College Student Book Review: What Color Is Your Parachute?

We at Career Action Now are big fans of Richard N. Bolles’ What Color Is Your Parachute? 2010: A Practical Manual for Job-Hunters and Career-Changers. Because there are so many career planning-related books out there, I appreciate getting feedback on specific ones directly from students.

The following book review of What Color Is Your Parachute? was recently written by Rich, a part-time college student who took my career planning course earlier this year. Rich, in his early 20s, had lost his full-time job. He returned to college, focused more than ever on finding a job and a career path that better suited him.

Review

I really enjoyed this life-changing book. This book challenges you to look at your life, values and spirituality. At first I had some doubts about a book that makes you take an inward look at your life. I thought the book would try to give me a quick fix and end up wasting my time.

I was wrong. This book has created a positive change in my life, and has challenged me to become a better person. This book has given me a road map of my future. I admit that life will still not be easy after reading this book, but I will have the knowledge and tools to take on life full steam ahead.

I realize that I might change my career and educational goals and will need the knowledge that this book gives. The book is actually not your typical self-help book. This book is more of a workbook. He also writes different editions because times are always changing. I did not get a chance to pick up the latest edition, but the way the book is written, I felt that I could use the knowledge and tools in any market.

I see what Bolles is trying to do, and that’s constantly adapting to changing conditions, re-inventing yourself to incorporate proven strengths with newly emerging knowledge, skills and experience. Most books about careers and changing careers are tired and boring. What Color Is Your Parachute? is different, and I enjoyed it.

The best thing about this book is it was not written like a textbook. The book is not boring at all. Bolles writes in a down-to-earth, regular-person style. He presses the reader to not give up on your job search. I remember many times I have been shot down, and now I feel those disappointments are learning experiences.

This book also tells you to try different approaches to job hunting. If one way is not working for you, then try another one. I have always looked on the internet for a job and job information, but now I try to find other ways in finding a job, like actually going in and introducing myself while picking up an application or handing in my resume.

One problem I had with this book are the illustrations. I felt that the illustrations took up too much space. Some were funny and aesthetically significant, but still it was a little much. Another problem I had with the book are the outdated website links. Some work still, but most are pay sites and broken links.

Besides these problems I really like this book, and I will tell my friends and family who are searching for a vocation in these hard times to pick it up. This book will help those sitting on the fence and is an invaluable resource for job seekers like me.

[Thanks, Rich, for sharing your review.]