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Learn about Occupations
There are many excellent sources on the Internet! Our
five favorites are listed below. While they are primarily
written for the person who expects to be employed, they
all have information that will help a person who is considering
self-employment.
Note: As outstanding as these websites are, do not rely solely on them for information. They are open to error. They did not forecast the current economic situation, for example. The methods described at Learn
about Jobs that Interest Me are highly recommended. They can give you valuable information you can get no other way.
- The Occupational
Outlook Handbook gives accurate,
up-to-date, and comprehensive information
on occupations. It describes approximately
250 jobs, covering 90% of all workers --
earnings, training and education needed,
working conditions, skills required, advancement
opportunities, projected growth, related
jobs, and sources of additional information.
In addition, use the methods described at Learn
about Occupations
at our companion website, The
Career Key.
- America's
Career InfoNet provides extensive information
for the nation and specific states. For example
you can learn about wages, job market trends, and
the skills needed for specific occupations.
- Career Videos. See "real people doing real work." You
choose from nearly 550 occupations.
- If you want a technical analysis of how the population,
labor force, and the demand for goods and services is
likely to affect career and business opportunities, then
you will want to read Tomorrow's
Jobs.
- The Career
Guide to Industries is an outstanding
source to learn about the business potential
for occupations in different industries. For
example, if you checkout the construction
industry, you will learn which construction
jobs have the largest percentage of self-employed workers:
The "Outlook" section is particularly valuable. For example,
you learn that nearly all construction occupations are expected to grow significantly
in the next ten years, but some are not:
"Employment of tile and marble setters; construction and building
inspectors; and heating, air-conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and
installers is projected to grow faster than the industry average because
their specialized services will be in greater demand. On the other hand,
employment of carpet installers; construction laborers; floor sanders and
finishers; insulation workers; paperhangers; plasters and stucco masons;
and tapers are expected to grow more slowly than that of the construction
industry as a whole because either their specialty is not as great demand
or they are becoming more productive."
As this quote shows, the Guide is not easy to read, but the information is valuable. And,
it is the most complete and accurate source available. It is well worth
your careful study.
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