, their learning experiences may be quite similar (or different) depending upon
the workplace. This is true of the field of work – everyone’s job is a little different from
the next person’s, sometimes even if they perceive they are doing the same job.
This course uses experiential learning as an essential part of the learning of students.
Experiential Learning:
1. helps students become informed about careers and career options
2. informs students of the educational requirements necessary for a particular
career
3. encourages students to examine their future course options
4. allows students to experience and observe workplace Essential Skills in an
authentic setting
5. reinforces workplace responsibilities such as punctuality, appropriate dress, and
confidentiality
6. encourages students to continue their education
7. prepares students for future experiential learning opportunities
8. involves the community in a school-based career education program
9. provides opportunities for students to begin planning future educational
requirements for a career of interest
Job Shadowing
Job shadowing allows a student to spend some time (e.g., a half day or one full day)
with a specific supervisor in a work environment. The student would go through the
supervisor’s day with him/her and experience what it is like to do that job. Often the
supervisor will show the “inside aspects” of the job and this is very beneficial to the
student. You do not need to job shadow anyone but please observe people in the
workplace either at your work or when you are in shops, etc.
Key Question #82
If you were to choose right now some position to job shadow, what position would that
be? Why would you choose that position? Would anything make you nervous about
the experience? What skills do you already bring to that job position? Why might job
shadowing be beneficial to you? Explain.
Key Question #83
This key question is the one of the major assignments of Unit 2 and you will need to
spend a considerable amount of time on its completion. When you have finished you
will have completed your Essential Skills Work Plan. In order to complete this
assignment you will need access to a computer and the Internet. You will be using the
Ontario Skills Passport to complete the assignment. Do not worry about how to do the
assignment – you will be following step-by-step instructions.
Instructions:
Go to the Ontario Skills Passport Site:
http://skillsdemo.edu.gov.on.ca/OSPWeb/jsp/index.jsp
Click:
English
Click:
Create a Work Plan
On the Create a Work Plan page:
Find an NOC code for an occupation that interests you (follow the
link at the bottom of the page and follow the instructions until you
find an NOC code. It is probably easiest to view the list sorted by
title.
Once you have a NOC code, click “Create a Work Plan” at the
bottom of the page to proceed.
Enter:
Click:
Click:
Type in the NOC code that you have found and click “Next”
Let me create a customized OSP work plan step-by-step
Next
You are at the Choose Skills page. Select the skills – including the most important
Essential Skills for this occupation that you think will be important for your work
experience. Example, Pet Groomers and Animal Care Worker (NOC 6483) most
essential skills for this occupation are oral communication (this skill is pre-selected on
the screen)
Select additional skills (your choice) to determine essential skills that you may be able
to perform in this position. Note: You will see (level#1) in brackets beside tasks.
This indicates the complexity level of the task, example, Pet Groomers and Animal Care
Workers – use of money math, job task planning, reading
Click:
Read:
Select
Click:
Read:
Complete:
Click:
Read:
Save:
Repeat:
Print:
Next
Choose Tasks. Check all tasks that are applicable to your work
plan. Delete the check marks from tasks that do not apply.
no more that 5-8 tasks for your work plan.
Next
Personalize your work plan
Your name is the only mandatory field
Next
Review your work plan
your Work Plan as a file in the format of your choice
do this again for another career that interests you
your Work Plans to submit for marking
Key Question #84
This question is the second of the major assignments in Unit 2. In this assignment, you
will be preparing for work experiences using the Job Futures Canada Website. This
assignment will allow you to find the tasks that use essential skills in the occupation of
interest to you. To complete this assignment, you will again need a computer and
Internet access. You will need to follow the directions very carefully as you did in Key
Question #83.
Instructions:
Go to:
Search by:
Click:
Select:
Examine:
Job Futures Data Base
http://www.jobfutures.ca/en/interface-be.shtml
Under “I want to be” you can search by Alphabet, Interest, NOC or
Work Prospects. You will need to go to another site if you choose to
find the NOC.
Alphabet – use the same job titles that you used in Key Question
#83.
View entire profile
All areas of this profile.
Using this method – create profiles of two careers detailing all of the information
contained in this website.
Summarize your findings – is this a job possibility for you in the future? How likely are
you of actually working towards this position? Is this a good choice?
Key Question #85
You are to reflect on a job position you have held in the past. If this does not relate to
your particular situation, you will need to interview someone who is in the workplace.
The questions you are to ask the person or yourself for reflection are:
1. Did you apply health and safety skills properly?
2. Do you wear any necessary protective wear while on the job?
3. Do you use tools/equipment responsibly and safely?
4. Do you manage personal responses (communication) well?
5. Do you remain calm when dealing with issues?
6. Do you respond appropriately to feedback?
7. Do you assume responsibility for your own actions?
8. Do you work well with others?
9. Do you work well on your own?
10. Do you follow through on assigned tasks?
11. Do you consider the needs and ideas of others?
12. Do you avoid sarcasm and put-downs? Do you listen attentively?
13. Do you ask questions to ensure understanding?
14. Do you speak clearly?
15. Do you disagree respectfully?
16. Do you plan time well?
17. Do you use time efficiently during task completion?
18. Do you complete tasks on time?
19. Do you create to-do lists to prioritize tasks?
Write your reflections to these 19 questions, (giving examples where you can). If you
are interviewing someone, ask them to provide examples for you.
Key Question #86
Think about all you have done in this lesson regarding goal setting and the learning plan
you developed. Using the information you have read and come up with, identify
postsecondary / training options that are suited to you. Suggest what you believe
would be your ideal program once you leave high school. (Remember this could be an
apprenticeship program, on-the-job training, college or university based.)
1. What courses might you still need to take to move you in that direction?
2. Are there any community activities that you might consider to improve your
chances of entering that program?
3. What might they be?
4. Why did you make the decisions you made? Explain your reasoning.
Summary of Lesson 10
Lesson 10 provided you with an opportunity to look at your goals, both short term and
long term and to set some goals with your career future in mind. By looking at the
barriers to these goals, you can decide how to go about tackling the issue and therefore
the chance of your success in achieving the goal is greater. Also the Essential Skills
Work Plan is significant when determining future decisions regarding your choice of
occupation.
You have now finished the course, GLC2O.
Congratulations!!
Good luck on the final exam.