Mike Scott was a high school graduate who worked as a receptionist in the corporate offices of a large corporation. Scott had no particular plans for his career development; However, he wanted to improve his economic position. Aware of his educational limitations, he began taking accounting courses in an adult evening school program. Scott also took advantage of the corporation's job posting system to apply for vacancies that had been posted, even though on many occasions he did not meet the requirements listed for them. After being rejected several times, he became discouraged. Sonya Munoz, one of the department managers of the corporation, seeing him depressed, invited him to come to her office and talk about her problems. Scott took this opportunity to express his frustrations and disappointments. After venting, they both realized that every time he was interviewed he apologized again and again for having "only a high school education," an attitude that may have made it difficult for interviewers to select him over other candidates with greater backgrounds and skills. Munoz suggested that he try to adopt a more positive attitude during the interviews. For example, he might emphasize his efforts to improve himself by attending night school and the fact that he was a trustworthy and cooperative person who was willing to work hard to succeed in the position he was applying for. Scott followed Munoz's advice and applied for a billing clerk position for which he believed he was qualified. He gave a very energetic and positive presentation during his interview, in which he highlighted the positive qualities that he possessed. As a result of this approach he obtained the position. Although the salary of a billing clerk was not much higher than that of a receptionist, the position offered possibilities for development in the accounting area, in which the accounting courses he took would be very useful.

1. What might be some reasons why Scott did not seek or receive advice from his immediate supervisor?

2. Suggest all the ways Scott could prepare himself to advance his career.