Taking a self-assessment can be a useful way to gather and organize information about your values and preferences in order to make informed decisions about your career. These resources can’t predict your ideal career path, but they can help you identify options and overcome feeling stuck or unsure about your career.
Overview
Self-guided tools
Your values and interests are 2 of the most significant predictors of career satisfaction. If you are interested in your work and able to live out your values, you are more likely to feel confident about your career choices. Clarifying your interests and values to identify career options that could be a good fit for you.
- Download the values inventory worksheet (pdf) to help you use this approach in your career decision-making.
- Use the skills inventory worksheet (pdf) to identify how your skills compare to the skills employers are looking for.
- Complete this free 30-minute quiz, to gain insights into your personality and career preferences.
Paid online assessment tools
There are a wide variety of online tools out there that you can access for a fee. While it is not necessary for you to pay to identify your interests or abilities, some people find it to be worthwhile to use them.
None of the tools you find online will be perfect for everyone, but we suggest:
- SkillScan
Complete a short quiz and receive a concrete and practical profile of your skills and preferences matched to a list of relevant career options. - CliftonStrengths
After completing a timed quiz, you will receive a report that outlines your top 5 strengths. Each strength can give you ideas for your personal and professional goals. Knowing your top 5 strengths helps you understand and articulate the value you offer to potential employers. Use your UBC student email address to get an Educator Price on this well-regarded self-discovery tool.
Career advice
UBC staff at the UBC Career Centre can help you:
- Reflect on your self-assessment results
- Apply your sense of self to your career decision-making
- Create action plans to help you take steps towards your goals
Before scheduling an appointment, complete any of the assessments mentioned above. Make sure you bring your results to the appointment. When you are ready, book an appointment through CareersOnline.
Additional resources
Books
- Designing Your Life by Bill Burnette and Dave Evans
- You Majored in What? by Katharine Brooks
- Do What You Are by Tieger and Barron-Tieger
- Episodic Career by Farai Chideya
- What Color is Your Parachute? by Richard Bolles
- The 2 Hour Job Search by Steve Dalton
Videos
- TEDx Standford, Bill Burnette: "Designing Your Life"
- TED Talk Playlist: Talks to help you find the right job
- Find Your Why by Simon Sinek
Activity
Career events and workshops
Whether you're looking to improve your job applications or find resources to help you develop your career, UBC has events and workshops to support you.
If you have questions
Contact the UBC Career Centre for any questions regarding the Launch Your Career in Canada event or career-related information.
