7 answers
Yariel
Student
4
Questions
Asked
650 views
When is the best time to start looking into a career??
There's so many choices for me to pick from and I don't know when I should try to lock in on one.
Login to comment
7 answers
Melissa Urbin
Executive Resolution Advocate
15
Answers
Saint Clair Shores, Michigan
Updated
Melissa’s Answer
In my experience, it is never too early to begin actively exploring what career may be best for you, but you don't need to feel pressured to make a final decision right away. If you’re still in high school, you can take steps to explore future careers and figure out what interests you and what may be a good fit. You can complete a summer internship in a field that interests you, take career interest tests to discover potential career paths that you may have never considered in the past, research the academic and professional requirements related to your current dream job(s), or get a part-time job to begin to develop your professional and/or people skills. If you are choosing to attend college and haven't decided on a career path when you start, that's okay! It is normal to start college by studying a variety of subjects before you decide firmly on a major or path to a certain field.
I'm excited to put your great advice to good use!
Yariel
Willette Wiley
Occupational therapy assistant
12
Answers
Augusta, Georgia
Updated
Willette’s Answer
Hi Yariel
Your parents or guardians should actually be guiding you in the direction they see you have special gifts and talents at an early age. If you don't have that then you should start immediately thinking about what you are good at like Math, Science writing, animals, computers, Technology etc. Then look into the Occupational outlook hand book and see what careers are going to grow in the areas you are interested in the next five to ten years. This will give you a good direction and a guide to help making the right career choice.
I hope this helps.
Your parents or guardians should actually be guiding you in the direction they see you have special gifts and talents at an early age. If you don't have that then you should start immediately thinking about what you are good at like Math, Science writing, animals, computers, Technology etc. Then look into the Occupational outlook hand book and see what careers are going to grow in the areas you are interested in the next five to ten years. This will give you a good direction and a guide to help making the right career choice.
I hope this helps.
Gregory Harris
3
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Gregory’s Answer
The good news is what you want to study/work can change throughout your life so no worries if you don't fall in love with the first thing you start working on.
In terms of choosing a career, I personally would push you to find out the set of things you are interested in, so you know how competitive you need to be for your college application. If you are trying to be a lawyer, doctor, or investment banker it is helpful to know what schools those companies tend to target. I would also do a lot of research online about the professions to learn more about it. One thing that I am sure you can find is a "Day in the life" video on youtube. Those can give you some insights into the hours and day to day. If you are curious about the salary then I would also look that up online to get an idea.
In terms of choosing a career, I personally would push you to find out the set of things you are interested in, so you know how competitive you need to be for your college application. If you are trying to be a lawyer, doctor, or investment banker it is helpful to know what schools those companies tend to target. I would also do a lot of research online about the professions to learn more about it. One thing that I am sure you can find is a "Day in the life" video on youtube. Those can give you some insights into the hours and day to day. If you are curious about the salary then I would also look that up online to get an idea.
Ivana Doubek
Consultant
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Ivana’s Answer
Hi Yariel,
I agree with everyone else's advice here! I would also add that college is a GREAT time to explore. You should consider seeking internships during the summers, as these are great opportunities to learn without being fully committed to one path.
When you're in college, an intern, or starting at a new job it is the perfect opportunity to ask a lot of questions to the people who are already in the work force. In my experience, people love talking about their personal journeys, and when you're just starting your own career journey, they will be excited to offer their insight!
Make sure you ask questions that can give you insight into what makes a role or industry interesting, exciting, challenging, and then ask yourself whether you can imagine yourself doing that job!
I agree with everyone else's advice here! I would also add that college is a GREAT time to explore. You should consider seeking internships during the summers, as these are great opportunities to learn without being fully committed to one path.
When you're in college, an intern, or starting at a new job it is the perfect opportunity to ask a lot of questions to the people who are already in the work force. In my experience, people love talking about their personal journeys, and when you're just starting your own career journey, they will be excited to offer their insight!
Make sure you ask questions that can give you insight into what makes a role or industry interesting, exciting, challenging, and then ask yourself whether you can imagine yourself doing that job!
Priscilla Cardoso
Product Manager
37
Answers
Cooper City, Florida
Updated
Priscilla’s Answer
Hello Yariel,
I've been in multiple roles in my life (I'm in by 40s now). I started in IT, then HR, and now I work as Product Manager in a Financial institution (I graduated from Business Administrator, which is an amazing way to keep your options open - HR, Marketing, Finance, etc).
People change as they progress in life. Something that motivates and interest you may not be the same 20 years from now. So I would say keep your mind and your eyes open. Don't get too worried about having to choose one career and thinking that you need to stick with that. As long as you're growing (more senior positions, compensation, or personal achievement), you're good.
I've been in multiple roles in my life (I'm in by 40s now). I started in IT, then HR, and now I work as Product Manager in a Financial institution (I graduated from Business Administrator, which is an amazing way to keep your options open - HR, Marketing, Finance, etc).
People change as they progress in life. Something that motivates and interest you may not be the same 20 years from now. So I would say keep your mind and your eyes open. Don't get too worried about having to choose one career and thinking that you need to stick with that. As long as you're growing (more senior positions, compensation, or personal achievement), you're good.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6183
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Yariel,
What's the optimal time to initiate a career search?
Deciding on a career path is a pivotal choice that can profoundly shape your life. The start point for a career exploration can fluctuate based on personal situations, objectives, and inclinations. Here are several elements to ponder when deciding when to commence your journey towards potential career opportunities:
Self-Discovery: There's no such thing as too early when it comes to self-discovery and introspection about your passions, principles, abilities, and ambitions. Knowing yourself better can assist you in pinpointing career routes that resonate with your identity and your aspirations.
Academic Stage: Your educational level can dictate when you ought to begin contemplating your career. High school students might find career discovery activities helpful in making enlightened decisions about their future. College students might want to think about internships or part-time roles in their area of interest.
Career Guidance: Consulting with career advisors or mentors can be advantageous at any life stage. Career guidance services can offer invaluable perspectives, evaluations, and tools to support individuals in making educated career decisions.
Internships and Job Experience: Participating in internships, part-time work, or volunteering can provide first-hand experience in various sectors and help you gain a better understanding of different industries. This practical experience can steer your career decision-making process.
Networking: Cultivating professional connections and networking within your chosen industry can offer valuable insights into diverse career routes and opportunities. Early networking can pave the way to potential job opportunities in the future.
Career Advancement Programs: Enrolling in career advancement programs, workshops, seminars, or online courses can boost your skills, knowledge, and comprehension of different professions. These programs can assist you in exploring diverse career options and formulating a strategic plan for your future.
Lifelong Learning: Career discovery is a continuous process that may transform as you acquire more experience, skills, and knowledge. It's crucial to stay receptive and adaptable to fresh opportunities that may surface throughout your professional journey.
In summary, the optimal time to initiate a career search is as soon as possible. This can be achieved by engaging in self-discovery, seeking professional advice, obtaining relevant job experience, networking within your chosen industry, enrolling in career advancement programs, and continuously learning and adapting to new opportunities.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
Harvard Business Review: Offers expert perspectives on career advancement strategies and trends.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): Provides extensive data on diverse occupations and industries for educated career decision-making.
The Balance Careers: A trustworthy source for articles and resources on job hunting, resume crafting, interview tips, and career planning strategies.
These sources were used to guarantee the precision and dependability of the information provided regarding the optimal time to initiate a career search.
MAY GOD BLESS YOU!
JC.
What's the optimal time to initiate a career search?
Deciding on a career path is a pivotal choice that can profoundly shape your life. The start point for a career exploration can fluctuate based on personal situations, objectives, and inclinations. Here are several elements to ponder when deciding when to commence your journey towards potential career opportunities:
Self-Discovery: There's no such thing as too early when it comes to self-discovery and introspection about your passions, principles, abilities, and ambitions. Knowing yourself better can assist you in pinpointing career routes that resonate with your identity and your aspirations.
Academic Stage: Your educational level can dictate when you ought to begin contemplating your career. High school students might find career discovery activities helpful in making enlightened decisions about their future. College students might want to think about internships or part-time roles in their area of interest.
Career Guidance: Consulting with career advisors or mentors can be advantageous at any life stage. Career guidance services can offer invaluable perspectives, evaluations, and tools to support individuals in making educated career decisions.
Internships and Job Experience: Participating in internships, part-time work, or volunteering can provide first-hand experience in various sectors and help you gain a better understanding of different industries. This practical experience can steer your career decision-making process.
Networking: Cultivating professional connections and networking within your chosen industry can offer valuable insights into diverse career routes and opportunities. Early networking can pave the way to potential job opportunities in the future.
Career Advancement Programs: Enrolling in career advancement programs, workshops, seminars, or online courses can boost your skills, knowledge, and comprehension of different professions. These programs can assist you in exploring diverse career options and formulating a strategic plan for your future.
Lifelong Learning: Career discovery is a continuous process that may transform as you acquire more experience, skills, and knowledge. It's crucial to stay receptive and adaptable to fresh opportunities that may surface throughout your professional journey.
In summary, the optimal time to initiate a career search is as soon as possible. This can be achieved by engaging in self-discovery, seeking professional advice, obtaining relevant job experience, networking within your chosen industry, enrolling in career advancement programs, and continuously learning and adapting to new opportunities.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
Harvard Business Review: Offers expert perspectives on career advancement strategies and trends.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): Provides extensive data on diverse occupations and industries for educated career decision-making.
The Balance Careers: A trustworthy source for articles and resources on job hunting, resume crafting, interview tips, and career planning strategies.
These sources were used to guarantee the precision and dependability of the information provided regarding the optimal time to initiate a career search.
MAY GOD BLESS YOU!
JC.
Robert Kurisko
Coach
1
Answer
West Windsor Township, New Jersey
Updated
Robert’s Answer
Hi Yariel,
This is such a good question, thank you for asking it. Like others have suggested check with your parents, friends, and teachers to find out what they observe are your strengths. But also consider what would spark joy for you. What are things that you enjoy doing? If unknown you can also search what career areas will be in high demand and see if any of those spark something. One thing you'll also want to consider is not getting locked in on only having just one career as chances are you will have multiple careers in your lifetime whereby you will be doing different things. My advice is to be open to possibilities.
I wish you all the best and hope this helps.
This is such a good question, thank you for asking it. Like others have suggested check with your parents, friends, and teachers to find out what they observe are your strengths. But also consider what would spark joy for you. What are things that you enjoy doing? If unknown you can also search what career areas will be in high demand and see if any of those spark something. One thing you'll also want to consider is not getting locked in on only having just one career as chances are you will have multiple careers in your lifetime whereby you will be doing different things. My advice is to be open to possibilities.
I wish you all the best and hope this helps.