Go to the Career and Employment Section of any bookstore and you'll find hundreds of titles from which to choose. You'll see books that tell you how to choose a career, how to land a job, and how to get along with your boss. Generally, you'll know what type of career and employment book you need. Now the trick is to find the best book to fill that need. Here's what you should know when choosing career and employment books.
Who Is the Author?
Check the author's biography, usually on the back of the book. Is it someone you've heard of? What are the author's credentials? The author doesn't have to be famous -- he or she just has to be qualified to give advice about careers and employment. For example, someone who writes resumes for a living can tell you how to write a resume. Someone who is the hiring manager of a company can give job search tips.Is the Book Current?
Keep in mind that the job market is forever changing. A career and employment book written ten years ago may contain advice that is no longer relevant. Currency is particularly important for books with statistical data. If a book is telling you what the outlook is for a particular occupation, it shouldn't be based on information that is several years old.Does the Book Offer Practical Advice?
Does the advice offered make sense for you? For example, a book may tell you that before you settle in on a career, a trip around the world is a must. You, however, have a family to support and time is of the essence. While the advice may sound wonderful and exciting for someone without a care in the world, it won't work for someone with real responsibilities.Is the Book a Gift?
Buying an advice-oriented book for someone else can be tricky. Make sure you aren't giving unsolicited advice. Before you get a book that tells the reader how to "get out of that dead-end job," make sure the recipient doesn't think his or her job is the best thing since sliced bread.
