What Color Is Your Parachute?

About the Author

Richard Nelson Bolles (1927-2017) was a pioneering figure in the field of career development. A former Episcopal clergyman turned career counselor, Bolles is best known for his groundbreaking work, "What Color is Your Parachute?" First published in 1970, this book has since become a staple for job seekers and career changers worldwide, with millions of copies sold and annual updates to stay relevant in an ever-changing job market. Bolles's approach to career counseling was innovative and deeply personal, focusing not just on finding a job but on finding the right job that aligns with an individual's unique set of skills, interests, and values.

Bolles's impact on career counseling is undeniable. His work helped shape the way people think about careers, encouraging them to view job searching as a deeply personal journey rather than a simple transaction. Bolles believed that each person has a unique combination of talents and passions, and that the key to career satisfaction lies in finding work that aligns with these intrinsic qualities. His legacy lives on through his writings and the countless lives he has touched through his wisdom and guidance.

Main Idea

"What Color is Your Parachute?" is not just a book about finding a job; it's a comprehensive guide to finding your life's work. The central premise of the book is that job hunting is not merely about fitting into an available position, but about finding a role that fits you—your skills, passions, and values. Bolles emphasizes the importance of self-reflection in the job search process. He introduces tools like the "Flower Exercise," which helps readers identify their personal and professional preferences across seven key areas: compatibility with people, workplace conditions, skills, purpose, knowledges, money, and location. By understanding oneself more deeply, Bolles argues, one can find not just any job, but the right job.

Bolles also provides practical advice on navigating the modern job market, from creating a resume and building an online presence to acing interviews and negotiating salaries. He acknowledges the challenges that job seekers face, particularly in a competitive and technology-driven environment, but remains optimistic about the opportunities available to those who approach their job search with clarity, persistence, and a willingness to adapt. Ultimately, "What Color is Your Parachute?" is a guide to not only finding employment but also to finding meaning and fulfillment in one's work.

Table of Contents

1. The Current State of the Job Market
2. What Job Should You Try For?
3. The Flower Exercise
4. Two Approaches to Finding a Job
5. Online Presences and Resumes
6. Interviewing
7. Salary Negotiation
8. Working for Yourself
9. What If It's Not Working?
10. Hiring a Career Coach
11. Catering to the Job Market

The Current State of the Job Market

The job market has undergone significant changes, particularly in the aftermath of the 2008 recession. Bolles acknowledges that finding a job now takes longer, and that jobs themselves may not last as long as they once did. Technology has also reshaped the landscape, making it essential for job seekers to be tech-savvy. Despite these changes, Bolles reassures readers that some aspects of job hunting remain the same. He emphasizes that there are still plenty of jobs available, and that the essence of job hunting lies in finding a match between an applicant and an employer. This match is based on mutual compatibility—both the employer and the employee must find value and satisfaction in the relationship.

Bolles offers a balanced perspective on the modern job market. He recognizes the challenges but encourages job seekers to remain optimistic and proactive. He reminds readers that while the tools and strategies may have evolved, the fundamental principles of job hunting—such as the importance of networking, self-awareness, and perseverance—remain constant.

What Job Should You Try For?

Bolles advocates for a deeply personal approach to choosing a career. Rather than rushing to apply for any available job, he encourages readers to first focus on themselves and their desires. He suggests that the best way to discover what kind of job you’d like is through self-reflection. This process involves asking yourself what you genuinely want to do, what you’re passionate about, and what kind of environment you thrive in. While online assessments and career tests can provide some insight, Bolles believes that the most effective method is a structured self-reflection exercise, which he calls the "Flower Exercise."

The Flower Exercise

The Flower Exercise is one of the most distinctive and valuable tools in "What Color is Your Parachute?" It’s a comprehensive self-assessment tool that guides readers to explore seven different aspects of their professional and personal preferences. Each aspect is represented by a petal in a flower, and together, they form a holistic picture of what kind of job might be the best fit. Let's delve into each petal:

Petal #1: Compatibility With People

The first petal focuses on understanding the types of people you enjoy working with. Bolles suggests that you think about the people in your past jobs and identify the traits you liked and disliked. This reflection helps you determine the kind of colleagues and clients you would prefer to interact with in your next job.