I first read this book when I had a degree in Hebrew, little work experience (most of which was clerical and which I hated) and no idea of where I wanted to go. Oddly enough, I have found myself in a situation where I now have 18 years of experience (most of which was corporate and which I hated) plus five years of disability, which is offputting to almost every interviewer. I am currently in the process of re-reading Irish's book, mostly for the analytical exercises he offers.

In summary, Irish suggests that you get a roll of shelf paper (at least that's what I'm using) and list out everything you've done, both for pay and as a volunteer. Then list out everything you loved and everything you didn't love about what you've done to see what kinds of patterns emerge. For example, when I initially used the book, I loved talking to people and I hated taking orders from people I didn't respect. Knowing this, I went to a variety of people to "interview them for information." Since I wasn't asking them for a job, rather for an opinion, many doors and subsequently several good offers came my way.

I should also mention that I recommended this book many, many times to friends and co-workers who weren't happy -- just to point them to the exercises. Somewhere along the way, I forgot my own advice and have really been struggling with conventional thinkers who see only my disability, age and experience and consider them all to be negatives. I think this book is a must-read for anyone who has been displaced as well as anyone who just isn't happy with what they're doing. Life is just too darned short to accept less than the best.

I read this book a LONG time ago when looking for a job out of college. It was, and still is, one of the best books I have ever read about job hunting. The tips and advice are very useful because instead of focusing on what you want, you learn to focus on what you are best at. Very thought-provoking and very useful. Learned back then to take what I can do and apply to what I want to do. i still use the techniques and features I learned back then. Tough to find the book now. But well worth it. (Actually, hunting for the book just further shows a trait you may enjoy and be good at...)

The best employment book I've ever read. You're not begging for a chance, you are looking for where you really want to go. Challenges you to change the usual seat of power. You are interviewing them. A useful psychological switch.