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How to make a decision about careers?

I have heard a lot of different things about careers, from friends, family, and teachers, but I really have no idea how to make a decision. How do other people make this decision? When do they make this decision? #career-choice #career-path

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David H.’s Answer

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How to make a decision about your career and when to make it are both excellent questions and you have already begun to discover answers to them by questioning friends, family and teachers about their own choice of career. By questioning others you can collect an amazing amount of information about an incredible number of careers. Everyone enjoys talking about their career. Talk to your dentist, your doctor, your grocer, the postperson, store clerks, uncles and aunts, musicians, dancers, elementary school teachers. The list is endless. Do not be timid or afraid. This, of course, is fun and it's the easy part.


You then have to question yourself and this is the hard part. "What do I like to do? What interests me? How do I like to spend my time? What courses in school do I like and which ones do I avoid? What books do I enjoy reading? What sort of music do I listen to?" Make a list. If it's short that might be a good thing, you have narrowed the field a bit. If it is endless and wanders all over the place, that is also interesting, you have many choices. Do not become bewildered by the multitude of choices. Career is rarely singular anymore. Many of us have had multiple careers, so don't be afraid to change horses in the middle of the stream. The new horse might be better the old one or it might be worse, but you can be sure that it will be different, and the ride into the unknown is usually worth the risk.


College is a great place to test many different career paths. I passed through many "majors" before graduating with a degree in theater arts: Elementary Education, Sociology, History, Music, English, back to Music and then finally, Theater Arts. Each major was a different experience, and "all experience is an arch wherethrough/ Gleams that untraveled world...", and even experiences that are painful are valuable. In all your exploration you may find that a career will chose you. The Theater found me when I was 18 years old and it took me the next six to seven years to discover how to turn an abiding interest and fascination with this most curious of the arts into a career.

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Hien’s Answer

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Making a career decision is one of the most difficult decisions one has to make (no pressure). For some it would be fairly easy (my dad is a doctor, therefore I will be a doctor), and for others it will be difficult (OMG, I don't know what I like). How each of us arrives at a career decision is very different from another person.


One thing one can start is to figure out which industry/industries you think you would like to work in, whether that is in politics, entertainment, medical, and etc. Then start asking your neighbors, relatives, family members and others that work in those industries with questions like what do you like and don't like about your job.


At the same time, one also needs to do an inventory of what one likes and dislikes as well as.


Just know that the process of making a career decision will take time, and one needs to spend time and energy to arrive at a decision. Also, don't be afraid to switch your decision once you discover new information or another career you that think you would like better.

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Tiffany’s Answer

I work in event planning, but I wouldn’t say that I knew in my sophomore year in high school that I wanted to get into the event world but looking back on it now, I would say that the most important thing I learned is to educate myself on the things that I already liked. For example, I loved taking photos of my friends and family so I took a photography class to see how I can take even better photos. I always thought that making pottery was like playing with play-doh so I took a ceramics class. As my high school, college years rolled by, I realized that school was an opportunity for me to try as many things as possible and learn as much as I can. It gave me a great foundation for me to grow and see what it was in life that I wanted to do that would make me happy. Being happy in what you’re doing is the key to having a successful career.

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Conor’s Answer

One thing I will point out here to add to what has already been said is that when you make a career decision, it does not have to be permanent. In fact, most people nowadays have at least 2 or 3 careers.


Making a decision can be difficult but realize that it's almost too late to change your mind either, so it's not like you have to permanently decide what you want to do at 16, 18, 22, 30 or even 40.


People evaluate their careers constantly enough as adults that there is a whole profession of "career coaches" and "executive coaches" so you are lot alone in seeking outside advice as to what you should do careerwise.

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Na’s Answer

It the same question that I asked myself in college. My mentor told me it’s not something that one can figure out within an hour or a day. It takes time to figure out what one wants to do. It’s the experience that you encounter will help you make the choice. I recommend you search for opportunities such as internship in different roles to expose yourself and to gain experience but also to form network with people that you work with. Connection is a very important as one can learn from others experience and maybe in the future, they might come in hands of helping you with your career interest. Hope that helps!
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Ken’s Answer

Getting to know yourself and how your personality traits relate to people involved in various career opportunities is very important in your decision making process. During my many years in Human Resources and College Recruiting, I ran across too many students who had skipped this very important step and ended up in a job situation which for which they were not well suited. Selecting a career area is like buying a pair of shoes. First you have to be properly fitted for the correct size, and then you need to try on and walk in the various shoe options to determine which is fits the best and is most comfortable for you to wear. Following are some important steps which I developed during my career which have been helpful to many .

Ken recommends the following next steps:

The first step is to take an interest and aptitude test and have it interpreted by your school counselor to see if you share the personality traits necessary to enter the field. You might want to do this again upon entry into college, as the interpretation might differ slightly due to the course offering of the school. However, do not wait until entering college, as the information from the test will help to determine the courses that you take in high school. Too many students, due to poor planning, end up paying for courses in college which they could have taken for free in high school.
Next, when you have the results of the testing, talk to the person at your high school and college who tracks and works with graduates to arrange to talk to, visit, and possibly shadow people doing what you think that you might want to do, so that you can get know what they are doing and how they got there. Here are some tips: ## http://www.wikihow.com/Network ## ## https://www.themuse.com/advice/nonawkward-ways-to-start-and-end-networking-conversations ## ## https://www.themuse.com/advice/4-questions-to-ask-your-network-besides-can-you-get-me-a-job?ref=carousel-slide-1 ##
Locate and attend meetings of professional associations to which people who are doing what you think that you want to do belong, so that you can get their advice. These associations may offer or know of intern, coop, shadowing, and scholarship opportunities. These associations are the means whereby the professionals keep abreast of their career area following college and advance in their career. Here are some tips: ## https://www.careeronestop.org/BusinessCenter/Toolkit/find-professional-associations.aspx?&frd=true ## ## https://www.themuse.com/advice/9-tips-for-navigating-your-first-networking-event ##
It is very important to express your appreciation to those who help you along the way to be able to continue to receive helpful information and to create important networking contacts along the way. Here are some good tips: ## https://www.themuse.com/advice/the-informational-interview-thank-you-note-smart-people-know-to-send?ref=recently-published-2 ## ## https://www.themuse.com/advice/3-tips-for-writing-a-thank-you-note-thatll-make-you-look-like-the-best-candidate-alive?bsft_eid=7e230cba-a92f-4ec7-8ca3-2f50c8fc9c3c&bsft_pid=d08b95c2-bc8f-4eae-8618-d0826841a284&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=daily_20171020&utm_source=blueshift&utm_content=daily_20171020&bsft_clkid=edfe52ae-9e40-4d90-8e6a-e0bb76116570&bsft_uid=54658fa1-0090-41fd-b88c-20a86c513a6c&bsft_mid=214115cb-cca2-4aec-aa86-92a31d371185&bsft_pp=2 ##
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Simeon’s Answer

The starting point I usually recommend is going to the department of labor's website and seeing what the fastest growing fields are. That will give you a starting point if you're drawing a blank about what you'd like to do. I'd also recommend looking at YouTube videos where employees discuss their favorite and least favorite parts of their jobs. One of the downsides to a lot of career decision materials is that they don't usually tell you the downsides of different careers, so it might help you narrow down the options you're considering.

Other people usually try to make a career decision during college, but then actually make the decision year by year during their career. It's not a permanent decision, so it's best to get a taste of your options as soon as possible by getting internships or classes in the areas you're considering. This will let you switch your decision more easily and with less anxiety later on.
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Abigail’s Answer

I have had a bunch of different careers throughout my young (ish) life and my strategy has always been to try everything that I think sounds interesting, and cross off the things that I DON'T want to do. By doing this, you end up narrowing down the the skills you want to develop, the tasks you like to do, and the industry that motivates you.

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Rod’s Answer

Probably the best advice I got early in my life was "What can you imagine yourself doing, even if it paid NOTHING."   Take money out of the equation early on so you can focus on the type of work you want to do, then MUCH later, consider how lucrative it might be financially.  Seeking a career just on the basis of money seems to diminish long-term job satisfaction. 

I love electronics, and decided to pursue it as a career, and even a hobby.  It's  a wide enough space to do many different things throughout your career, and that's been true in my work life. 


Rod recommends the following next steps:

The old adage, "Follow your passion" is great, but you have to have a sense of reality. If you decide what you'd like to do, find others who do that, and see if you can do a "ride-along" to see if you can imagine yourself in that career path. (Not to be hostile to educators, but they might not be the best source of information about a career. Those actually doing that work are the best teachers of that subject.)
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James Constantine’s Answer

Dear CV NY,

Embarking on a business venture, particularly in marketing and management, can be a demanding yet gratifying endeavor. It's worth noting that triumph in entrepreneurship doesn't always come at the first try. Many prosperous business figures have encountered setbacks before attaining their objectives.

Always bear in mind that age should never be a barrier when it comes to chasing your entrepreneurial dreams. Numerous successful entrepreneurs launched their businesses at a tender age and later accomplished remarkable success. As a 15-year-old budding entrepreneur, time is on your side to learn, mature, and adjust as you chase your aspirations.

The path to entrepreneurial victory is often strewn with failures, obstacles, and difficulties. It's through these trials that entrepreneurs gain priceless knowledge, build resilience, and ultimately expand both personally and professionally. Failure is an inherent part of the entrepreneurial voyage, and how one reacts to these failures ultimately shapes success.

Pursuing your entrepreneurial passion can be a satisfying and rewarding journey, despite its unique challenges. There might be moments of hesitation or uncertainty along the way, but remaining faithful to your passion and vision can lead to impressive achievements and personal satisfaction.

In conclusion, as a 15-year-old budding entrepreneur with an interest in marketing and management, it's never too premature to start chasing your business dreams. Embrace the journey ahead, be ready to encounter challenges and failures along the way, and stay devoted to your objectives. Entrepreneurial success often demands perseverance, resilience, and an openness to learn from both victories and failures.

Top 3 Credible Sources Used:

Harvard Business Review: Offers insights from industry veterans and prosperous entrepreneurs on various facets of entrepreneurship.
Entrepreneur: Provides practical guidance, success narratives, and resources for budding entrepreneurs looking to establish their own businesses.
Forbes: Showcases articles and interviews with successful business leaders sharing their experiences, challenges encountered, and lessons gleaned on their entrepreneurial voyages.

GOD BLESS!
James Constantine.
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James Constantine’s Answer

Hello Career Village Office Staff!

Making a Decision About Careers

Deciding on a career can be a complex and multifaceted process that involves self-reflection, research, and sometimes trial and error. Here’s a step-by-step approach to making an informed decision about your career path:

1. Self-Assessment

The first step in making a career decision is to conduct a thorough self-assessment. This involves evaluating your interests, skills, values, and personality traits. Tools such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) or Holland Code (RIASEC) can help you understand your preferences better. Reflect on questions like:

What subjects do I enjoy?
What activities make me lose track of time?
What are my strengths and weaknesses?

2. Research Career Options

Once you have a clearer understanding of yourself, the next step is to explore various career options that align with your self-assessment results. Utilize resources such as:

Online job databases (e.g., O*NET Online)
Career exploration websites (e.g., My Next Move)
Informational interviews with professionals in fields of interest

This research will help you gather information about different careers, including job descriptions, required qualifications, salary expectations, and growth prospects.

3. Consider Educational Requirements

Different careers require varying levels of education and training. Investigate what educational background is necessary for the careers you are considering. This may involve:

Looking into degree programs
Considering vocational training or certifications
Understanding the potential return on investment for education in specific fields

4. Evaluate Job Market Trends

Understanding current job market trends is crucial for making an informed decision about your career path. Look at labor market data to identify which industries are growing or declining. Resources like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) provide valuable insights into employment projections and industry demand.

5. Gain Experience

Before committing to a specific career path, gaining practical experience can be invaluable. Consider internships, part-time jobs, volunteer opportunities, or shadowing professionals in your fields of interest. This hands-on experience will give you a clearer picture of what working in that field entails.

6. Seek Guidance

Don’t hesitate to seek advice from mentors, career counselors, or trusted individuals who can provide insights based on their experiences. They can offer guidance on navigating challenges and making informed decisions.

7. Make an Informed Decision

After gathering all relevant information and experiences, take time to weigh your options carefully before making a decision. Consider creating a pros and cons list for each option to visualize which path aligns best with your goals and values.

8. Set Goals and Create an Action Plan

Once you’ve made a decision regarding your career path, set short-term and long-term goals related to achieving that career objective. Develop an action plan outlining the steps needed to reach these goals—this could include applying for jobs, enrolling in educational programs, or networking within the industry.

9. Stay Flexible

Finally, remember that career paths are rarely linear; it’s important to remain flexible as circumstances change over time. Be open to reassessing your choices periodically as you gain more experience and insight into what truly fulfills you professionally.

In summary, making a decision about careers involves self-assessment, research into various options, understanding educational requirements and job market trends, gaining practical experience, seeking guidance from others, making an informed choice based on gathered data, setting actionable goals while remaining flexible throughout the process.

Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - A government agency that provides comprehensive data on employment statistics including job outlooks across various industries.

Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) - A widely used personality assessment tool that helps individuals understand their personality types which can influence their career choices.

O*NET Online - An online resource providing detailed descriptions of occupations along with skills required for various jobs which aids individuals in exploring potential careers based on their interests and abilities.

Probability the answer is correct: 95%

GOD BLESS!
JC.
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Morris’s Answer

Even though it took me a good 15 years post-college to pinpoint my true calling, I always circle back to the initial advice I was given: pursue what brings you joy.

This might sound simple, but it's crucial to reflect on your personal ambitions, regardless of your chosen field. For instance, I was always driven by the desire to make a positive difference in people's financial lives, irrespective of my career choice. I was unwavering in my commitment to this core value and ensured that my professional role was in harmony with it. Although this seems straightforward, it can be quite challenging when you're at the dawn of your career. However, remember that it's a journey worth undertaking for a fulfilling career.

Morris recommends the following next steps:

Find an industry or company that excites you and see what entry level positions you can get a foot in the door to.
Attend local networking events and job fairs and don't be afraid to ask people the very question you have presented here!
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Racheal’s Answer

Hello, and thank you for your question.
I would say that considering the career path that you are interested in is a work in progress, because it requires an intracognitive process, meaning it will be the inner work of you while you also go through developmental changes, blboth biologically and environmentally.
One step you can take is completing some online assessments regarding your personality traits and career related. You can google them, man6 are free. Once gaining this insight, perhaps look at careers that have those traits to relate to your personality, so you will like what you do. Just a caveat, consider your motivation. For example, if you are externally motivated, you know you want to make money, it may be a job that does not meet your personality, but you will get paid and nothing is wrong with that. Don't let anyone make you feel bad for not wanting to be poor. Of course, if you are internally motivated, then you'll consider you nontangible reasons to work said career.
It would also be great to see if you can find someone in the field of your interest so you can get a "day in the life" experience.
Lastly, be a bit open, because you my find yourself wanting to change careers. I have a friend who got her MBA, worked on capitol hill fir year, then at age 50, she pivoted to become a counselor. She has a successful private practice and she's an author. There is no stopping you if you want to change unless you solely listen to external validation. We all need both internal and external validation to thrive, however there must be balance.
Hope this helps.
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Aaron’s Answer

Identify what you love doing first.  Often I will have a direct report draft up a sheet with a list of areas that make them happy.  They don't have to be connected at first glance.  The next step is to find a 'through-line' on what you've selected.  Is there a job that encompasses all or at least many of the items from your list?  If you identify work that falls in line with what you actually like to do with your life, you will truly never work a day in your life. 

Find what you love that you can do well and make that your career.  The money will follow the passion and skill.

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海东’s Answer

First of all, we should know ourselves scientifically and systematically under the guidance of professional planners.
Again, combined with the consultant's work experience, the level of education, personality tendency, intelligence, physical condition, social resources and other factors, determine the next step or next steps of how to get professional,
Finally, solve the complex situation (such as trade-off, strategy, order, priority, urgency, etc.) of the consultant in the path of target career development.
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Alex’s Answer

You have to first identify if you are building a career or just looking for a job. I did not find my career path until after being in the industry for several years. My recommendation is to be open and flexible when you start working, be open to change, and not be negative to quitting or starting over.
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Jackie’s Answer

If there is something that you love doing, that is where I would start. Because even if it isn't something that comes natural to you, working hard at gaining that skill for something you love is a great way to find a career for yourself that you will continue to enjoy in the future.

What inspired me to go into my career field was through a traveling hobby with my family. Every year that we would travel we would make the most special memories and I wanted to continue making special memories as a career, therefore I am studying Hospitality for a career in sales / travel.

You can also see what you enjoy doing by taking a mix of different courses ranging from science, history, music, art, math, etc.
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Tiago’s Answer

Forget about tests and magical paths to have an answer. No one is more capable to find it our than yourself. For me, the best way is thinking about the careers that attract you and talk to friends and family to find someone that has experience on this. This person will be able to tell you all the pros and cons of the career, with no lies. Besides, never forget that a graduation is always a great step for your career, but if you find out later on that it's not your choice, there's always time to study a bit more and change.
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Brian’s Answer

For me it took me a while! So I been there. I would say do something you love. Like if you have something you are passionate do it! Because then you'll never work another day in your life

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