Career Planning
About career planning
Career planning is the process of matching your interests and abilities with the options available to you. It is a process that you will continually think about throughout your life.
Employment and Social Services Employment Centre staff can help you explore questions related to career planning such as:
Career and Life Planning Cycle
This is a process you may repeat many times,
learning from your experiences each step of the way.
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When you are not sure about what you want to do…Focus on learning more about yourself. |
You will make better career decisions when you have a clear understanding of who you are and what you want in your work and life. For a listing of websites that can help you explore your interests, skills, values and personality, visit online employment resources.
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When you are not sure about what options are out there…
Focus on finding more information about work, learning and your community. |
Career exploration involves learning more about occupations, employment trends, labour market information, education and training options. For a listing of websites that can help you explore these trends and options, visit online employment resources.
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When you are not sure about what to do next…Focus on making a plan and taking the next steps. |
Taking action involves planning on how to reach your goal. For a listing of websites that can help you learn how to create an effective resume and cover letter, explore job search techniques, and prepare for interviews, visit online employment resources.
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If you are receiving Ontario Works, you can receive help with career planning through a Pre-Employment Development program. You can also find out more about Employment and Social Services’ other employment services.
Pre-Employment Development programs
If you are receiving Ontario Works, a caseworker can refer you to a Pre-Employment Development program that is available through Employment and Social Services. These programs can help you figure out your employment goal and make a plan to reach that goal.
The programs take place at various agencies and run from 2 to 12 weeks. Depending on the program, you can expect to receive services such as:
- tests to explore your strengths and interests
- help in looking into career choices and in doing labour market research
- workshops and classroom instruction to help you with your job search
- a chance to gain work experience through an unpaid work placement
- help with developing your employment plan that will outline the steps you will take to find the right job for you, and
- follow-up support, if needed, to help you reach your goals. (This help is available during the four months after the program.)
Once the Pre-Employment Development program is complete, you will have developed your employment plan. It will outline your short-term and long-term goals based on your interests, abilities and employment goals. Your next steps may include:
For more information, talk to your caseworker or go to an Employment Centre.
Career planning resources
