17 answers
humberto
Student
Imperial Beach, California
3
Questions
Asked
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what is important to know about getting a career?
high school graduate getting to know the best career #career #job #career-counseling #career-choice
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17 answers
Jaycee Silva
PeopleOps Program Manager
17
Answers
El Dorado Hills, California
Updated
Jaycee’s Answer
Hey Humberto!
First, what are your interests? I would start there. Are there any careers that are particular cool to you? Once you determine your interests, you could see how those apply to available careers out there. Or if you already have a career in mind thats good too.
Here are a few tips of things to look into:
- Is any schooling or training needed for the job? If so, where can you recieve those trainings (school, online, job experience)?
- Network! Find local business or individuals on LinkedIn to connect with and see how you can learn more
- Intern? See if you can intern!
- Create a timeline or plan on how you can meet goals to start your career
Hope this helps!
Jaycee
First, what are your interests? I would start there. Are there any careers that are particular cool to you? Once you determine your interests, you could see how those apply to available careers out there. Or if you already have a career in mind thats good too.
Here are a few tips of things to look into:
- Is any schooling or training needed for the job? If so, where can you recieve those trainings (school, online, job experience)?
- Network! Find local business or individuals on LinkedIn to connect with and see how you can learn more
- Intern? See if you can intern!
- Create a timeline or plan on how you can meet goals to start your career
Hope this helps!
Jaycee
Thaddeus Mims
Marketing Operations
4
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Thaddeus’s Answer
Hi Humberto,
What I learned from my journey is you should try to determine what are you interests/passions and then try to combine that with what skills you believe you are stronger in. Once you get an idea of that, you can begin to slowly narrowing you bucket of which careers fit into that and start seeing what skills you will need to develop in order to be successful. You can then start tailoring your schoolwork/training in that direction where you begin getting that experience. Networking is very important as well because you can meet people in the career you are pursuing and ask them to do informational interviews to understand how they got to their position. Finally, create a game plan to keep yourself focus on the goal.
P.S. Remember to stay flexible/open-minded as you will learn there are many jobs out there that you are unaware of and those can pivot you into a career you never knew you wanted.
What I learned from my journey is you should try to determine what are you interests/passions and then try to combine that with what skills you believe you are stronger in. Once you get an idea of that, you can begin to slowly narrowing you bucket of which careers fit into that and start seeing what skills you will need to develop in order to be successful. You can then start tailoring your schoolwork/training in that direction where you begin getting that experience. Networking is very important as well because you can meet people in the career you are pursuing and ask them to do informational interviews to understand how they got to their position. Finally, create a game plan to keep yourself focus on the goal.
P.S. Remember to stay flexible/open-minded as you will learn there are many jobs out there that you are unaware of and those can pivot you into a career you never knew you wanted.
Brionne Bachus
Accountant
4
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Brionne’s Answer
Hello Humberto!
I think it is very important for you to consider what most interests you. If you are having trouble narrowing down your interests, maybe consider your favorite subjects in school to get you started. Once you've done that, maybe you can research some careers related to those subjects to get you on a head start to a path that you may want to enter.
But just keep in mind, it may take some time to truly figure out what it is you would like to do, and that is perfectly okay! :)
I think it is very important for you to consider what most interests you. If you are having trouble narrowing down your interests, maybe consider your favorite subjects in school to get you started. Once you've done that, maybe you can research some careers related to those subjects to get you on a head start to a path that you may want to enter.
But just keep in mind, it may take some time to truly figure out what it is you would like to do, and that is perfectly okay! :)
Omotola Alford
Office Manager
8
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Omotola’s Answer
Hi Humberto!
I think the first thing you can ask yourself is what do you have a passion for? Will this passion make you happy in the long run. Sometimes a passion won't be narrowed down to just one choice, so I think you will want to narrow it down. By narrowing it down, you'll be able to focus on exactly what tickles your happiness. A few steps after narrowing down what you really want to do as a career, you can starting thinking about college or even a technical school. You can also intern, which will give you a better idea on what to expect once you take point in your future role.
I think the first thing you can ask yourself is what do you have a passion for? Will this passion make you happy in the long run. Sometimes a passion won't be narrowed down to just one choice, so I think you will want to narrow it down. By narrowing it down, you'll be able to focus on exactly what tickles your happiness. A few steps after narrowing down what you really want to do as a career, you can starting thinking about college or even a technical school. You can also intern, which will give you a better idea on what to expect once you take point in your future role.
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1590
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Before you decide to pursue any career Humberto, ask yourself "Can I see myself doing this all day, every day, for many years?" When you choose an occupation, make sure it's a good match for your personality, interests, aptitudes, and work-related values. Learn as much as you can about yourself by conducting a complete self-assessment. Do extensive career research about the occupation you are considering to learn about job duties, qualifications, earnings, and employment outlook. Take out a piece of paper and a pen and ask yourself some questions. Below are a few questions i think that are important for you to consider:
• What are my strengths and interests, which careers make use of those?
• What would I like to actually be doing everyday, are there jobs available in that career?
• What necessary training/schooling would I have to go through for those careers?
• How much income would I like to make?
Ignore those who say, "Pick this field because it has lots of opportunities right now," or "You will make loads of money so it doesn't matter if you hate your job," or "I like this career and therefore you will too." Although they may be well-meaning, these statements are among the many myths about career choice. They all ignore one important thing: your career choice is a personal decision that will have a significant effect on your life for many years. Oh, and by the way, the relationship between earnings and job satisfaction is minimal. Decide on a career before deciding on a job will give you a sense of direction, allowing you to focus your job search and work toward an end goal. Once you've found a career that suits you, you can begin searching for the training, schools or jobs that go along with that line of work. As much as you think you know, you don't know it all. There are people with more experience than you, and with that experience comes knowledge. To get access to it, you need experienced colleagues, in addition to your peers, in your network. Establish a relationship with a mentor who can guide you through choosing the best career for you. In addition to advising you on how to advance, a mentor can help you learn about an occupation you are considering, get the lowdown on an employer before the job interview.
Hope this is helpful
GAIN SOME WORK EXPERIENCE – Part-time jobs, paid internships, job shadowing and other workplace experiences can be a bridge between your studies and your future career.
• What are my strengths and interests, which careers make use of those?
• What would I like to actually be doing everyday, are there jobs available in that career?
• What necessary training/schooling would I have to go through for those careers?
• How much income would I like to make?
Ignore those who say, "Pick this field because it has lots of opportunities right now," or "You will make loads of money so it doesn't matter if you hate your job," or "I like this career and therefore you will too." Although they may be well-meaning, these statements are among the many myths about career choice. They all ignore one important thing: your career choice is a personal decision that will have a significant effect on your life for many years. Oh, and by the way, the relationship between earnings and job satisfaction is minimal. Decide on a career before deciding on a job will give you a sense of direction, allowing you to focus your job search and work toward an end goal. Once you've found a career that suits you, you can begin searching for the training, schools or jobs that go along with that line of work. As much as you think you know, you don't know it all. There are people with more experience than you, and with that experience comes knowledge. To get access to it, you need experienced colleagues, in addition to your peers, in your network. Establish a relationship with a mentor who can guide you through choosing the best career for you. In addition to advising you on how to advance, a mentor can help you learn about an occupation you are considering, get the lowdown on an employer before the job interview.
Hope this is helpful
Doc recommends the following next steps:
Erik Lucus
Product Manager
1
Answer
West Linn, Oregon
Updated
Erik’s Answer
Hi Humberto,
As most of the answers mention, aligning your careers with your interests should be prioritized.
I also think it's also vital to find a career path that matches your personality type. An obvious example, a shy introvert probably shouldn't aspire to be an actor. There are many personality profiling methods, and many have free tests online, so you can take a few and see if there is a common theme that stands out. Personally, I like the StrengthsFinder book and assessment, but that one costs money.
Another thing to consider is your desired lifestyle. You can get a good feel for salary expectations through sites like GlassDoor and Salary.com.
And finally, talk to people in a position you are interested in. Linkedin is an excellent resource for this, and you'll find many professionals willing to share their advice.
As most of the answers mention, aligning your careers with your interests should be prioritized.
I also think it's also vital to find a career path that matches your personality type. An obvious example, a shy introvert probably shouldn't aspire to be an actor. There are many personality profiling methods, and many have free tests online, so you can take a few and see if there is a common theme that stands out. Personally, I like the StrengthsFinder book and assessment, but that one costs money.
Another thing to consider is your desired lifestyle. You can get a good feel for salary expectations through sites like GlassDoor and Salary.com.
And finally, talk to people in a position you are interested in. Linkedin is an excellent resource for this, and you'll find many professionals willing to share their advice.
Sam Poulus
Recruiter
2
Answers
Mahwah, New Jersey
Updated
Sam’s Answer
Once you figure out what you are passionate about and what you want to do and once you are actually in that position or career path - never stop learning. Continue to learn and grow so that you become the subject matter expert in the area you are pursuing and maintain a growth mindset (advance your skills, obtain certifications, additional education).
Cheryl Frankenfield
Technical Support Engineer
3
Answers
Portland, Oregon
Updated
Cheryl’s Answer
Hi there!
For my personal career journey, being flexible was the most important thing. My parent's generation (Baby Boomers) seemed to have a job or career for 15-25 years, and for younger generations, this doesn't seem to be as true. The most important thing that I've learned after working for 20+ years, is that you can always change your career. We can have multiple careers! You spend so much time at work in your life that you want to be happy doing what you do and not dread Sunday nights. If you get into a career and realize this is happening, you can always work to change that as careers don't have to follow one single path. Follow your interests now, work hard to get there and continue to check in with yourself to make sure you're still loving what you do. And lastly, don't fear change. It's ok to be nervous about quitting and trying something new, though from my experience, it's always worked out to be the best decision. I've had several career changes and they always opens new doorways to exciting new careers journeys where I've met wonderful colleagues and have had rewarded work experiences.
Think about what motivates you to go to work/get into a career.
I will always suggest the book Designing Your Life by Bill Burnett and Dave Evans to figure out what gets you excited about a career.
For my personal career journey, being flexible was the most important thing. My parent's generation (Baby Boomers) seemed to have a job or career for 15-25 years, and for younger generations, this doesn't seem to be as true. The most important thing that I've learned after working for 20+ years, is that you can always change your career. We can have multiple careers! You spend so much time at work in your life that you want to be happy doing what you do and not dread Sunday nights. If you get into a career and realize this is happening, you can always work to change that as careers don't have to follow one single path. Follow your interests now, work hard to get there and continue to check in with yourself to make sure you're still loving what you do. And lastly, don't fear change. It's ok to be nervous about quitting and trying something new, though from my experience, it's always worked out to be the best decision. I've had several career changes and they always opens new doorways to exciting new careers journeys where I've met wonderful colleagues and have had rewarded work experiences.
Cheryl recommends the following next steps:
Rob Friesel
Lead Software Engineer
13
Answers
Essex, Vermont
Updated
Rob’s Answer
Hi there Humberto--
There are so MANY ways to approach this question, but I would recommend starting with this one:
What's the number one thing that motivates you?
A lot of people talk about looking for a career that you feel passionate about -- and that can be great if you have a lot of intrinsic motivation. On the other hand, if you're really just looking to make money... maybe don't go on passion alone.
The second thing to think about here would be: How much legwork do you want to do to get started on that career? Do you want to invest in a 4-year degree? Do you want to get a graduate degree and then launch your career? Or do you want to get started in the workplace ASAP? Is an apprenticeship the best route for you?
To use myself as an example: I went to college originally seeking a degree in English so that I could go on to be a writer. Part way through college I decided that while I still wanted to write, a degree in English wasn't for me. I changed majors to Psychology, then to Computer Science (which was interesting but HARD for me at the time), and then back to Psychology. After I graduated, I had a hard time finding work and did a couple service jobs which helped me build good customer service skills (shout-out to that Psych degree!) which helped me land a job at a tech company doing support work. Not long after that, I got promoted into the Support Manager role for them. After a few years there (and some web development side projects in the evenings), I had enough context on their business that they offered me a role as a Software Engineer -- a job I love and have been doing ever since.
The point of my story is that your story doesn't have to end! Don't be afraid to try different things along the way. You never know which one is going to be a springboard into the thing you discover that you love doing.
Decide on what motivates you (make a ranked list if you can)
Decide how much up-front work you want to do
Decide on which job/career to pursue first
There are so MANY ways to approach this question, but I would recommend starting with this one:
What's the number one thing that motivates you?
A lot of people talk about looking for a career that you feel passionate about -- and that can be great if you have a lot of intrinsic motivation. On the other hand, if you're really just looking to make money... maybe don't go on passion alone.
The second thing to think about here would be: How much legwork do you want to do to get started on that career? Do you want to invest in a 4-year degree? Do you want to get a graduate degree and then launch your career? Or do you want to get started in the workplace ASAP? Is an apprenticeship the best route for you?
To use myself as an example: I went to college originally seeking a degree in English so that I could go on to be a writer. Part way through college I decided that while I still wanted to write, a degree in English wasn't for me. I changed majors to Psychology, then to Computer Science (which was interesting but HARD for me at the time), and then back to Psychology. After I graduated, I had a hard time finding work and did a couple service jobs which helped me build good customer service skills (shout-out to that Psych degree!) which helped me land a job at a tech company doing support work. Not long after that, I got promoted into the Support Manager role for them. After a few years there (and some web development side projects in the evenings), I had enough context on their business that they offered me a role as a Software Engineer -- a job I love and have been doing ever since.
The point of my story is that your story doesn't have to end! Don't be afraid to try different things along the way. You never know which one is going to be a springboard into the thing you discover that you love doing.
Rob recommends the following next steps:
Rana Khoda, MBA, CSM
Sr. Manager Program Management
10
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Rana’s Answer
Hello Humberto
It's important to think about how you feel about what you're asked to do? Is it aligned with your values? Does it serve the purpose you have in mind?
Something to note is tat your job should do more than just paying the bills. If you're happy with the job, you'll feel accomplished and fulfilled
You will be spending at least 8 hours a day with your colleagues doing something that if you don't like, don't believe in , can impat your quality of life negatively.
Regards
Rana
It's important to think about how you feel about what you're asked to do? Is it aligned with your values? Does it serve the purpose you have in mind?
Something to note is tat your job should do more than just paying the bills. If you're happy with the job, you'll feel accomplished and fulfilled
You will be spending at least 8 hours a day with your colleagues doing something that if you don't like, don't believe in , can impat your quality of life negatively.
Regards
Rana
Tim Butler
Recruiting
9
Answers
Portland, Oregon
Updated
Tim’s Answer
Hi Humberto,
Great question! The important to know about careers is that you can have more than one career throughout your working years. After I graduated from college, I went into the insurance industry where I spent 20 years in a variety of roles. In the insurance industry, you can actually have multiple roles while working for one company. I started off in Claims, moved into Sales Support, transferred to a corporate office, moved into a regional incentives support role, before ending up in a Marketplace Compliance role. Ultimately, I had my own insurance agency and went to another company as a Field Sales Manager. I've been working in Talent Acquisition for over 10 years now, so I was able to successfully transition away from insurance and into Staffing/Recruiting and now I work in the software industry.
Finding your passion and doing something that relies on your skills and experience, and brings you enjoyment is what you should seek to do. Sometimes, it requires starting in a role that gives you a baseline of experience that can help get you exposure to an area that you ultimately want to end up in.
Become familiar with your library and take advantage of any career exploration opportunities in your community. The library has lots of resources in the form of books and online resources to help you research specific careers.
I hope that helps and I wish you well in your continued learning and career/s! :)
Great question! The important to know about careers is that you can have more than one career throughout your working years. After I graduated from college, I went into the insurance industry where I spent 20 years in a variety of roles. In the insurance industry, you can actually have multiple roles while working for one company. I started off in Claims, moved into Sales Support, transferred to a corporate office, moved into a regional incentives support role, before ending up in a Marketplace Compliance role. Ultimately, I had my own insurance agency and went to another company as a Field Sales Manager. I've been working in Talent Acquisition for over 10 years now, so I was able to successfully transition away from insurance and into Staffing/Recruiting and now I work in the software industry.
Finding your passion and doing something that relies on your skills and experience, and brings you enjoyment is what you should seek to do. Sometimes, it requires starting in a role that gives you a baseline of experience that can help get you exposure to an area that you ultimately want to end up in.
Become familiar with your library and take advantage of any career exploration opportunities in your community. The library has lots of resources in the form of books and online resources to help you research specific careers.
I hope that helps and I wish you well in your continued learning and career/s! :)
Andrew Dill
Director, Growth Marketing
5
Answers
Nashville, Tennessee
Updated
Andrew’s Answer
1) Develop a career plan - i.e. where do you want to be when you are a certain age, define what career success looks like to you, etc.
2) Careers can change - you may have more than one career
3) Network or meet with individuals that have the same job function or career interests
4) Constantly learn - take online courses
2) Careers can change - you may have more than one career
3) Network or meet with individuals that have the same job function or career interests
4) Constantly learn - take online courses
Samar Choudhary
software architect
13
Answers
Raleigh, North Carolina
Updated
Samar’s Answer
It is really important to understand what you love to do and then narrow down the relevant fields. Remember that you will likely be working on your career for the next several decades. There is a lot of joy in making a living and enjoying your work. If you are good at something, chances of success are really high as your passion will pay off.
Also, amongst all the choices you make, be practical . Pick a career that also is interesting and also allows you make a decent livelihood. Ideally, it should be a balancing act.
Also, amongst all the choices you make, be practical . Pick a career that also is interesting and also allows you make a decent livelihood. Ideally, it should be a balancing act.
Naomi Bryant
Manager, IT Service Experience
34
Answers
Westminster, Colorado
Updated
Naomi’s Answer
Think about the things that you like to do and peek your interests and see if you find a career doing those. You could also take a skills assessment or personality test online to see if something recommended resonates with you. Talk to people in your life about what they are doing for their career and see if you have interests in that.
Jiaming Chen
Solutions Consultant
9
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Jiaming’s Answer
1. know your interest, know what you really want to do for a long time without considering how much you get paid
2. know the trend, is the career traditional or new? Is talented people in high demand? Is this career growing fast in the future?
3. know what the people do, understand the daily life of people in that career, is it the same as you expected?
4. know the skills you need to have and develop, so that you are prepared to be in that career
2. know the trend, is the career traditional or new? Is talented people in high demand? Is this career growing fast in the future?
3. know what the people do, understand the daily life of people in that career, is it the same as you expected?
4. know the skills you need to have and develop, so that you are prepared to be in that career
Isabel Calabig
10
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Isabel’s Answer
Everyone on here has such great answers and advice! I'd say for myself personally, I try to not compare myself to others.
Obviously, a little bit of competition is healthy and essential! It's important to understand who is in your field, what skills are people gaining, how can you stand out, etc. However, everyone is on their own career journey! I know of a music teacher who quit his job to pursue a career in computer engineering and loves his job now. One of my friends was in the fashion industry and then learned that she loved HR.
Never feel stuck or behind. Everyone is growing and learning!
Obviously, a little bit of competition is healthy and essential! It's important to understand who is in your field, what skills are people gaining, how can you stand out, etc. However, everyone is on their own career journey! I know of a music teacher who quit his job to pursue a career in computer engineering and loves his job now. One of my friends was in the fashion industry and then learned that she loved HR.
Never feel stuck or behind. Everyone is growing and learning!
Marissa McClain
Recruiter
11
Answers
Hercules, California
Updated
Marissa’s Answer
Hi Humberto!
The best career is one that you are passionate about. Think about some things that interest you. From there, you can do a little more research into how to get into that field and learn all you can about that specific field/role. Are there specific college courses that are needed? Any specific trainings you'll need? You can also try to reach out to others in that field to network and get a better idea about those specific jobs and potentially find a great mentor to help you along your journey. If internships are available, that would be a great way for you to immerse yourself in that particular career field.
The one thing that many others have mentioned that may be the most important thing is to always continue to learn and be curious. And remember, if things don't work out it's ok. You can always change your career if things don't work out.
The best career is one that you are passionate about. Think about some things that interest you. From there, you can do a little more research into how to get into that field and learn all you can about that specific field/role. Are there specific college courses that are needed? Any specific trainings you'll need? You can also try to reach out to others in that field to network and get a better idea about those specific jobs and potentially find a great mentor to help you along your journey. If internships are available, that would be a great way for you to immerse yourself in that particular career field.
The one thing that many others have mentioned that may be the most important thing is to always continue to learn and be curious. And remember, if things don't work out it's ok. You can always change your career if things don't work out.