Multiple Potentials
Undergirding Theoretical Framework
Effective career counselling requires the concurrent analysis of two sets of data: information about the person (interests, aptitudes, potentials) and information about the world of work (a career dictionary). Data from a battery of tests, where each test is driven by a different theory, is difficult to reconcile. Similarly to help the individual’s exploration of the world of work, occupations need to be classified by the same categories that were used to analyse the individual’s interests and aptitudes.
Suppose for example career assessment shows that a person’s capabilities lie around mechanical reasoning, and another person’s talents are linked to linguistic intelligence. If counselling is to continue, we need a list of occupations that require
mechanical reasoning for person 1 and a list for linguistic careers for person 2. Without such a list the process of career guidance cannot be completed.
In other words, an effective career counselling system rests on a theoretically validated framework that allows the use of identical constructs, terminology, and methods for assessment and classification to promote both self-discovery, as well discovery of the world of work.
Based on extensive research, and reviews of scientific literature, the Jiva system of career guidance is based on the Multiple Potentials Framework which is described in greater detail on this page.
Please refer to our Resources page for links to our research and further information.
The Linguistic Potential
This potential area reflects facility with language related tasks. Some examples of Linguistic skills are:
- Fluency of language.
- Skill to use words.
- Expressive ability.
- Sensitivity to the meanings of words.
- Attractive communication.
Examples of careers related to the Linguistic area are:
- Journalists
- Lawyers
- Copywriters
- Teachers
- Writers
- Editors
The Analytical Logical Potential
These capabilities are linked the person’s abilities to reason, comprehend data and draw conclusions. Some examples of Analytical Logical skills are:
- Reasoning skills.
- Application of logic to solve problems.
- Calculations and numbers.
- Analysis and data.
- Planning and strategy
- Understand cause-effect relationships.
Examples of careers related to the Analytical Logical area are:
- Chartered Accountants.
- Scientists.
- Researchers.
- Actuaries.
- Financial Analysts.
- Bankers.
The Spatial Potential
People with this ability are those who are able to engage with design, art and craft effectively. Some examples of Spatial skills are:
- Skills for visualisation.
- Keen observation.
- Vivid imagination.
- Transforming observations and visualizations into realities.
- Working with colours.
- Creating designs.
- Manipulating 2 and 3 dimensional spaces.
Examples of careers related to the Spatial area are:
- Architects.
- Commercial Artists
- Graphic Designers.
- Film Makers.
- Cartoonists.
- All types of designers.
The Personal Potential
These are people who understand other people. Some examples of Personal skills are:
- Understanding human behaviour.
- Sensitivity to the moods and feelings of others.
- Help people with their difficulties and promote their wellbeing.
- Ability to manage groups of people.
- Inspire confidence and lead others.
- Working in teams.
- Sensitivity to own feeling and thoughts.
- Ability to manage own feelings and emotions.
Examples of careers related to the Personal area are:
- Psychologists.
- Social Workers
- Medical Doctors.
- Nurses.
- Human Resource Specialists.
- Hospitality Industry Specialists.
The Physical Mechanical Potential
These are people who are good with their own bodies and with mechanics. Some examples of Physical Mechanical skills are:
- Fluency of movement.
- Control over muscles of the body.
- Fine motor skills.
- Strength and stamina.
- Mechanical reasoning.
- Working with tools, equipment and machines.
Examples of careers related to the Physical Mechanical are:
- Protection Services.
- Professional Sportspersons.
- Branches of Engineering such as Mechanical and Civil.
- Performing Artistes.
- Technicians.
- Pilots.