A study was conducted to gather information for the development of a quid-pro-quo agreement between the business community and Chicago high schools. The agreement would provide for the exchange of commitments to school improvement for increased hiring. On-site personal interviews were conducted with 149 local employers/companies in 27 industries. Occupational profiles of 20 occupations were developed that detailed the job tasks, qualifications required, career ladders, and wages. Information was also gathered on recruitment and training practices and anecdotal information on local businesses' relationships with the schools. Data were also used to develop estimates of 1990 employment in 11 of the 20 occupations, projecting openings due to growth and turnover. The survey highlighted three key issues significant for developing a business-education partnership: product quality, product perception, and partner perception. (Extensive appendixes include publicity materials, task analyses and survey verifications for four clerical occupations, and the task lists, both original and locally verified lists, for accounting clerk, typist/word processor, drafter, cook, automotive mechanic, and carpenter, as well as employability skills.) (YLB)