How to Pick a Career
One of the most important decisions a person will make in their lifetime is choosing a career. A large part of our time, for most people, is spent at work. The amount of our salary often determines how comfortable we are in our lives. Personal satisfaction in a career often enriches our lives outside of work. All of these reasons are factors that make choosing a career so critical. The following steps will show anyone how to pick a career:
1. SELF-ASSESSMENT TOOLS
There are a variety of career assessment tools available on the Internet that use personality traits, personal interests, and aptitudes to determine which careers an individual may be suited for. These quizzes can generate a list of possible careers that can be researched further. A high school guidance counselor or vocational work center may also have testing materials available. These tools are a great starting point when beginning the process of choosing a career.
2. EXAMINING WORK-RELATED VALUES
An individual should also examine their values related to work. Is financial compensation more important than personal satisfaction? Do you have the dedication that an advanced educational degree may require? What is your passion? Many advise that pursuing your passion rather than focusing on financial security is a key to happiness. These are all questions that should be seriously contemplated when beginning the path of picking a career.
3. RESEARCH
It's no secret that we are in the middle of tough economic times and a challenging job market. There are lists published frequently in magazines and on the Internet of “hot jobs.” These can be a good starting point for research. The U.S. Department of Labor publishes in-depth occupational job descriptions with statistics outlining job outlook and salary information. It can be helpful to talk with individuals working in the field you are interested in pursuing. This can give you first-hand and realistic information to help you pick a career. Consider arranging a shadowing experience that involves spending a day following an individual working on the jobs you are researching.
4. SET GOALS
Once you have followed the steps involving how to pick a career, it's essential to set goals to actually start working in the field you're interested in pursuing. There is an acronym known as SMART that's a helpful reminder of the elements of effective goal-setting. These elements include setting goals that are: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Timely. Use goals to get you moving toward the career you have chosen.
5. GET TRAINING
Some careers require a college degree or certification. There's financial aid available through many sources to help with educational expenses. Some careers offer internships or on-the-job training that can lead to entry-level positions. The Internet offers many distance training opportunities. Most careers are going to require some type of preparation training.
