Richard Nelson Bolles, Ten Speed Press, updated annually

No list of classics in career counseling or the job search process would be complete without including What Color Is Your Parachute? Richard Nelson Bolles has revised and updated his timeless book annually beginning in 1970. He describes it as a "practical manual for job-hunters and career changers." Bolles provides a complete guide including a systematic approach for the job hunter. In a step-by-step fashion, he goes through the job search process, including a skills and values assessment that assists the job searcher or career changer in making critical career choices. One of the things that has made this book such an invaluable resource throughout the years is its highly readable and visually creative format. While many law students and lawyers have already narrowed their career choices to the point that this book will seem too general, others who are considering which types of jobs — or alternative career paths — will be most suited to their interests and skills may find the workbook-style exercises helpful.

(Description adapted from "Classics in Career Counseling and Career Development Theory," by Jill D. Kirson, April 1999 NALP Bulletin.)