What Color Is Your Parachute? 2008: A Practical Manual for Job-hunters and Career-Changers Reviews

• Tremendous resource

  
  By AZXGPM8EKSHE9 on 2007-10-15
  I am currently between jobs, and use this book every day to plan my job search. It is literally like a shot of confidence in the arm. The book is full of great insights not just on the job search, but also on the entire psychology of it all. It has great websites you can use to do career tests and personality tests. The great thing about the book is that the author has so much experience, so is able to draw on those many years, to give advice. It is like having a high-paid careeer coach. I can't recommend this book enough.
  
  

• Still an Ageless Classic - Take a Journey in Career Exploration

  
  By A1TKM36EYEQNSM on 2007-11-14
  They call it the number one career book of all time, mainly because it released annually. Parachute is really a primer in career exploration. Other books add a ton of value after you get this foundation. Because of that, Bolle's is timeless for job seekers of all kinds. I feel that his book updated each year to meet the current trends in society is critical. He needs to address those issues, like the web, downturn in the economy and the like.
  
  The most critical part of the book is the self evaluation section. This is a very structured process that can be used intutitively as well. Bolles asks you to write a few stories about yourself, then, what did you like and dislike about those stories? What did you do well, where did you fail or feel challenged beyond your abilities? These are the critical areas of the book that take time to get through, yet you can evaluate yourself and understand what you like, it is what you do best, usually.
  
  We excel what we are good at, according to Bolles, this method will help us discover what we are best at.
  
  I have recommended this book to many over the years, and still do. Whether someone is in college, or someone is going through a long term transition after being in a job for a long time or moms returning to the work place, this book will be very instructive for you.
  
  One of his processes is very simple asking you to compare who you would most like to talk with or groups of people you would rather relate with. This is a standard set of tests for some very expensive career consulting, he gives it to you for the price of his book and the time to self evaluate yourself. Then, he breaks down the possible job areas and skill sets related to these groups.
  
  Again, a worthwhile journey for anyone not wanting to wander any longer in the world of work.
  
  JOE SLEVIN
  Job Coach
  
  
  
  

• A classic guide for job seekers and career changers

  
  By A1NATT3PN24QWY on 2007-11-22
  Today's job market is harsh and cold-blooded. Indeed, nothing guarantees that the job you have now will be available tomorrow. Your job (and you) may be downsized or outsourced. Plus, many people must now accommodate themselves to the status of part-time workers, even those with jobs that used to be full-time, salaried positions. Competition is fierce for good - and even mediocre - jobs. How do you manage to stay employed in such a cutthroat environment? Since the early '70s, people looking for employment or career change have turned to this bestseller by Richard Nelson Bolles. This updated classic is filled useful information. One caveat: Bolles notes that his statistical results are a "mashup of research and hunches," so take them as indicative, but perhaps not as scientific. And if not every suggestion is a gem, he still gives you plenty of options. Those who also appreciate a spiritual message amid the practicalities will find that as well, so if that isn't your cup of tea, consider yourself warned. We recommend this guide to anyone who needs to find a good job, or who wants - or needs - to make a career change.
  
  

• Not Too Useful

  
  By AVOWQEFO0P3B4 on 2008-07-18
  I don't understand why this book is considered such a classic reference. I found it badly written, not that useful, and WAY too religious. The chapter about how to determine your true mission in life is ALL about God and religion. You may agree or disagree with the author's religious views, but regardless I do not think that belongs in a job-hunting book. As a disillusioned corporate worker trying to change careers, I really needed practical, real-world advice.
  
  The book seems to written for ADD people because it keeps repeating the same things only a couple of pages later. Also, some of his advice I disagree with - he keeps saying that the Internet is not a good way to get a job. What century is he living in?? I have gotten almost all my jobs over the last 12 years through applying over the Internet (Monster, CareerBuilder, etc.)
  
  It has a few listings of sites that may be useful, but the book overall was a waste. Unless you want to bring it to your Bible study group.
  
  

• Best Career Advice Book Ever!

  
  By AS4EMTQ1YJ00S on 2008-02-23
  Before buying this book, I was doing seemingly all I could to find a new job, yet nothing was happening. No interviews were being scheduled...not even responses saying that someone more qualified was hired. I felt like I was in the career twilight zone where my efforts were not only futile, but frustrating.
  
  As it turns out, I was barking up the wrong tree! After purchasing this book pursuant to a good friend's advice, I realized exactly why I felt nonexistent...because I was relying on the worst methods of job hunting expecting the best results. This book provided me with those methods that are tried and true for growing professionals looking for the right position. Just one week after reading the book and using its techniques, I started getting bites...and finally, I hooked the big one!
  
  Thank you for such an insightful, well written, easy to read book! I recommend this book for professionals young and old that are looking for that dream job and, more specifically, how to prepare themselves for the process to getting there!!!
  
  
• Excellent starting place for info on job hunting or career changing
  By A3P8ZDHC7XSKSE on 2008-07-01
  My husband was laid off when the company he had worked for was acquired. My husband has very little experience with job hunting. I work as a Staffing recruiter so none of the information in here was news to me, but after my husband went through a month of disheartening job hunting... I ordered him this book. Sometimes it's just better to hear what you need to do from something or someone other than your wife.
  
  As a recruiter I love this book, it goes into the concept of job hunting, interviewing, and how to decided exactly what it is you want to do. If everyone behaved as instructed in here during their interviews, interviewing candidates would not be such a harrowing experience. Many will read the interviewing part and thing "Duh, of COURSE I shower before an interview" but you would be surprised at how many do not.
  
  The foundation of the education you will get in this book is basic social skills... now we all have them, but many of us have let them lapse or become less formal. I was also glad that he pointed out just how important and unimportant the resume is. I personally rifle through a couple of hundred resumes in a stack looking for something very specific - if I find it, you go in the very small, "I'll think about calling them later" pile. That is really the most important job your resume has, is to get you into the "I might call them pile."
  
  There are also many self awareness tests that this book contains to help you find out a little bit more about yourself and what it is that you are looking for. There is an entire chapter devoted to the 50+ worker who either wants to return to the work force or make a change in their career. The starting your own business section was also nice, but I felt should have contained a little more information showing both the good and bad aspects of this idea. Probably the most helpful aspect of this book is that it provides websites for additional research on every topic. Hopefully those that read the book will be inclined to look into several of these websites.
  
  For job hunters, career changers, and those curious about what else might be out there, this book is an excellent starting place. It should cover most of you basic questions and give you valuable information both about yourself and about the job market. Then the author is courteous enough to show you where to continue your research. I highly recommend this book, and believe it should be mandatory for exiting high school and college students.
  
  
  
• A really good guide for job hunting
  By A21LW1J1FRCUH1 on 2007-12-02
  Highly recommended!
  I was reluctant to use a "book" as a career guide. But after my Professor recommended this book, I bought it. The first few hours with the book itself gave me a whole new look at job search. My frustration dropped and I realized there was so much more I could try rather than just uploading resume to online job sites.
  I would say that the book is targeted towards more mature audience, and almost 30% of it is not really applicable to a fresh graduating student. Still the content covered in the other 70% is definitely worth reading.
  Many sentences are repeated again and again, which is annoying at times, but maybe required to get the point across. I would definitely read this book again every year, but preferably if there is a refresher edition which is more concise.
  
  
• Continued excellence.
  By A3D8F8NGSYG3PC on 2007-11-09
  Richard Bolles' book has been around since the decade of the 1970's, yet it is not the same book... only the same title. The book continues to be up-to-date and valid for helping people find their way to meaningful employment.
  
  
• ALOT of meandering...
  By A2OFY05DIDLL4X on 2008-08-10
  I think I have an idea of what the writer is trying to accomplish but his book could have been simpler and more concise. I found the book difficult to apprehend for people frustrated in life and unsure of what to do next. I'd like to give this warning...if you aren't inclined towards religion you will have problems with this book because the author uses God as an affirmative defense for the outcome of every decision the reader has to make. I believe in God but I also believe in free will and that God does not micro-manage our life styles. That God is concerned in long term consequences resulting from poor planning or the lack of it but not necessarily in every decision we have to make. That being said if you are already aware of the passion that drives you but aren't quite sure how to bring it to fruition there are perhaps, a number of other books better suited to the task of helping you realize your full potential.
  
  
• What color is your review
  By AMKZS5RPZTDRZ on 2008-03-01
  The book is everything I hoped for...very useful information written in a humorous and entertaining manner. I recommend it to anyone interested in finding out more about themselves.
  
  
• Okay
  By A2R8OP9J5XMJFR on 2008-04-25
  I am looking for a new career, I bought Mr Instability and it was a huge burst of inspiration, and hilarious. I got this book for more practical tips, I liked it but the information thats in it, is common sense and you can find free online. But overall worth the read!
  
  
• Good read for new comers
  By A30BMSGPJ8WJPE on 2008-04-27
  This book had a lot of common sense in it. Networking, interview skills, sending thank-you's etc. If you have been in the job world for a decent amount of time, this comes second nature. But for someone who has been out of the game for a while or straight out of college, this book has some good tips.
  
  
• Great Book
  By A1GZRSQ5RSK17M on 2008-06-02
  This book really helped me decide what I wanted to do and where I wanted to go with my career. I highly recommend it to anyone who is job hunting or thinking about changing careers. The best part about this book is that it updates annually so there is always new stuff to read and consider.
  
  
• First Book To Buy for Job Hunting
  By A3FVAWZNKW9GX on 2008-03-13
  "What Color Is Your Parachute" is the first book you need if finding a job is your goal. If you've not bought this yet, you haven't started looking. It is that good.
  
  Richard Bolles is the expert. His books sell because they are fresh each year with insight, purpose and ideas for determining what job you should do, and how to get it.
  
  I used "Parachute" to get my first job. It continues to influence me today, as I keep my eyes open for a possible career change.
  
  Thoroughly practical, Bolles asks you questions about your mission in life. His belief is that just getting a job (any job) -- even ones you are good at -- won't be a wise decision in the long haul. He helps you see your passions mixed with skills and experience, and guides you to getting there. Though it is hardly a self-help book, it is far more useful than the ones clogging up the Top 10 list.
  
  He keeps you accountable. Finding a job is your job if that's what you say you want. And if you aren't working, he won't let you make excuses -- you've got the time. Either you are looking or you aren't. Dr. Phil could take a note from Bolles' direct yet congenial style.
  
  Bolles has kept current, with a significant look at the internet, starting your own business, dealing with the tempestuous employment marketplace, working in an unpleasant situation, and more.
  
  Don't bother with the hardcover. You need the paperback. This is not a sit-on-the-shelf book, but a get-down-to-business book, and you'll appreciate the flexibility while at work or on the train.
  
  I fully recommend, "What Color Is Your Parachute" by Richard Nelson Bolles.
  
  Anthony Trendl
  editor, HungarianBookstore.com
  
  
• Not Bad
  By A9G2ZD7YTGR39 on 2008-05-01
  I agree with one of the other reviewer that Mr Instability is an awesome book and inspirational, but I also got the guy who wrote its kindle Interview tips from a chronic job hopper for like 2 bucks and it was dead on! Anyway this is is an okay book, not alot of changes from the 2007 version.
  
  
• This Book Shaped My Life
  By A1RJXZK3HI96GO on 2008-06-13
  Not only does Bolles offer practical tools for getting jobs, but he leads readers who want it through exercises in self reflection that helped me find work that I now see as my life calling. I recommend this to anyone who's trying to figure out what direction to take in their next career step.
  
  
• The Job Hunt Classic
  By A1HTNPRGW760UW on 2008-06-21
  I first read this book in the 80s, and it just keeps getting better. The one thing, is you must to the exercises in the book and not just read it. They really help. This copy is for my son who is in college right now.
  
  A must read for anyone that wants a job they will love!
  
  
• A Must-Read for Those on the Voyage of Self-Discovery
  By A3L666DNGYZIS2 on 2008-07-23
  For those unsure of what lies ahead, this book is the perfect must-read. It will guide you through the voyage of self-discovery to assist you in choosing the career/work environment that best fits your personality. What could be better than finding a career you love?
  
  
• What a lifesaver!
  By A1CZWPXHDIHSXY on 2008-07-25
  This book is truly a lifesaver, and it's updated every year. I have not had to look for a job in 20 years, and didn't truly know how to write a professional resume. Not only did I learn alot about writing resumes but I also learned alot about myself! This is a book I will keep close at hand always. I love it!
  
  
• It was all good...
  By A30S4T3A30DZEL on 2007-10-30
  The book arrived in great condition and it was shipped promptly. I would buy from this vendor again.
  
  
• Great Guide for Job Hunters!
  By A1DUDDAY8YKGLN on 2008-02-09
  This book is filled with practical suggestions about the best approaches for looking for a new job, or career. Highly recommended!
  
  
• Great Career Book!
  By A1WJNJP7Y8G3EV on 2008-02-12
  I had to buy this book for a class, but it is soooo full of info I read it for fun now. GREAT book.
  
  
• Great Book
  By A4CN6DWXJPOXO on 2008-02-22
  I purchased this book because it was a requirement for class. It's pretty easy to read and follow along. Well written and thought out. I highly recomment this book for anyone who is considering a career change or who has yet to figure out what they want to do.
  
  
• Very Helpful
  By A6P04A4X4AUNC on 2008-02-25
  This book was recommended to me by a coworker. I bought it for my husband who is currently undergoing a job search and he has found it very helpful.
  
  
• Lots of good information
  By A1W21HXO2OFON0 on 2008-03-01
  Has web resources, tips on developing your network and deciding what you'd like to do
  
  
• Great Resource
  By A3TKKA80RQG69J on 2008-03-21
  Highly recommend this book to anyone wishing to start a new career. It contains less on this subject than I had hoped but it is all-inclusive for anyone job hunting -- whether for your first job or your tenth.
  
  
• Thank you Mr. Bolles
  By A1HJDCQGLDOM57 on 2008-04-07
  The exercises of self discovery, the philosophical guidelines, the many sources of further info and the well organized presentation of it all are simply terrific. And to say it is easy to read and understand is a gross understatement. Thank you Mr. Bolles.
  
  
• Great book!
  By A125D9AEPZNTBB on 2008-04-14
  Richard Bolles is a most gifted writer and he helps job hunters and career-changers with his book that is chock full of good advice and has a wonderful "mission statement" that is a gift to the reader.
  
  To get his updated book each year gives me a sense of reassurance in these challenging times and his book is pretty thorough in giving every kind of good advice all in one very affordable book!
  
  This book is not only just a great book for job hunters and career-changers, it would be a great book for high school students to help them explore their talents and get a better idea of what career path to follow.
  
  
• great experience
  By A2KRHNJMDDT37V on 2008-04-26
  Wonderful experience! I had made 3 seperate purchases, this being the last. The book actually came first out of the 3. Thanks Amazon!
  
  
• This one's a keeper...
  By A3DF7P2A54LJQH on 2008-05-05
  I was highly skeptical that I'd actually learn anything new from this book, but it has surprised me with little gems of knowledge that make buying this book worthwhile. A few chapters I could care less for- ie. Chpt 10 and 11, but all in all I think the book has certainly helped me and will help others as well. I've stuck little sticky flags throughout the book, highlighted some excerpts... and have a feeling that I'll come back to this book throughout my career development.
  
  

• What Color Is Your Parachute Workbook: How to Create a Picture of Your Ideal Job or Next Career
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• Do What You Are: Discover the Perfect Career for You Through the Secrets of Personality Type
• What Color Is Your Parachute for Teens: Discovering Yourself, Defining Your Future
• What Color Is Your Parachute? for Retirement: Planning Now for the Life You Want