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A remarkable and fascinating outcome of education and life experience
is the many directions it can take you in! It is a fallacy to expect
a career path to be one directional and a belief in this myth can cause
unnecessary worry and concern. Career development is not a one-way street
and experience in working environments can help to broaden the choices
or options available to you and from which you can make more informed
career decisions.
If you are considering a change in career direction or commencing a
course of study but you are undecided of whether it will really suit
your needs or what career pathways or occupational outcomes will result,
do not overlook information interviewing as your first step to reassure
you or to answer your concerns.
" An informational interview involves talking with people who
are currently working in the field to gain a better understanding of
an occupation or industry -- and to build a network of contacts in that
field."
Quintessential Careers
There are many benefits in testing your personal perceptions to what
really happens in the labour market! Getting the facts first hand can
not only save you lots of effort, time and money, it can consolidate
reasons for investing in further education, changing jobs or career
pathways. The resources on this web site will assist you to work through
your options. Additionally, the Employment Directions Network run workshops
and one-on-one sessions to give you the skills and confidence to find
an experience that relates to your career goals. To find your nearest
office call 13 64 64.
Case Study: What is work experience for you?
I completed a Bachelor of Commerce, double majors in Management and
Marketing a few years ago but was unable to put it into practice. I
was seeking employment in my field of study but found employment in
an office administration role. I am currently studying a Diploma of
Event Management as this is more specific to the career path I want
to take.
I wished to put my degree to good use so I asked friends if they new
of any work experience possibilities at their workplaces. I was offered
work experience at the Department of Education and Training, organising
promotional materials and assisting in events. Here I was able to acquire
skills and knowledge and apply them in the workplace, and I obtained
a greater understanding in my choice of career. My valuable work experience
was attained through the pursuit of my contact, involved in a career
exposed to the field of work that I desired, given my fields of study.
Work experience is a fantastic opportunity to learn important skills
and build on your knowledge gained through practical application. If
you show a keenness and determination you may be offered a placement
in the company. Work experience is an asset to your resume and makes
you more job marketable. Anna Sharkey
Resources
EDN Work Experience
Guidelines - [.pdf | 179.66 kb]
The Employment Directions Network (EDN) extends across Western Australia
and is funded by the Department of Education and Training. It is a valuable
community resource that can support employers through promoting work
experience vacancies and assist those looking for work experience opportunities.
Mature
Experience Seekers Test Drive Your New Career
ThirdAge network of sites is to rewrite the rules of getting older and
transform the voice of aging from one of limitation to one of possibility.
Inspired by the French term "Troisième Âge,"
ThirdAge refers to the concept of lifelong learning, self-development
and fulfilment, and the period of life following young adulthood, yet
preceding "seniorhood" and retirement.
Professional
Associations
Professional associations can be very helpful in identifying various
forms of work experience within a discipline. While options between
associations will vary, it is a good idea to research what
opportunities
are available to you by first reading the industry perspectives and
gathering information about work experience options using a technique
called information interviewing.
Report:
Family and work: the family’s perspective
This research aimed to explore the way that children experience family
life across a range of circumstances, with particular emphasis on their
perceptions of the impact of the employment choices - or imperatives
- of their parents on their lives.
Information
interviewing workshop from Quintessential Careers
An informational interview should be an integral part of your networking
and job-hunting plan. An informational interview involves talking with
people who are currently working in the field to gain a better understanding
of an occupation or industry -- and to build a network of contacts in
that field.
Youth
Pathways Programme
The Youth Pathways Programme helps young people make the transition
through school and from school to further education, training or employment
- assistance includes assistance with work experience placements.
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