CAREER AND VOCATIONAL EDUCATION

YEAR 11 ATAR CAREER AND ENTERPRISE

2TASK BOOK
Networks and Opportunities

Career development and management

strategies that give an individual an advantage in the workplace, including:
 taking advantage of work opportunities
 undertaking training
 seeking learning opportunities
strategies to assist in making decisions in a work context, including:
 choosing from a set of pre-determined options
 using a formal decision-making process

 the concept of e-networks

 how social media can be used as a career development tool

Entrepreneurial behaviours
taking personal risks when making career decisions, including:
 relocating
 accepting less pay
 taking a gap year
 undergoing re-training
remaining employable in constantly changing workplaces, including:
 undertaking training and up-skilling
 networking and e-networking
considering labour market information to identify employment opportunities, including:
 self-employment opportunities
 business and product development

Work skills
ways to build networks that will enhance career opportunities, including:
 identifying people you feel comfortable talking to and whose advice you listen to
 increasing the range of people you know in a work role
 using of technology to help expand networks
strategies to deal with unexpected events in a workplace

1
ENTREPRENEURIAL BEHAVIOURS

Watch: Destination Mars – Foreign Correspondent https://www.abc.net.au/foreign/destination-

mars/13565384 (31.53min) or The Elon Musk Show SBS 3 part series
https://www.sbs.com.au/ondemand/tv-series/the-elon-musk-show/season-1/the-elon-musk-show-s1-
ep1/2180381251766 or The Billionaires that changed our lives SBS
https://www.sbs.com.au/ondemand/tv-series/the-billionaires-who-made-our-world.

Musk is a polarising figure. What did he do with Twitter (X) in 2023?

What do you think Musk’s goals are (in business)?

Why is Elon Musk considered an entrepreneur? Do you admire or deplore Musk?

What personal risks does Musk, or any other entrepreneur, take in his/her career?

2
Choose an entrepreneur(s) and fill in the following table with some RWE’s and relevant details.

What entrepreneurial behaviours are displayed?

How? Include details.

Extension activity: Compare innovation in private industry to government. How do they differ and why?

3
 Private industry) Government

TAKING PERSONAL RISKS WHEN MAKING CAREER

DECISIONS, INCLUDING:
Any new job offer is an opportunity. But with opportunity comes risk. These risks are prevalent in any
career decision, especially those that affect your financial security and personal life.

Task: Are you a career risk taker? Or do you play it safe?

Take the test: http://www.humanmetrics.com/rot/rotqd.asp

1. Take the test and determine your attitude to risk: LOW  MODERATE  HIGH 

2. Write down the personality descriptions of risk type that apply to you.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________

3. Do you agree or disagree with this analysis? Explain your answer.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________

1. RELOCATING
If you were offered a job in another city or your current
employer asked you to relocate, would you make the
move? Some would say yes in a heartbeat, while others
might struggle with the uncertainty that accompanies
such a big change. It could be the result of attaining a
promotional position, a closure of your current office,
the result of a merger of companies, personal reasons
(eg., moving due to your partner’s work situation), or many
other reasons. Moving will mean altering your regular work habits and creating new
ones. Establishing new professional working relationships and new ways of operating. It might also

4
include a new cultural experience depending on where you move. The big risk here is the unknown. Will
you be happier and more successful? By relocating you will be potentially starting from scratch, and
this could be hard work. It can also pay off personally and professionally.

Pros

Relocating

Cons

You take yourself to where the jobs are.

Forces independence which creates transferable

Potentional
skills
Access to better quality and more secure career-
related work

benefits
Expands your network
Exposes you to new cultures and different ways of
doing things

Loneliness and homesickness

Have to support yourself living independently

Risks to
Losing your current network
Have to establish yourself in a new community
The job may not be long-term or secure.

manage

Scenario Task: In pairs, research and discuss the pros and cons of taking the risk of relocating for your
career from Perth to either Melbourne or New York. Complete the chart below, include RWE’s:

Melbourne New York

Pros Pros

5
 Cons Cons

2. ACCEPTING LESS PAY

When evaluating a job, there are many different factors to consider in addition to salary. The job itself,
your level of responsibility, your title, potential for future growth etc. There are also compensation
perks, vacation time, bonuses and company equity to consider. If you do accept a pay cut, you may
need to adjust your budget and if the change in your earning power will be significant it might be worth
seeing a financial planner who can help you prioritize where to cut and where to keep on saving.

Reasons for accepting less pay:

When You’re Making a Career Change: One of the big reasons to take a pay cut is if you’re
switching industries. It may be worth a cut in pay to gain a new set of skills and experiences that will
broaden your skill set. It is unreasonable to expect top dollar when you have limited experience. Take a
pay cut now, develop the skills & look for a raise in the future.

When You Crave Work-Life Balance: A recent survey by the talent acquisition and career
development firm, Mom Corps, found that 45% of working adults are willing to give up some
percentage of their salary for more flexibility at work.

When The New Opportunity Is Way Better: Sometimes a new job offer is a fantastic opportunity.
For example, if you are interested in work for a specific company, or you are miserable at your current
job and have the chance to nab your dream gig.

When It All Evens Out: If you can reshuffle your priorities, needs and costs so your reduced salary
doesn’t make a significant difference in your lifestyle, then you’ve mediated much of the pay cut.

When There’s Something You Want More: Sometimes an individual may want to sacrifice their
base pay for other conditions such as
annual performance bonus, additional
vacation, salary sacrifice, paid time off
or tuition reimbursement.

When ‘Striking Out’ On Your Own:

Maybe you’ve always wanted to start
your own company, or you would like
to freelance. Either way, self-
employment always comes with some
risk, often including a short-term pay
cut while you get your new company
off the ground.

When You’ve Hit the Salary

Ceiling: If you’ve maxed out your
salary potential and your career path
is blocked (say, it’s a small company
6
and there’s no room for a promotion, or someone else already holds the job you want), then it might be
time to look for another opportunity.

3. TAKING A GAP YEAR

As a Year 11 student, you will have this choice in just over a years’
time – to take a GAP year for travel, work or study. In this time, you
may want to improve your job prospects or gain experience that's
relevant to your future study or work, or you may just want and

Builds life Loss of

experience career
momentum

Can help Acts as a May be a

waste if
clarify pressure nothing
career valve after significant is
ambtitions year 12
Risks achieved

Potentia to
l manag
Benefits e
Build Gap year Hard to get
transferabl can become back to into
Can save a gap study
e and/or
money decade routine.
specific
skills
Can leave a
Can young
contribute person in
to the debt
community

need to take a break.

Q: Outline your personal reasons for taking, or not taking, a gap year (2 marks).

Some common activities for a gap year:

Travel: To get the most out of your travel, you could spend some time working
abroad as well as doing the tourist thing. Or maybe you’d like to try student
exchange and experience life with a host family.

Work: Work placements can give you valuable skills and experience. A
combination of formal study and on-the-job training looks good on your resume.
If you want to study a degree in fine arts, you might take a gap year to do a
7
short course first and then spend some time creating your folio. If you want to make it ‘big in business’,
you could organise work experience with some successful companies. You might just want to work for a
year to put some money away to pay for study. You could talk to your boss about taking on more shifts
or transferring from part-time to full-time work. You could also just look around for a job to hang onto
for a year.

Volunteer: Volunteering is a great way to learn skills whilst contributing to

the community. There are lots of different volunteering options. You can
volunteer on projects close to home or on the other side of the world.
Picture yourself building homes in Vietnam or preserving Amazon rainforest
in Ecuador. Maybe you’d like to run after-school activities for indigenous
children in Central Australia. Or maybe you just want to volunteer at the local op-shop or soup kitchen.

Task: Group activity- Gap Year Programmes – there are a myriad of private and government
businesses offering you GAP year opportunities. Investigate the various offerings on offer and look at
their benefits and downfalls. Find a GAP programme that may suit you and your group partners.
Present to class.

Q: Explain how taking a gap year may help you when making career decisions. (3 marks)

4. UNDERGOING RE-TRAINING
If you’re thinking of changing careers out of necessity, to get out of a rut, or do something you’ve
always dreamed of, then it can be done with re-training. In other instances, you might decide you want
to expand your skill set in your current profession to branch out into a different area (e.g. a tax lawyer
might up-skill to specialise in family law).

8
 Potential Risks to
benefits manage
 Career growth  Can be expensive
 Potential for more income  Can threaten work/life balance
 Access to emerging or better opportunities  Loss of income through studying and not
 Can be a buffer against changing economic working.
conditions  The new skills might not be valued in a
While changing careers is a big life move regardless of your age, there are some smaller steps you can
take to get you where you want to be:

Study to upskill: It’s common for people switching careers in their 40s to find that they need to
retrain, or study completely new skills. In the 21st century study doesn’t necessarily mean going back
to university full-time or sitting in a classroom either. Studying online in your own time is a possibility.
RWE:

Seek advice from a learning consultant: Changing careers can be a huge decision, particularly if
you feel like you may not have the opportunity to change again in your 50s or 60s.

Get a mentor: A mentor can be a valuable resource when it comes to making contacts and securing a
job as well as developing new skills. RWE:

Involve your family: Consider how you and your family will cope with reduced income if you need to
cut back on work in order to retrain, and how your loves ones can support and motivate you throughout
your study.

Work on your transferable skills: We all have skills that would be useful in another profession. That
might be computer skills, customer service experience, design or a host of other talents. Write an
inventory of your skills and fill the gaps with study or get involved in projects at work or community
organisations. RWE:

Retrain at your employer’s expense: If it’s possible to move from career A to career B at your
existing organisation, then you might want to consider corporate training or having your employer
partially pay for study.

Be prepared to start from the bottom: Sometimes it can be challenging to humbly accept the
menial tasks required if you’re starting at the bottom of a new industry – especially if you know you
have a wealth of experience in another field. If you can adopt a flexible and enthusiastic mind-set, it
will shine through at job interviews, and you can show-off your talents even more once the role is
secured. RWE:

Make use of contacts: During your career you’ll have met many people with valuable insights,
knowledge, and connections. Find out what your old school buddies, friends, and colleagues are up to
and consider getting in contact and networking.

Plan ahead: When retraining or upgrading your skills, find a course or program that will suit your
needs. Knowing which industries are expected to witness growth now and, in the future, may help
identify the training you may want to complete.

Constantly upskill: During your career, constantly look for professional development opportunities.
Keep updated with the latest information and skills where possible to keep you ahead of the pack.

Task: Create a mind map of four potential personal risks to you when making career decisions. For
each risk provide information on what it involves, RWE’s and positives & negatives. Expand the mind
map later to include ‘entrepreneur behaviours’.

9
REMAINING EMPLOYABLE IN CONSTANTLY CHANGING
WORKPLACES, INCLUDING:

1. UNDERTAKING TRAINING AND UP-SKILLING

Training is the process of enhancing the skills and knowledge of employees for future tasks and jobs,
or to improve performance in their current roles. Most employees have some weaknesses in their
workplace skills. Sometimes employees become under-qualified due to changing technology or the
development of new methods. Training allows you to strengthen those skills & ensure that you are up
to date & more efficient & effective in your roles. By upgrading your current skill set and knowledge,
this will make you more competitive and employable.

Up-skilling is the process of improving your skills. Up-skilling may help move you beyond entry level
status in an occupation. It should enhance your skills so you can take on new tasks. Jobs are constantly
changing, and employees need to keep up with these changes, whether its knowing how to use the
latest software or the latest health and safety equipment and techniques. To achieve your career goals,
it is important to be proactive and expand your skills.

Training and up-skilling employees costs time, money, and materials. The benefits include:

 Increased job satisfaction and employee motivation.

 Increased efficiencies in processes, resulting in financial gain for a company.
 Increased capacity to adopt new technologies and methods.
 Reduced production costs and mistakes.
 Helps you to remain competitive in the job market.
 Increases your value to the company.
 Keeps you up-to date with industry demands and trends.
 Increases your ability to bargain for higher salary.
 Improves prospects of promotion.
 Reduces the chance of being made redundant.
 May lead to a career change or other opportunities.
 Demonstrates a growth mindset. You are prepared and willing to grow and change as needed; this
flexibility is very appealing to employers.
 Increases your network.

10
RWE (up-skilling): Engineers at Santos are encouraged to up-skill in the installation and maintenance of
low carbon technologies and then move into the solar energy market to support The Australian
Government’s 2023 Green Power initiative.

RWE:

Q: With reference to changing workplaces, explain the benefits of upskilling. (3 marks)

2. NETWORKING AND E-NETWORKING

E-networking, short for electronic networking, refers to the use of digital platforms, such as social
media, professional websites, and online forums, to connect and engage with individuals for
professional or career-related purposes. It involves building and maintaining relationships, sharing
information, and collaborating within virtual spaces. E-networking is a vital aspect of modern
professional life, enabling individuals to expand their professional circles, seek career opportunities,
and stay informed about industry trends. Examples of e-networking platforms include LinkedIn,
professional discussion forums, and other online communities that facilitate connections and
communication within a digital context.

Networking refers to the process of creating and cultivating professional relationships with
individuals, often for the purpose of exchanging information, resources, and support within a specific
industry or career context. Networking can take place in various settings, including formal events,
conferences, social gatherings, and online platforms. It involves building a network of contacts who can
provide insights, advice, job opportunities, and other forms of professional assistance. Effective
networking is essential for career development, job search, and staying informed about industry trends,
fostering a mutually beneficial exchange of knowledge and opportunities within a professional
community.

Watch: Video: You Tube Professional development – networking in the workplace (5:51 mins)

Developing your network:

 Includes mentors, family, friends, colleagues, and professional associations. For example, the
Australian Association of Social Workers or the Australian Federation of Air Pilots or social media
networks like LinkedIn.
 Networks provide information about new jobs and contacts and introductions.
 Put in a good word – act as referees.
 Mentors provide advice, valuable knowledge about how an industry operates, helps to promote
their mentee, provide knowledge and helps skill development in mentees.
 Networks provide moral and emotional support and can be helpful when making career
decisions by acting as a sounding board, offering advice and providing unique perspectives
about your career.
Task: Create a mind map on ‘remaining employable’.

11
Watch: ClickView - Networking (3:39 mins)
https://online.clickview.com.au/libraries/series/49480224/future-skills-of-the-workforce-building-the-
mindset-for-workplace-excellence

Watch: You Tube - Best Networking Tips: How to make a connection (3:15 mins) from Indeed.

What did you learn from this video from Indeed? Note: Indeed, Inc. is an American worldwide employment
website for job listings launched in November 2004. It is a subsidiary of Japan's Recruit Holdings. and is
headquartered in Texas & Connecticut, with additional offices around the world, including Australia.

Let’s role play similar scenarios…..

THE CONCEPT OF E-NETWORKS

E-networks are common in contemporary society. They are formed for many reasons, both personal
and professional and not always intentionally. The idea of an e-network is that an individual is
connected to people globally who they might never meet in person. They provide a much greater scope
in type of people in your network. With this comes greater opportunities, influence and perspectives
that an individual can call upon.

E-NETWORKING STRATEGIES
Formal online networking: The most prominent e-networking site is LinkedIn. However, it is more
suited for professional networking rather than entry-level jobs, but as you progress through post-
secondary study you might consider launching a LinkedIn profile. The site allows you to ‘link in’ to
organisations and industries that suit your career pathway. You can also follow key people. When using
sites such as LinkedIn you need to manage your digital footprint.

Informal online networking: Sometimes employees share job opportunities through online networks.
For example, a bar owner might post asking if anyone knows a person who can work weekends in the
bistro. A firm might post online to see if someone can recommend a person for an apprenticeship. On
the other hand, a jobseeker might ask their network if they know of any jobs available or if they can
recommend any potential contacts.

You should always construct a ‘professional’ social media profile as well as a ‘professional’ email. Keep
your personal life completely separate. Many employers search the online profiles of prospective
employees. Conversely, job seekers search for reviews of companies/employers.

Online showcasing: This method of e-networking can be quite useful for artistic, creative and craft-
based pathways such as digital media, video, film music, performance, art, design and other related
fields. You might use sites such as YouTube, Vimeo or Etsy, and other relevant forums. Or perhaps you
design websites, multimedia, apps or other similar items and make them available for free. You might
upload show-reels, videos of performances, image galleries, blogs, tutorials and so on. Having a digital
presence can enhance your reputation, showcase your skills in action and broaden your profile. But
there’s not much point uploading a video of you filling out a spreadsheet unless it’s a tutorial. But what
about a video of you demonstrating an engaging skill? If you are using social media to help broaden
your network, then you must make sure that your communication is professional and suited to your
target audience. Watch How G Flip created a successful music career-Take 5 with Zan Rowe (1:45

12

Advantages of e-networks Disadvantages/limitations of e-networks

mins) or Justin Bieber: Article/video: How Justin Bieber proved that You Tube can produce pop stars or
Wikitubia Luke Hemmings: ‘Please don’t go’ cover.

WAYS TO BUILD NETWORKS THAT WILL ENHANCE

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES, INCLUDING:
1. IDENTIFYING PEOPLE YOU FEEL COMFORTABLE TALKING TO AND
WHOSE ADVICE YOU LISTEN TO
We all need people in our corner. In the workplace, this could
be a more experienced colleague that we trust to give us good
advice, who will give us a balanced view but have our best
interests at heart. Most of us can benefit from having a
mentor or friend to teach, promote and encourage us. But
landing the right person to have in your corner isn’t always
easy.

Here are some strategies to help you find the right person1:

Ask yourself what you want in a mentor. Is it an expert who

can help with a specific workplace challenge or someone who can act as a more general sounding
board?

Check your employer’s human resources department to see if they have a mentoring program.

Look outside the office. You can find mentors outside the workplace from associations you belong to,
activities you’re involved in, neighbors, and relatives.

Do an Advanced People Search on LinkedIn.

Steer clear of the formal request. The “Will you be my mentor?” invitation can be stiff and off-
putting. Start by simply asking for advice on one action or problem.

Show them how to help you. If you truly have a pressing need, take the plunge and make a specific
request when you want someone to speak up on your behalf. Most people don’t know where to start to
help you.

Make it fun. When asking, don’t make it sound like work. Exude a sense of excitement, smile, and
laugh a little. Mentorship is an energy-boosting opportunity for both of you, and it often turns into a
friendship.

Show your gratitude. Make the relationship reciprocal by serving as a source of information and
support for your mentor in some way. It’s the proverbial two-way street.

Listen. Sometimes a mentor’s most important input is to give practical feedback. Resist the knee-jerk
urge to respond defensively.

Be a mentor. This will give you a better idea of how to work with a mentor yourself. Even if you are at
the bottom of your hierarchy at work, you might find mentees through alumni associations or non-
profits where you volunteer.

1
Modified from http://www.forbes.com/sites/kerryhannon/2011/10/31/how-to-find-a-mentor/
13
Be an ally. Allies are the people who give you backing, assistance, advice, information, protection, and
even friendship. They are your support base. Working together with allies simply helps you, and them,
achieve more.

INVESTIGATION TASK: GROUP WORK

Steve Jobs, Kylie Jenner, Mark Zuckerberg, Bill Gates, Richard Branson, Oprah Winfrey all have
something in common. They all had/have strong mentors and/or peer supports. Research their
situation and present your findings to the class.

2. INCREASING THE RANGE OF PEOPLE YOU KNOW IN A WORK ROLE

Work is a central part of most people’s lives. On top of being the most important contributor to financial
well-being, work is a place where we learn, socialise and build relationships. Good relationships and
friendships can contribute to workplace morale, effective teamwork, sharing of information and
resources. Ways to get to know people at work:

 Ask people for advice. Most people are flattered when they are asked to share their
knowledge and opinions.
 Find out who shares your interests and organise events.
 Do people favors when they ask you.
 Give genuine compliments to co-workers when they’ve done something well.
 Invite someone to lunch or host a barbecue for your co-workers.
 Welcome new people to the workplace.
 Attend workplace social functions like seasonal parties or celebration lunches.
 Join a workplace committee that will expose you to new people.
 Participate in a workplace volunteer project such as organizing your company’s fundraiser.
 Don’t Push It - genuine friendships take time to develop.
 Outside Professional Organisations are also another way to make new contacts and develop
long-lasting connections and friends with people who share your work-related experiences and
interests2.

Name three professional organisations associated with your career choice(s).

2
http://www.psychologyfoundation.org/pdf/TopOfYourGame/14.pdf

14
 3. USING OF TECHNOLOGY TO HELP EXPAND NETWORKS
The advantages of expanding your networks using social media are that you can talk about topics
you're passionate about and with people you enjoy. Talk about your shared interests, be helpful, and be
fun and motivated conversing with others. Platforms include:

Blogging improves your chances of being found by your target audience. Being helpful, displaying
your expertise, and being authentic are great ways to network, and blogging can help you do all three!
Blogging can lead to additional networking opportunities, such as being invited to speak at events.
Brainstorm Andrew Tate V Kayla Itsines V Chloe Morello.

LinkedIn is more professional and is a business-oriented social networking service. Launched in 2003,
it is mainly used for professional networking. Twitter (X) is a public forum. When someone posts on X,
they are doing so to be heard and to engage with their followers. That's an open invitation to engage
with them. Donald Trump & Elon Musk. Instagram includes Dwayne Johnston (ZOA + Powder) &
Christiano Ronaldo (football) & Selena Gomez (Rare Beauty). Podcasts includes Hamish & Andy,
Maggie Dent, Simon Sinek, MammaMia, and Abbie Chatfield.

Social media is redefining the way people connect, influence and implement change. Identify
someone who uses social media to their advantage and explain how they have done so. (4 marks)

Q: With reference to a social media platform, explain how social media can be used as a career
development tool. (3 marks)

E-Networking does not require an introduction from a primary contact on your networking list. The
person on-line is the primary contact and can also refer you to others.

E-Networking gets immediate responses. People who check their email frequently tend to respond
within 48 hours to an inquiry. Someone who is not interested in E-Networking simply won’t respond at
all.
15
Everyone on the Internet is accessible to you. The publication of their email address means that you
have an opportunity to initiate contact and build a relationship.

Managing your contacts is greatly simplified. You can use contact lists or your own electronic
address book to manage your growing circle of E-Networking contacts.

Many sites sponsor networking events. Some of the best E-Networking sites travel throughout the
country, hosting presentations and seminars for their members.

 Professional Australia: http://www.professionalsaustralia.org.au/

 LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/

Initiate
widely;
continue
selectively

Identify
yourself and Be safe
use common online
sense

E-
networking
etiquette
Create and
Adopt
manage a
"business
suitable
casual"
professional
language
digital profile
Bookmark, or
select
favourites,
early and
often

HOW SOCIAL MEDIA CAN BE USED AS A CAREER

DEVELOPMENT TOOL
A career development tool is any resource, instrument, or method designed to assist individuals in
planning, managing, and advancing their careers. These tools can take various forms, ranging from
self-assessment instruments and career planning workshops to online platforms and mentoring
programs. Career development tools aim to help individuals explore their strengths, interests, and
goals, identify potential career paths, and acquire the skills and knowledge needed for professional
growth. Examples of career development tools include career assessments, resume-building
workshops, skills training programs, networking events, and online platforms that provide job search
resources and industry insights. These tools play a crucial role in empowering individuals to make
informed career decisions, navigate career transitions, and achieve their professional aspirations.

16
Social media is a low cost (once you possess the technology) means of career development, although it
has the potential to be quite time consuming. Social media, as you have seen, has an enormous reach
in the breadth and depth of audience. Once a message, image, or video is posted, the reach is global
and there is little in terms of privacy. This means that social media is an excellent tool (if used
effectively) for an individual to achieve exposure of their skills and abilities. It is also a means of
receiving immediate and varied feedback, both positive and negative.

Social media is an excellent tool for global networking due to ease of accessing a global audience and
the networks of your viewers. Important considerations when using social media as a career
development tool include, ensuring you know how to use your chosen platform correctly, safely and
effectively to reach your desired audience and presenting yourself in the manner you desire. Social
media can be used as a platform to demonstrate your abilities, skills, achievements and as a means of
job seeking.

Evaluate the effectiveness of two social media tools on career development.

(12 marks)

17
 SKILLS
BUILDER – EVALUATE QUESTION

Q. Evaluate the usefulness of networking in career development (12 marks)

When answering the questions use the paragraphing structure template

 Start with a strong evaluative statement.

 Develop 3 - 4 distinct points ensuring there is a positive and negative. (3 exceptionally
developed points or 4 well developed points).
 1 paragraph equates to 1 fully developed topic.
 Provide real world examples.

Make a strong judgemental statement that covers the key terms in the question.
Evaluative This may be up to 4 sentences. Networking involves creating and maintaining
Statement and mutually beneficial relationships and can play a significant role in successful
contextualisatio career development.
n (what is it all
about)

Paragraph 1 Topic 1 (Positive of strategy)

A topic sentence outlines the main idea of the paragraph. Networks can provide
insightful advice about career decisions.
Topic sentence

Unpack the topic sentence. Explain in detail what this point is about. This might
be 1-2 sentences. The most significant benefit of networking as part of career
development is that a person in a professional network will have industry insight
and experience into whether job openings are likely to be useful in career
development. These networks may also be able to assist in suggesting upskilling
opportunities that would make an individual more competitive in applying for
potential job opportunities.
Developing
Sentence/s

Provide a real world example to illustrate the point you are making.

Real world
example

Relate example Link this example to the question.

to the question

18
 Paragraph 1 Topic 1 (Negative of strategy)
A topic sentence outlines the main idea of the paragraph. The effectiveness of a
network is dependent on the people who comprise it.
Topic
sentence

Unpack the topic sentence. Explain in detail what this point is about. This might be 1-2
sentences.

Developing
Sentence/s

Provide a real world example to illustrate the point you are making.

Real world
example

Link this example to the question.

Relate
example to
the
question

EVALUATIVE SENTENCE STARTERS

A key benefit is…

A severe limitation when it comes to networking is…

In comparison to …..,

Of limited usefulness…

Of secondary importance…

19
STRATEGIES THAT GIVE AN INDIVIDUAL AN
ADVANTAGE IN THE WORKPLACE, INCLUDING:
1. TAKING ADVANTAGE OF WORK OPPORTUNITIES
The workplace is technically a place of employment in a location where people perform tasks, jobs and
projects for their employer or company. Types of workplaces vary across industries and can be inside or
outside, mobile or static.

Undertaking
training

Networking &
Up skilling
e-networking

Advantag
es in the
workplac
e

Taking
Seeking
advantage of
learning
work
opportunities
opportunities

Taking
personal risks
- moving
outside your
comfort zone

Group task: For each strategy in the diagram above, answer the following;

 What does it involve – provide two examples specific to a career in which you are interested?
 How does it provide an advantage and disadvantage – use RWE’s?

Explain a strategy that assists an individual in remaining employable in a constantly changing

workplace.

(3 marks)

20
Taking advantage of opportunities in the workplace can enhance your career. Good bosses recognize
employees who do more than just the minimum. Employees showing drive and determination often end
up as managers or move into other roles offering greater respect, responsibility, opportunities and pay.

Some ways of taking advantage of work opportunities include:

 Volunteer for training/professional development and keep a professional journal. Use

a journal to track projects, accomplishments, side projects, new duties and skills, and the
volume and quality of your work. You can either use it to ask your supervisor for a promotion, or,
if that’s not an option, with your current employer, to move on to a new job.

 Volunteer to be on committees and projects. That end-of-year report everybody dreads,

and nobody wants to write. The nervous intern who needs a mentor to guide him through the
first weeks in the office. If you’re upbeat and have a can-do attitude, your supervisor is more
likely to notice you and appreciate your hard work.

 Work hard. This will send a clear message that you are driven and ready for leadership
opportunities.

 Evaluate your job duties and if appropriate, suggest a new role. With rapidly advancing
technology, a global marketplace, and the increased role of social media, employees in a
number of fields find themselves performing duties that are vastly different from their original
job descriptions.

 Find a mentor in a leadership position other than your boss. Schedule regular lunches or coffee
breaks to talk about your leadership development and how you can find more opportunities to
lead in your current role.

 Look outside of the workplace. It cannot be emphasized enough, but networking is still one
of the best ways to create opportunities. You may hear about open positions and interesting
projects.
Reference: http://courseofaction.seeklearning.com.au/how-to-change-careers-in-your-40s/

Share your volunteer stories within your ‘capabilities group”.

Knowing that SCASA prints out your volunteer work and Endorsed Programme history on your Year 12
final report next year, are there any volunteer work opportunities for you to become involved with at
RSHS or outside the school community?

21
Task: Brainstorm: Select two strategies that give an individual in the workplace an advantage
regarding work opportunities. Include advantages and disadvantages for both strategies.

Strategy:

Advantages Disadvantages/limitations

Strategy:

Advantages Disadvantages/limitations

2. UNDERTAKING TRAINING
Undertaking training provides individuals
Outline the difference between seeking learning
with an advantage in the workplace as it:
opportunities and undertaking training. (2 marks)
 Improves existing skills or broadens
skill sets leading to increased
employability.
 Motivates & engages the individual.
 Provides networking opportunities.
 Presents the individual as proactive
– looks good to the employer.

3. SEEKING LEARNING
OPPORTUNITIES
Seeking out learning opportunities will keep an individual motivated, interested and challenged. They
will be able to enhance their existing skill sets, network and increase their exposure to potential
opportunities. Learning opportunities can be both formal and informal and done for either personal or
professional reasons. Whatever skills and experiences result from these opportunities are transferable
to workplaces.

Provide examples of ‘learning opportunities’ pertinent to any chosen career(s).

22
STRATEGIES TO ASSIST IN MAKING DECISIONS IN A
WORK CONTEXT, INCLUDING:

Having strategies to assist in making decisions in a work context is

crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it provides a systematic and
structured approach, allowing individuals and organizations to evaluate
options, consider consequences, and make informed choices. Strategic
decision-making helps align actions with overall goals and objectives,
ensuring that resources are used efficiently. It also promotes consistency and coherence in decision
processes, which can enhance organizational effectiveness and contribute to long-term success.
Additionally, having decision-making strategies fosters transparency, as it allows stakeholders to
understand the rationale behind choices, leading to better communication and collaboration within the
workplace. Overall, strategic decision-making is essential for navigating complex work environments,
mitigating risks, and achieving desired outcomes.

1. CHOOSING FROM A SET OF PRE-DETERMINED OPTIONS

Numerous decisions are made daily in any workplace. Some are small & inconsequential, while some
have far reaching implications. To assist in streamlining, maintaining consistency, transparency &
acting ethically, many businesses have pre-determined options for their employees to choose from
when making certain types of decisions.

In a work context, choosing from a set of pre-determined options is a common strategy employed in
decision-making processes. This approach involves assessing and selecting from a predefined range of
alternatives based on established criteria, guidelines, or best practices. The advantage of this method
lies in its efficiency and consistency, as it streamlines decision-making by providing a structured
framework. Pre-determined options can result from industry standards, organizational policies, or
proven methodologies, ensuring that decisions align with established norms. While this approach may
limit creativity, it offers a practical and time-effective way to make decisions, particularly in situations
where certain choices have been proven effective or comply with regulatory requirements. It provides a
degree of certainty and reduces the complexity of decision-making processes in the dynamic and fast-
paced environment of the workplace.

In other instances, a formal decision-making process might be needed. By having set suppliers that an
organisation operates with, this makes purchasing equipment and supplies quicker and more efficient
as employees do not have to ‘shop around’. There might be a tender offered before committing to the
supplier or provider. Initially it might be time consuming to set up the providers an organisation will
deal with, but once these relationships are set business can operate smoothly & efficiently. By having a
list of predetermined providers, decision-making is facilitated for employees, as they know precisely
which providers are approved by their organisation. By narrowing down the options available, decision-
making is streamlined.

RWE: The WA Education Department provides a list of services and supplies, like trade, plumbing,
window repairs, electrical and booklists (Campion), and those businesses have won the tender only can

23
only be used at the school. No other companies are allowed to be used, as the Government has a pre-
determined contract with those businesses only.

Outline RWE’s of pre-determined options in a workplace.

24
 2. USING A FORMAL DECISION-MAKING PROCESS
Formal decision-making processes provide objectivity, transparency & careful consideration when
arriving at a solution. These are particularly important when organisations are faced with decisions that
have far reaching implications (this could be legally, ethically, financially). There are a variety of formal
decision-making options that organisations can use to their advantage. Five basic steps are involved:
setting the agenda, gathering information, forming opinion/determining options, making the decision,
and implementing the decision.

Outline RWE’s when formal decision-making processes occur in the workplace.

In a work context, employing a formal decision-making process is a strategic approach that involves
systematically navigating through defined stages to arrive at well-informed choices. Imagine you're
facing an important decision at work, like choosing between two job offers or deciding on a new project
strategy. To use a formal decision-making process, you can follow these steps. First, clearly identify the
decision you need to make. Let's say it's choosing between the job offers. Next, gather information
about both options – consider salary, location, job responsibilities, and other factors important to you.
Now, list all the possible options and weigh the pros and cons of each. This step helps you understand
the potential outcomes. Then, evaluate the importance of each factor based on your personal values or
the goals of your workplace. After that, make your decision by choosing the option that aligns best with
your values and goals. Finally, implement your decision and monitor the results. Using this formal
process ensures a thoughtful and systematic approach to your decision-making, helping you make
choices that are well-considered and in line with your objectives.

CONSIDERING LABOUR MARKET INFORMATION TO

IDENTIFY EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES, INCLUDING:
Labour market information (LMI) includes all quantitative or qualitative data and analysis related to
employment and the workforce. The goal of LMI is to help people make informed plans, choices, and
decisions for a variety of purposes, including business investment decision making, career planning and

25
preparation, education and training offerings, job search opportunities, hiring, and public or private
workforce investments. The following are some of the types of quantitative data.

Labour Market Information Portal (www.lmip.gov.au)

 Size and characteristics of the labour market, including the demand for and supply of labour and
the intersection,
 Factors that influence labour market and economic conditions,
 Industry and occupational characteristics of the work being done,
 Capacity and immediate results from education, training, and job placement, and
 Combination of data sets to describe the workforce by industry, occupation, or educational
attainment.
The following are some the types of qualitative data:

 Factors that influence labour market and economic conditions,

 Trends in the economy and workforce,
 Needs and expectations of industries, and
 Perceived value of education and certificate programs (existing and proposed).

Accessing labour market information is crucial for individuals seeking employment opportunities, as it
provides valuable insights into current trends, demand for specific skills, and potential job openings
within various industries. This information includes data on job market conditions, salary ranges,
required qualifications, and geographic employment trends. Job seekers can use labour market
information to identify growing sectors, understand skill requirements, and tailor their education or
training accordingly. Additionally, it helps individuals make informed decisions about career paths,
guiding them towards industries with promising employment prospects. Employers also benefit by
using labour market information to assess the availability of skilled workers, enabling them to align
their hiring strategies with the dynamic demands of the job market. Overall, labor market information is
a powerful tool for both job seekers and employers, fostering a more informed and responsive
employment landscape.

1. BUSINESS AND PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT

Business development is the creation of long-term value for an organization
from customers, markets and relationships. It is about figuring out how the
interactions of those forces combine to create opportunities for growth. This is
about the evolution/growth of a business. It might be from the foundations or
the evolution over time as a business change according to needs/trends.

Product development is the creation of products with new or different

characteristics that offer new or additional benefits to the consumer. Product
development may involve modification of an existing product or its presentation,
or formulation of an entirely new product that satisfies a newly defined
customer want or market niche.

How does business development and product development interrelate?

26
How is labour market information (LMI) useful in planning development business and product
development? What is current 2024 LMI information relevant to this subject?

2. SELF-EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Self-employment seems to be a career goal for some people. It is important to carefully research
before becoming self-employed. You need to know which industries are worthwhile, where your
strengths lie and which areas are likely to maintain or increase in demand. Equally important is
to self-reflect to ensure self-employment is right for you and to identify your strengths.

Types of jobs/careers that lend themselves to self-employment and why.

What are some advantages and disadvantages of self-employment? Include RWE’s.

Advantages Disadvantages

27
Using the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the Australian Federal Government compiles data and
publishes Labour Market Information. This data is used to publish an Employment Outlook by the
Department of Jobs and Small Business. These projections can be used by many different parties to
inform their decision making.

 LMI provides information on future growth; required skills, working conditions, which
industries/careers are growing, and which are retracting. Understanding what is happening in an
industry/career and what skills employers are looking for means that you can stay up to date with
the skills employers are looking for.
 Understanding employment trend can save you time and money by choosing a career that will have
future employment or knowing when it’s time to move on to another career.
 Understanding where the jobs are in the Australian labour market, and where they will be in the
future, can be useful if you are considering training and career options because you will choose
further education and training based on this knowledge. You won’t spend money and time on a
course that will not gain you employment.
 Knowing what jobs will be in high demand in the future and where the jobs will be, (which cities or
rural areas) means you’re making informed decisions based on knowledge not just on guess work.

Task: Visit the Labour Market Information Portal (www.lmip.gov.au) and use the information from The
Employment Outlook to November 2026 (found under Employment Projections) to answer the following
questions in relation to the Australian economy. Where are the jobs in 2026 when you leave school?
Research current employment projections, industry projections and general patterns when you log onto
the site. Investigate the Industry Employment Outlook to November 2026 report. Download the industry
projections data file. Make notes.

1. Which industries are expected to grow and why?

2. Which industries are expected to decline and why?

28
 3. Which occupations are expected to have the strongest growth and why?

4. Which occupations are projected to be negatively impacted by globalisation and why?

5. Which skill level (and type of jobs) are projected to grow and why?

6. Which regions of Australia are projected to have the greatest employment growth?

The LMI portal (2024) Summary: Over the five years to November 2026:

 Employment is projected to increase across all 19 broad industries.

 Employment is projected to increase across all 8 broad occupational groups.
 9 in 10 new jobs are projected to require post-school education.

Industries projected to grow: four services industries are projected to provide more than three-fifths of
the total projected employment growth:

 Health care and social assistance

 Accommodation and food services
29
  Professional, scientific and technical services
 Education and training

In conclusion, this follows the long-term structural shift in employment towards services industries.
Australian Jobs 2023 release: https://connect.det.wa.edu.au/redirect/cmty/13507866/announcements?
viewNotice=5259691162

SKILL BUILDER – DISCUSS QUESTION

Discuss how an individual could use labour market information to advantage in planning their career
development.

State clearly position the response will focus on. Career development planning is
assisted through a solid understanding of labour market information.
Orientation to
topic

Paragraph 1 Topic 1 (Positive)

A topic sentence outlines the main idea of the paragraph. Labour market
information provides an informed picture of future employment trends.
Topic
sentence

Unpack the topic sentence. Explain in detail what this point is about. This might be
1-2 sentences. Through having a solid understanding of predicted trends in
employment an individual can plan their career development with confidence in
employment prospects. They are able to identify areas of growth and decline as well
as tailor their professional learning and development to increase their employment
chances.

Developing
sentence/s

Real world Provide a real world example to illustrate the point you are making. According to the
example Australian Labour Market Portal, aged care is a growing industry area. An individual
who was looking to position themselves to have a higher chance of employment
would use this information to tailor their training to suit the demands created by an
aging population. This might involve qualifying in medical areas such as nursing or
physiotherapy which provide greater scope for employment as an ageing population
will see increasing demand for these types of services.

30
 Link this example to the question. By analysing labour market information an
individual is less likely to train in an area of limited employment prospects or if they
are passionate about an area that is not likely to see high demand, then they are
aware they will need to pursue experiences and training to make them stand out.
Relate
example to
the question

Paragraph 2 Topic 2 (Negative)

A topic sentence outlines the main idea of the paragraph. When planning for career
development labour market information may encourage an individual to pursue
areas of training and employment that they are not interested.
Topic
sentence

Unpack the topic sentence. Explain in detail what this point is about. This might be
1-2 sentences. An individual may choose to pursue further education to become
qualified in an area that is predicted to have high employment demand. While this
might be a sound financial decision it may result in an individual experiencing work
dissatisfaction or stagnation in their career as they are not interested, motivated or
challenged by the field they are in.

Developing
sentence/s

Provide a real world example to illustrate the point you are making. For example, an
individual may pursue a nursing degree based on labour market information
indicating increasing demand in aged care (due to an ageing population), however,
this might mean they have to forego their passion of acting.

Real world
example

Relate Link this example to the question. As a result of basing career development
example to decisions on labour market information an individual may pursue a secure career at
the question the expense of their passion. Therefore it is important to consider more than just
labour market information when making career decisions.

31
 Repeat structure as needed.

STRATEGIES TO DEAL WITH UNEXPECTED EVENTS IN

A WORKPLACE
Brainstorm unexpected events in a workplace. Debrief.

Strategies to deal with unexpected events in a workplace include:

 Attitude: Approach change with a positive attitude. A negative event can awaken ambition,
motivation, and persistence, which could lead to progress and success. A loss or failure can
make you search for something better.
 Plan and Prioritise: Have an alternative plan to prevent you from falling into a state of
helplessness, fear, and not knowing what to do next.
 Pause; and think before confronting change, getting angry or panicking. Assimilate the news
before you react. It might be easy to fix.
 Think constructively: If change is irreversible, why become angry, stressed, panicked? Think
what is next. You may need to think about how to adjust to the new situation and either fix it,
improve it, make the most of it, or move on.
 Initiative be proactive: Introduce small changes into your life to help you become
accustomed to change.
 Focus on the present: Take advantage of new opportunities that come your way. Make the
most of it, instead of thinking about what you lost, thinking about the past, or dwelling on how
bad the situation is. This approach is counterproductive and a waste of time.
 Emotional detachment: Stay calm and in control of yourself, and therefore, be in a better
position to deal with whatever is happening in your life. Attachment causes you to cling to the
familiar, and makes you fear letting go. Too much attachment allows surprises and unpleasant
events to have a greater negative effect on you.
 Inner strength: Brings stability, and control over your mind and actions, so that you can cope
with any situation.
 Meditation: Keep calm, relaxed, unperturbed by events and therefore better able to cope with
change.
 Network: Use multiple providers eg., LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook.
 Professional development: Networking and learn daily.
 Portfolio: Keep portfolio and skills up to date.
 Mentors: Ask for help.
 Values: Be honest with yourself and respect your limits.
(Sourced from Linkedin)

Watch: Video: Ted Talk Jason Clark Embracing Change https://www.youtube.com/watch?

v=vPhM8lxibSU or Will Smith and Kevin Hart’s motivational speech https://www.youtube.com/watch?
v=J5fu3nK2-ko

32
 Brainstorm strategies to deal with unexpected events in the workplace.

Discuss how unexpected events in a workplace can impact on your career development. (4 marks)

33