The handbook provides a realistic perspective on wages and job availability. For example, a recent graduate who insists on moving to Seattle to become an accountant should be aware that although the wages are higher, this market might be saturated, offering fewer opportunities. A job might be found faster in Portland, given the willingness to accept a slightly lower wage.
This resource is very easy to navigate. Colorful maps, basic tables, statistics and brief summaries make the information easy to find and grasp. The data can provide career clarity and valuable information about lucrative opportunities.
So rather than gauging a student’s career interests with just a survey, the new trend in college preparation should be to start with the Occupational Outlook Handbook.
“Knowledge is Power. Information is liberating. Education is the promise of progress, in every society, in every family.” – Kofi Annan6
Retrieved from:
1 U.S. Bureau Labor of Statistics, 70 years of the Occupational Outlook Handbook, in March 2021
2 U.S. Bureau Labor of Statistics, The early history of the Occupational Outlook Handbook, in March 2021
3 U.S. Bureau Labor of Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook Home, in March 2021
4 U.S. Bureau Labor of Statistics, OOH FAQs, in March 2021
5 U.S. Bureau Labor of Statistics, Announcements, in March 2021
6 Global Partnership for Education, Kofi Annan knew the importance of education, in March 2021