Whether you’re a high school junior just starting the college search, a returning college student lost in a sea of majors or an older adult going back to school, choosing a future career is a daunting decision. Some people know from the time they can talk what they want to be when they grow up. Others still don’t have a clue when they graduate college. No matter where you are in life, here are some tips you can follow to prepare for any career path, or paths, you choose.
Know Yourself
To know what you would be good at and enjoy doing, you need to understand yourself. Take a personality assessment test. Many of these tests are available that match your personal traits with possible career choices. Some popular assessments are the Self-Directed Search, the Career Exploration Inventory and the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator. These self-tests can be found at most college career centers as well as career websites. Closely related to personality are personal values. Knowing your values will be very important to how well you adjust in a career.
Explore Career Fields
Many careers exist today that most people would never consider. Talk with a career counselor at your high school or college. Take advantage of the resources at your school’s career center. Try interning, volunteering or shadowing a professional in a field that interests you. Not only will you gain experience, but you will also be able to decide if you would enjoy working in that career every day.
Learn Universal Knowledge and Skills
A broad education and basic skills can help you find success in almost any career. Good writing, public speaking, critical thinking and computer skills are all valuable in today’s marketplace. Don’t just concentrate on skills needed for a specific career. A general understanding of a variety of subjects—such as history, geography and literature—is always useful. You never know when you may need to draw upon this information. A diverse knowledge base and strong skill set will ensure an easier career transition in the future.
Turning Hobbies into Careers
If you didn’t have to work or worry about money, how would you spend your free time? You might pursue hobbies and passions or find new ones. If you love decorating and redecorating your home, take some art or interior design classes. Are you great at throwing parties? Then don't be afraid to pursue an event planning career. The idea is to take what you already enjoy doing and try to incorporate those interests into a career that you can be happy with right now.
Choosing a career path is an important decision. Keep in mind, however, taking one type of job now doesn't mean you'll stay there forever. Focus on your personality, skills and interests and find a career that is a perfect match.
