Facing the difficult challenge of choosing a career can be overwhelming. With changing technology and growing international markets, there are many options to choose from. The possibilities are truly endless, so where do you start?
The career you choose should be a harmonious combination of your skills, education, personality, and interests. A self-assessment is a great way to identify a starting point for your search. Take the time to write down your likes and dislikes on a piece of paper. Think of several jobs that would use at least two of your likes and yet avoid your dislikes. Use the list you have compiled to research and evaluate these options. You can collect job descriptions, examine education and experience requirements, look at the career longevity perspective, interview others already in the position, and visit the library for additional resources. Following this process will put you in a much better position to choose which direction you would like to pursue in your career.
You can also take a formal skills assessment test. Several good ones, most of which are free, include those provided by Careerlab.com, keirsey.com, Princeton Review Career Quiz, and CareerFitter.com. You should run a combination of tests, as no one is foolproof, but they can all present opportunities that you hadn’t previously considered. Taking advantage of a professional advisor or advisor is a great idea if you can afford it. These professionals can help you examine key areas where you excel and point you in the right direction. Many times they also have their own skill assessments. If a coach or counseling structure is not an option, you can get free advice from your parents, friends, or colleagues. Be careful listening to the often biased opinions of parents; however, since your schedule tends to be geared towards money rather than what would be a good fit for you. Choosing a fulfilling career should not depend on how high a position pays, but rather on how closely it embodies your own goals and interests.
If you are young, I suggest being tempting. Join one or two temp agencies that specialize in your main fields of interest. This would allow you to try out several different positions without committing to a particular company. As a bonus, you can use the experience of the temp agency to fill out your resume. So if you decide to pursue a career in the same vein of the temporary positions you’ve held, you may have garnered some very important industry referral contacts. Don’t worry if you are already in a permanent position. You really don’t have to be stuck in a job forever. Take smart risks and explore what’s out there. Racing can get dated as can hairstyles. What fits today may not fit tomorrow and because all temp jobs can be listed under your relative agency, your resume will not reflect you as a “job gorilla.”
Choosing a career can be a tiring task. Try to look only for the options that keep your interests at the forefront. Remember, going to a job simply because it pays well will not keep you happy. You want to find a career that offers the most potential for growth, is in tune with your passions, and adequately rewards your performance.
