ABSTRACT

Now that your planning degree is in sight or in hand, how and where can you find your "dream job?" Once you're on the job, what can you do to not just survive, but thrive and avoid common professional pitfalls? In A Career Worth Planning, two veteran planners offer a road map for success. Packed with practical information and useful advice, it is must reading for planning students, new planners, and experienced planners looking to advance their careers.

Career questions can paralyze beginning planners. What are the differences between working for a public planning agency or a private consulting firm? What does an employer look for in a job candidate? How can you set yourself apart from other job hunters through your resume and in an interview? A Career Worth Planning answers these tough questions and many others.

But landing a job is only half the battle. Once you're there, how do you negotiate the career ladder, even in the most difficult circumstances? Here are nuggets of wisdom on how to deal with a bad boss, identify crucial "insiders" who can make or break your success on the job, clarify ethical conflicts, manage political land mines, and yes, even evaluate your job satisfaction and determine when you're ready to move on.

Wherever you are along your career path, this book will help you assess your skills, preferences, and work style, and find the planning niche that fits you.

part I|83 pages

Starting Your Career

chapter 1|20 pages

The Planning Profession and You

chapter 2|10 pages

What Employers Are Looking For

chapter 3|19 pages

Landing Your First Job

chapter 4|17 pages

What to Expect From Your Job

chapter 5|13 pages

For Whom Are You Working?

part II|81 pages

Developing Your Career

chapter 6|9 pages

Essential Communication Skills

chapter 7|21 pages

Essential Management Skills

chapter 8|19 pages

Essential Political Skills

chapter 9|9 pages

Twelve Traps to Avoid

chapter 10|17 pages

Setting a Career Path for Yourself