I had the honor, and the distinct pleasure, of talking with Richard Bolles, author of What Color is Your Parachute, about the 2008 edition of the book.
The Secret to Successful Job Hunting
You might think that a book that has been around since 1970, on topics like job hunting and career changing that have evolved tremendously (especially since the Internet came along) might be dated. It's not, however, and the 2008 edition is full of new suggestions, along with the classic advice that continues to hold true today.One of the reasons that the book still works so well is that, even though how and where we look for jobs has changed signficantly over the years, the basic premise of the book remains the same. If you follow that premise: the secret to a successful job hunt starts with knowing ourselves - you will be well positioned to successfully job search or change your career.
Worksheets, Tools, and Exercises
The worksheets, tools, grids, and exercises will help you figure out your strengths and who you are, and help you position yourself to job search effectively. In fact, Bolles told me that the primary reason that job seekers have a hard time finding employment is that they haven't started at the beginning. He says, "You need to be knowledgeable about yourself and know your interests." So, just reading the book isn't enough - you need to take it a step further and use the tools in the book.New Chapters and Advice
There are two new chapters (added at readers' requests) in this edition of the book. One focuses on baby-boomers and how they can market themselves in a culture that often focuses on youth. Bolles shared his advice for competing, telling me that energy (and enthusiasm for work) are what's important. The employer is going to want to know what kind of energy you have left. He also told me how "older" job seekers can convey the energy they have:- Lean forward in their chair when interviewing.
- Don't slouch.
- Be alive and energetic.
- Be aware of your image and the impression you are making on the employer.
The other new chapter is on "Getting Unstuck" when you're trying to change careers. Most of us get stuck at some point in our working lives. In fact, I can't count the number of people who have told me that they are stuck in their job and they can't move on. The book provides strategies for helping those who need a hand to get unstuck.
About the Book
What Color is Your Parachute is the world’s top selling job search and career book, has been a New York Times bestseller for six years running, and The Library of Congress Center for the Book chose the book as one of the "25 Books That Have Shaped Readers’ Lives" in 1995.
