Extending Chapter 2: Financial Aspects of Career Planning

What You'll Do and Learn

• You'll learn about researching potential careers through company Web sites.
• You'll explore job opportunities advertised on the Standard & Poor's Web site.

Introduction

In this activity you will explore career development programs and job opportunities currently available at Standard & Poor's by visiting the S&P Web site.

Chapter Notes

You can think of your future employment either as a job or as a career. Both may require a certain level of education and specific skills. As you learned in Chapter 2, a career involves a long-term commitment to continuing to develop your knowledge and skills in a particular area. Understandably, many young people do not have clear career goals. They may work in several different jobs and then find one that sparks their interest in developing a career.

Many large companies offer special programs designed to provide opportunities for career growth. These programs may include continuing education, the opportunity to work in several different jobs, and mentoring by experienced managers in the company. Entrance into one of these programs usually requires a degree in a specific field and several years' work experience.

As you begin thinking about your employment goals, gather information about the different types of jobs, careers, and career development programs that are available. Many companies make this information available on the Internet. Even though it may be several years before you are ready to begin your career, it's a good idea to be aware of the opportunities that are available. If you think a certain career may be of interest to you, try taking a summer job in an entry-level position in that field. Your career interests can also influence your decisions about which college to attend.

Site Notes

The Standard & Poor's Web site includes a section on jobs available at Standard & Poor's. Jobs are grouped by category. Each job title provides information on the responsibilities and activities that the job entails and required education or skills. The career section also provides information about employee benefits and opportunities for continued skill development through training provided by Standard & Poor's.

Let Me Try

Go to the S&P site at www.standardandpoors.com and then print the Worksheet activity.

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