11 answers
Arnold
Student
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Questions
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Career tips
What should I do when I still don't know what to do for my career?
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11 answers
Nathaniel Swan
chiropractor
33
Answers
Kirkland, Washington
Updated
Nathaniel’s Answer
WOW !! I didn't know what I wanted to do until I was in my early 40s. I took jobs that were interesting and paid the bills, but I was looking for something which would inspire me. I am a doctor now and feel truly blessed for the journey I traveled to get to where I landed.
You Got this !!
You Got this !!
Loved reading this, thanks!
Arnold
JM Jackson
Consulting
12
Answers
Covington, Georgia
Updated
JM’s Answer
Hey there! I just read your question and I'd like to suggest taking an online career test to help you out. I know from personal experience that if I had followed the advice from a test I took years ago for the military, I might be retired now instead of still working! So think of these tests as a helpful starting point.
But remember, it's important to find a job that makes you truly happy, beyond just the paycheck. Don't settle for something that makes you uncomfortable or miserable. For instance, if you love being at the beach more than anything, an indoor job might not be the best fit for you. There are so many wonderful outdoor jobs that might bring you joy!
So think about the places where you feel happiest, and try to find a career that gives you that same sense of joy. Here are some online tests for you to explore:
1. BrainManager.io has a free test: https://brainmanager.io/tests/career
2. JobTest.org: https://www.jobtest.org/job-test#hello!-is-this-your-first-time-taking-a-career-test?
3. Truity: https://www.truity.com/
Also, check out this interesting article for more information: https://scholarshipinstitute.org/best-career-aptitude-tests-for-you/#:~:text=Top%208%20Online%20Career%20Aptitude%20Tests%201%20JobTest.org,CareerFitter%207%20Career%20Explorer%208%20The%20Princeton%20Review
I truly hope this helps you on your journey to finding a fulfilling career. 😊
But remember, it's important to find a job that makes you truly happy, beyond just the paycheck. Don't settle for something that makes you uncomfortable or miserable. For instance, if you love being at the beach more than anything, an indoor job might not be the best fit for you. There are so many wonderful outdoor jobs that might bring you joy!
So think about the places where you feel happiest, and try to find a career that gives you that same sense of joy. Here are some online tests for you to explore:
1. BrainManager.io has a free test: https://brainmanager.io/tests/career
2. JobTest.org: https://www.jobtest.org/job-test#hello!-is-this-your-first-time-taking-a-career-test?
3. Truity: https://www.truity.com/
Also, check out this interesting article for more information: https://scholarshipinstitute.org/best-career-aptitude-tests-for-you/#:~:text=Top%208%20Online%20Career%20Aptitude%20Tests%201%20JobTest.org,CareerFitter%207%20Career%20Explorer%208%20The%20Princeton%20Review
I truly hope this helps you on your journey to finding a fulfilling career. 😊
Chrysa Moschou
Project Leader
1
Answer
Odense, Denmark
Updated
Chrysa’s Answer
First and foremost, recognize that you're not alone in this situation – many people find themselves in similar circumstances. It's essential to remember that the career path you choose now doesn't have to be set in stone for the rest of your life.
For instance, throughout my own journey, I've held various positions, including content creation, event organization, and administrative work. Although these roles seemed unrelated, they eventually led me to my current position as a project manager. Each position provided me with invaluable skills and experiences that have contributed to my growth.
Don't hesitate to explore different fields, perhaps through internships or by connecting with professionals on Linkedin to gain insights into their jobs. Being open to new opportunities will increase your chances of finding a fulfilling path that aligns with your passions.
Additionally, reflect on what's essential to you in a work environment. For example, you may like working with challenging tasks or in roles where your work makes a significant impact. Identifying these preferences can help guide your career decisions, both now and in the future.
Remember, you've got this! Embrace the journey and keep an open mind. With persistence and determination, you'll find the ideal path that suits you. Best of luck! 😊
For instance, throughout my own journey, I've held various positions, including content creation, event organization, and administrative work. Although these roles seemed unrelated, they eventually led me to my current position as a project manager. Each position provided me with invaluable skills and experiences that have contributed to my growth.
Don't hesitate to explore different fields, perhaps through internships or by connecting with professionals on Linkedin to gain insights into their jobs. Being open to new opportunities will increase your chances of finding a fulfilling path that aligns with your passions.
Additionally, reflect on what's essential to you in a work environment. For example, you may like working with challenging tasks or in roles where your work makes a significant impact. Identifying these preferences can help guide your career decisions, both now and in the future.
Remember, you've got this! Embrace the journey and keep an open mind. With persistence and determination, you'll find the ideal path that suits you. Best of luck! 😊
I appreciate this, thank you for the advice.
Arnold
Mrinalini Singh
Project Manager
125
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Mrinalini’s Answer
Hey Arnold! It's fantastic to see you seeking advice and guidance for your future. Just like our fellow mentors have mentioned, it's essential to explore your passions and interests to find your perfect path. Maybe it's Engineering, Medical, Arts, or Design - there's a world of possibilities out there!
Take a look around at your family members, friends, and their families to observe and ask about their careers. Engaging with them will give you invaluable insights into real-life experiences, which can help you make an informed decision. Remember, you have the power to shape your future, and you're definitely on the right track seeking advice. Keep up the fantastic work, and good luck! You've got this!
Take a look around at your family members, friends, and their families to observe and ask about their careers. Engaging with them will give you invaluable insights into real-life experiences, which can help you make an informed decision. Remember, you have the power to shape your future, and you're definitely on the right track seeking advice. Keep up the fantastic work, and good luck! You've got this!
Lindsay Jankel
RN
1
Answer
Saint Thomas, PA
Updated
Lindsay’s Answer
Most people have little knowledge of what exactly they envision themselves doing for the rest of your life. My advice is to try everything you think you may enjoy. Contact professionals in that field. Many are very receptive and offer great insight into what you would do daily. I personally think getting an Associate degree at your local community college, living at home if possible, then transferring will save you tons of money. At CC you can take any class that sounds interesting whether it helps your major or not. Literally…take every class until one grabs your interest. Work is much less grueling when doing something you enjoy. Good luck!
Abdelrahman Ismail
Landscape Designer
2
Answers
Cairo, Cairo Governorate, Egypt
Updated
Abdelrahman’s Answer
First, identify your priority and target position. Then, create a step-by-step plan outlining the necessary skills and set a timeline to achieve them.
you need to start as a trainer or volunteer to harvest fundamental professional knowledge. Good luck!
Abdelrahman recommends the following next steps:
Jenna Kashcheeva SHRM-CP
Psychologist/HRBP
10
Answers
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Updated
Jenna Kashcheeva’s Answer
Hey Arnold, try to create a list of the following stuff:
- What are you passionate about
- What kind of roles look attractive to you
- What's the minimum comfortable level of income that you want to have
- What would you like to do on the job
- What you absolutely wouldn't tolerate at work
- What is needed to get this job, e.g., what kind of colleges and grades you will need to have, etc.
When you have those lists, you will be able to eliminate most of the things and find a couple of areas/roles that might be suitable for you. Do some research and find people who hold these roles or communities that discuss them and ask questions. This way, you might narrow down your search even more.
You also can try to volunteer or look for internships in your area of interest or what is on the market to give it a try.
These websites might be helpful to you:
https://ikigaitest.com/en-personality-test/ - I found this one really useful.
https://agilities.org/
Or look for other free websites to take tests and explore other opportunities.
Best of luck!
- What are you passionate about
- What kind of roles look attractive to you
- What's the minimum comfortable level of income that you want to have
- What would you like to do on the job
- What you absolutely wouldn't tolerate at work
- What is needed to get this job, e.g., what kind of colleges and grades you will need to have, etc.
When you have those lists, you will be able to eliminate most of the things and find a couple of areas/roles that might be suitable for you. Do some research and find people who hold these roles or communities that discuss them and ask questions. This way, you might narrow down your search even more.
You also can try to volunteer or look for internships in your area of interest or what is on the market to give it a try.
These websites might be helpful to you:
https://ikigaitest.com/en-personality-test/ - I found this one really useful.
https://agilities.org/
Or look for other free websites to take tests and explore other opportunities.
Best of luck!
I appreciate you taking the time to answer this.
Arnold
Tim Jones
Strategy, Learning & Organizational Development
3
Answers
St. Louis, MO
Updated
Tim’s Answer
Hello Arnold,
One of the main challenges can be feeling like you need to discover "the perfect career" and stick to a single path. A career is all about delving into your abilities and passions, enabling you to continuously learn about yourself and grow simultaneously. My own career path shifted after encountering an amazing mentor who showed me that it's more about the talents I possess and my eagerness to enhance them throughout my career. If you concentrate on pinpointing your skills first, you can then identify which career opportunities might align with them. This proves to be a valuable exercise in discovering paths you might not have thought of and gives you the flexibility to adapt as your interests change over time.
Wishing you the best!
Tim
Identify skills you already have
See what roles might use these skills
Discover how these skills are elevated
Look at the career progression for persons with these skills
One of the main challenges can be feeling like you need to discover "the perfect career" and stick to a single path. A career is all about delving into your abilities and passions, enabling you to continuously learn about yourself and grow simultaneously. My own career path shifted after encountering an amazing mentor who showed me that it's more about the talents I possess and my eagerness to enhance them throughout my career. If you concentrate on pinpointing your skills first, you can then identify which career opportunities might align with them. This proves to be a valuable exercise in discovering paths you might not have thought of and gives you the flexibility to adapt as your interests change over time.
Wishing you the best!
Tim
Tim recommends the following next steps:
Leizl Urbano
5
Answers
Lingayen, Ilocos Region, Philippines
Updated
Leizl’s Answer
Hi! It's not just you who feels that way, many people go through the same uncertainties as well. If you still don't know what to do, take time to understand first your interests, values, strengths, and weaknesses. Think of what truly motivates and excites you. Consider the activities you enjoy and those that align with your passions. Remember, finding the right career often takes time and exploration. Be patient, stay open and trust that with persistence and self-discovery, you'll eventually find a path that aligns with your interests and values. Goodluck!
Shahneela Vengus
HR Manager
30
Answers
Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan
Updated
Shahneela’s Answer
Examine yourself.
Reflect on your motivations.
Think about your long-term goals.
Take different self-assessment tests.
Explore sectors.
Explore industries.
Seek out professional resources.
Talk To Senior Professionals.
Attend Networking Events.
Explore career options on your list.
Reflect on your motivations.
Think about your long-term goals.
Take different self-assessment tests.
Explore sectors.
Explore industries.
Seek out professional resources.
Talk To Senior Professionals.
Attend Networking Events.
Explore career options on your list.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6342
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hi Arnold!
Navigating Career Uncertainty: A Step-by-Step Guide
Feeling unsure about your career path? Don't worry, it's completely normal. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you make sense of your career uncertainty and make well-informed decisions about your future.
1. Start with Self-Assessment
Kickstart your journey with a self-assessment to identify your interests, values, skills, and personality traits. Tools like the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) or the Strong Interest Inventory can help you figure out which careers might be a good fit for you. Consider questions such as:
- What activities or subjects do I enjoy?
- What are my strengths and weaknesses?
- What values matter to me in a job (e.g., work-life balance, helping others, financial stability)?
2. Explore Potential Careers
With a better understanding of yourself, start exploring different career options that match your interests and skills. You can use:
- Online career databases (like O*NET Online)
- Professional organizations related to your fields of interest
- Informational interviews with professionals in those fields
This research will give you insights into job responsibilities, required qualifications, salary expectations, and growth opportunities.
3. Get Hands-On Experience
Try gaining practical experience through internships, volunteer work, or part-time jobs in areas you're interested in. This will give you a real-world perspective on what a particular job involves and whether it meets your expectations.
4. Build Your Network
Networking is key to exploring career options. Attend industry events, join professional associations, or connect with alumni from your school who work in your fields of interest. This can lead to mentorship opportunities and provide insider knowledge about specific careers.
5. Seek Expert Advice
Don't shy away from seeking advice from career counselors or mentors. They can offer personalized advice, help you navigate your options, and might even provide resources you hadn't thought of.
6. Set Your Goals
Once you've gathered information and experiences, set short-term and long-term career goals based on what you've learned about yourself and potential careers. Remember to make these goals specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).
7. Keep an Open Mind
Lastly, keep an open mind throughout this process. Career paths are rarely straight; many people change careers multiple times throughout their lives as they grow and evolve both personally and professionally.
By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared to make informed decisions about your career path.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used:
1. O*NET Online: A comprehensive database offering detailed descriptions of various occupations.
2. Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI): A popular personality assessment tool that can guide you towards suitable career choices.
3. National Career Development Association (NCDA): Provides resources for career development professionals and individuals seeking guidance on career exploration.
Confidence in the answer: 95%
Take care!
JC.
Navigating Career Uncertainty: A Step-by-Step Guide
Feeling unsure about your career path? Don't worry, it's completely normal. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you make sense of your career uncertainty and make well-informed decisions about your future.
1. Start with Self-Assessment
Kickstart your journey with a self-assessment to identify your interests, values, skills, and personality traits. Tools like the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) or the Strong Interest Inventory can help you figure out which careers might be a good fit for you. Consider questions such as:
- What activities or subjects do I enjoy?
- What are my strengths and weaknesses?
- What values matter to me in a job (e.g., work-life balance, helping others, financial stability)?
2. Explore Potential Careers
With a better understanding of yourself, start exploring different career options that match your interests and skills. You can use:
- Online career databases (like O*NET Online)
- Professional organizations related to your fields of interest
- Informational interviews with professionals in those fields
This research will give you insights into job responsibilities, required qualifications, salary expectations, and growth opportunities.
3. Get Hands-On Experience
Try gaining practical experience through internships, volunteer work, or part-time jobs in areas you're interested in. This will give you a real-world perspective on what a particular job involves and whether it meets your expectations.
4. Build Your Network
Networking is key to exploring career options. Attend industry events, join professional associations, or connect with alumni from your school who work in your fields of interest. This can lead to mentorship opportunities and provide insider knowledge about specific careers.
5. Seek Expert Advice
Don't shy away from seeking advice from career counselors or mentors. They can offer personalized advice, help you navigate your options, and might even provide resources you hadn't thought of.
6. Set Your Goals
Once you've gathered information and experiences, set short-term and long-term career goals based on what you've learned about yourself and potential careers. Remember to make these goals specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).
7. Keep an Open Mind
Lastly, keep an open mind throughout this process. Career paths are rarely straight; many people change careers multiple times throughout their lives as they grow and evolve both personally and professionally.
By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared to make informed decisions about your career path.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used:
1. O*NET Online: A comprehensive database offering detailed descriptions of various occupations.
2. Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI): A popular personality assessment tool that can guide you towards suitable career choices.
3. National Career Development Association (NCDA): Provides resources for career development professionals and individuals seeking guidance on career exploration.
Confidence in the answer: 95%
Take care!
JC.