9 answers
Bianca
Student
Lind, WA
1
Question
Asked
655 views
How to know what career path you want to take?
How to start your career? What to do once you know what career you want? How to make a plan for the career you want??????
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9 answers
Rebecca Tang
Banking
1821
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. A lot of students may have similar question. The most important is to find out what career you have interest.
Below are my suggestions :
1. Think about what you have interest, e.g. your hobbies, favorite subjects, etc. and identify the related careers
e.g. If you have interest in music, would you like to be a musician, singer, music composer, musical actor, music producer, etc.
If you are interested in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc.
2. Find out more on the these careers and identify what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, parents, school career counsellor,. etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 career you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in the college
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
Below are my suggestions :
1. Think about what you have interest, e.g. your hobbies, favorite subjects, etc. and identify the related careers
e.g. If you have interest in music, would you like to be a musician, singer, music composer, musical actor, music producer, etc.
If you are interested in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc.
2. Find out more on the these careers and identify what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, parents, school career counsellor,. etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 career you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in the college
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
Anna Duggins
Software Sales
5
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Anna’s Answer
Great answers above! You may also want to see if your college of choice has a career office. These will usually have career coaches for free who can help you digest the results from your career tests as mentioned above!
Dino Ubalde
Educator/Psychologist/Life Coach
204
Answers
Tracy, California
Updated
Dino’s Answer
Hello Bianca, how's everything going? I'm really glad you reached out to us and I truly value your thoughtful inquiries. It's clear that you're a highly organized individual. These types of questions are typically asked by students who are deeply committed to their future, which is a wonderful trait to have.
I'd be more than happy to address your questions one by one. Your career journey begins when you make a well-informed decision about which college program to pursue from your first year all the way through to earning your degree. This shows that from the outset, you're truly focused on choosing the right program and envisioning the person you aspire to become.
However, it's important to note that career development starts at a young age, often during high school. During this time, you'll develop interests based on your hobbies, favorite subjects, likes, skills, abilities, aptitude, and personality traits. These are all vital factors to consider when choosing your future career.
Secondly, throughout your college years, your chosen program will equip you to become the person you want to be. It will refine your skills, knowledge, abilities, and even personality traits that are essential in your chosen field. Additionally, the practical experience you gain from your program will expose you to the real world. The theories you learn in school will become even more significant when applied in a real-world context.
Thirdly, during your college years, it's crucial to excel academically to enhance your future job prospects. Your program will foster your overall growth, interpersonal skills, and help you identify the career path you wish to pursue and explore after college. These elements are the very core of your career development.
Remember to relish every moment of your studies. When you find joy in your chosen college program, it's likely that you'll also find happiness in your chosen career. Good luck! I sincerely hope that you find fulfillment in your chosen career.
I'd be more than happy to address your questions one by one. Your career journey begins when you make a well-informed decision about which college program to pursue from your first year all the way through to earning your degree. This shows that from the outset, you're truly focused on choosing the right program and envisioning the person you aspire to become.
However, it's important to note that career development starts at a young age, often during high school. During this time, you'll develop interests based on your hobbies, favorite subjects, likes, skills, abilities, aptitude, and personality traits. These are all vital factors to consider when choosing your future career.
Secondly, throughout your college years, your chosen program will equip you to become the person you want to be. It will refine your skills, knowledge, abilities, and even personality traits that are essential in your chosen field. Additionally, the practical experience you gain from your program will expose you to the real world. The theories you learn in school will become even more significant when applied in a real-world context.
Thirdly, during your college years, it's crucial to excel academically to enhance your future job prospects. Your program will foster your overall growth, interpersonal skills, and help you identify the career path you wish to pursue and explore after college. These elements are the very core of your career development.
Remember to relish every moment of your studies. When you find joy in your chosen college program, it's likely that you'll also find happiness in your chosen career. Good luck! I sincerely hope that you find fulfillment in your chosen career.
Atul Bhankharia
Sales
476
Answers
Mount Laurel, New Jersey
Updated
Atul’s Answer
What sparks joy in your life? It could be anything, even a video game! If that's the case, why not explore a Computer Science curriculum?
Now, think about the subjects that come naturally to you. These could give you a hint about your future career path.
For example, I had a knack for Math and strong analytical skills, which led me to a successful career in the software industry 40 years ago. I've lived the American dream and I wouldn't change a thing.
Here are a few more examples: if you have a way with words, consider a career in journalism, technical writing, or teaching.
If Chemistry is your cup of tea, you might enjoy a career in medicine or chemical engineering.
You see where I'm going with this. Even your school counselor or your favorite teacher can provide valuable guidance. Listen to their advice, but remember, the final decision is yours. That way, you'll have no one to blame but yourself for your choices.
Choose a career that you're excited to wake up to every day. I did it for four decades, and it was worth it!
Now, think about the subjects that come naturally to you. These could give you a hint about your future career path.
For example, I had a knack for Math and strong analytical skills, which led me to a successful career in the software industry 40 years ago. I've lived the American dream and I wouldn't change a thing.
Here are a few more examples: if you have a way with words, consider a career in journalism, technical writing, or teaching.
If Chemistry is your cup of tea, you might enjoy a career in medicine or chemical engineering.
You see where I'm going with this. Even your school counselor or your favorite teacher can provide valuable guidance. Listen to their advice, but remember, the final decision is yours. That way, you'll have no one to blame but yourself for your choices.
Choose a career that you're excited to wake up to every day. I did it for four decades, and it was worth it!
Marshall Main
Director, Manager, Videographer
75
Answers
Raleigh, North Carolina
Updated
Marshall’s Answer
To add to the good advice of: Make a list of your passions, things that interest you, hobbies you have, things you enjoy doing, things you are curious about and talk to people that do those things if you can.
There are also lots of free "career assessment" tools out there. You basically take a "test" that ask you questions, will analyze your personality and skills and suggest career paths that you may be a good fit for. This can be helpful since you may not even know if that is something that exists in the world.
https://www.google.com/search?q=career+assessment+test&sxsrf=APwXEdeqw-gaF90LZ3ZtNs-qufV-NBYSGQ%3A1687959663386&ei=bzicZMaJF-SqptQP0LSo2A4&oq=carrear+assesment&gs_lcp=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-SAQQ2LjExmAEAoAEBwAEByAEI2gEGCAEQARgU&sclient=gws-wiz-serp
There are also lots of free "career assessment" tools out there. You basically take a "test" that ask you questions, will analyze your personality and skills and suggest career paths that you may be a good fit for. This can be helpful since you may not even know if that is something that exists in the world.
https://www.google.com/search?q=career+assessment+test&sxsrf=APwXEdeqw-gaF90LZ3ZtNs-qufV-NBYSGQ%3A1687959663386&ei=bzicZMaJF-SqptQP0LSo2A4&oq=carrear+assesment&gs_lcp=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-SAQQ2LjExmAEAoAEBwAEByAEI2gEGCAEQARgU&sclient=gws-wiz-serp
Adrian Connell
EMEA Demand Manager
5
Answers
Wokingham, England, United Kingdom
Updated
Adrian’s Answer
Hello Rebecca,
Start by engaging in some self-reflection: Identify the activities that spark joy in you, that invigorate you and make you feel fulfilled. If you're uncertain about what these might be, don't hesitate to reach out to your friends and family for their observations about what brings you joy.
Equally crucial is recognizing what you genuinely dislike doing, enabling you to eliminate those options from your consideration.
Once you've identified your passions and dislikes, you can begin exploring careers that align with your interests. This approach will lead you towards a career that not only motivates you but also brings you joy. Utilize resources like local career libraries at schools or universities, or even simple Google searches. Attend career fairs, ask acquaintances about their jobs, and maintain a sense of curiosity about the various professions out there.
As you start to hone in on potential careers, consider the kind of lifestyle you aspire to. Will the career you're considering provide the lifestyle you desire? Remember, work should support your life, not the other way around.
Lastly, don't feel limited by existing careers. The professional landscape is constantly evolving, with some roles disappearing and new ones emerging. Therefore, cultivating flexibility and adaptability in your skills and mindset will position you well for future opportunities.
Good Luck!
Start by engaging in some self-reflection: Identify the activities that spark joy in you, that invigorate you and make you feel fulfilled. If you're uncertain about what these might be, don't hesitate to reach out to your friends and family for their observations about what brings you joy.
Equally crucial is recognizing what you genuinely dislike doing, enabling you to eliminate those options from your consideration.
Once you've identified your passions and dislikes, you can begin exploring careers that align with your interests. This approach will lead you towards a career that not only motivates you but also brings you joy. Utilize resources like local career libraries at schools or universities, or even simple Google searches. Attend career fairs, ask acquaintances about their jobs, and maintain a sense of curiosity about the various professions out there.
As you start to hone in on potential careers, consider the kind of lifestyle you aspire to. Will the career you're considering provide the lifestyle you desire? Remember, work should support your life, not the other way around.
Lastly, don't feel limited by existing careers. The professional landscape is constantly evolving, with some roles disappearing and new ones emerging. Therefore, cultivating flexibility and adaptability in your skills and mindset will position you well for future opportunities.
Good Luck!
Molly Hollingsworth
HR Clerk
80
Answers
Coppell, Texas
Updated
Molly’s Answer
Bianca,
This is a great question! Simply answered, I would recommend to step your foot into multiple areas. If you find that what you are currently in or studying does not satisfy and appeal to what you want to do in the future, then you can easily shift away from that one area and focus in another. In college, I knew that I wanted to focus my studies in general business. However, that is all I knew. After focusing my studies in multiple areas of business, I found my way into Human Resources where I currently am working in today. I received my MBA focusing specifically in Organizational Behavior and Human Resources, and currently have a position as an Human Resources Administrator for a Sam's Club distribution and fulfillment center. You will never know what you like until you dip your foot in the water and tread through several areas!
I hope this helped!
Molly H.
This is a great question! Simply answered, I would recommend to step your foot into multiple areas. If you find that what you are currently in or studying does not satisfy and appeal to what you want to do in the future, then you can easily shift away from that one area and focus in another. In college, I knew that I wanted to focus my studies in general business. However, that is all I knew. After focusing my studies in multiple areas of business, I found my way into Human Resources where I currently am working in today. I received my MBA focusing specifically in Organizational Behavior and Human Resources, and currently have a position as an Human Resources Administrator for a Sam's Club distribution and fulfillment center. You will never know what you like until you dip your foot in the water and tread through several areas!
I hope this helped!
Molly H.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6193
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Bianca,
Guidelines for Identifying Your Ideal Career Path
Choosing the perfect career can be a demanding and self-reflective journey. Here are some proactive steps to assist you in pinpointing a fitting career:
Self-Appraisal: Begin by scrutinizing your hobbies, principles, abilities, and character traits. Reflect on the tasks you relish, the subjects you're good at, and the type of work setting you flourish in. Tools like career evaluations or personality quizzes can offer beneficial insights.
Investigation: Delve into various sectors and occupations that coincide with your passions and capabilities. Arrange informational discussions with professionals in the fields you're contemplating to gain a deeper comprehension of the daily duties and prerequisites of those roles.
Education and Training: Reflect on the educational or training level needed for the careers you're attracted to. Look into the academic programs, certificates, or skill enhancement courses that can prepare you for your preferred career.
Internships and Job Shadowing: Acquire practical knowledge through internships or job shadowing opportunities. This firsthand experience can offer you a real-life view of a specific career and assist you in determining if it's the right match for you.
Networking: Construct a professional network by linking with individuals in your preferred field. Attend industry gatherings, become a member of professional groups, and interact with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn to broaden your network and discover more about potential career routes.
Seek Counsel: Think about seeking advice from career advisors, mentors, or coaches who can offer valuable guidance and support as you traverse your career exploration journey.
Steps to Initiate Your Career
After you've pinpointed the career path you wish to follow, here are some steps to jumpstart your professional journey:
Establish Clear Goals: Set short-term and long-term career goals. Create milestones to help you monitor your progress and maintain motivation.
Develop Relevant Skills: Recognize the skills and qualifications required for your chosen career and focus on honing them. This may involve pursuing further education, earning certificates, or gaining practical experience through internships or volunteer work.
Cultivate Your Professional Brand: Develop a robust resume, LinkedIn profile, and professional portfolio that emphasize your skills, experiences, and accomplishments. Networking with industry professionals can also enhance your profile.
Apply for Jobs: Begin applying for entry-level roles or internships in your chosen field. Customize your applications to highlight how your skills and experiences match the role's requirements.
Continuous Learning: Stay informed about industry trends and advancements by attending workshops, conferences, or online courses. Ongoing learning will help you remain competitive in your field.
Creating a Plan for Your Desired Career
Formulating a strategic career plan can help you stay concentrated and effectively attain your professional goals:
Set Your Goals: Clearly specify what you aim to achieve in your career - whether it's attaining a certain position, earning a specific salary, or making a significant impact in your field.
Formulate an Action Plan: Break down your long-term goals into smaller, manageable steps. Set deadlines for each milestone and create a timeline to monitor your progress.
Solicit Feedback: Regularly ask for feedback from mentors, colleagues, or managers to assess your performance and pinpoint areas for enhancement.
Adaptability: Stay flexible in your approach as new opportunities emerge or situations change. Being adaptable will enable you to shift direction when needed without losing sight of your ultimate career goals.
Review and Modify: Periodically reassess your career plan to determine whether you're progressing towards your goals. Make modifications as necessary based on new data or shifting priorities.
By adhering to these steps, you can gain clarity about your preferred career path, take proactive measures towards initiating your career journey, and devise a structured plan to guide you towards long-term success.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used:
Harvard Business Review
The Balance Careers
U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics
These sources were referred to for their esteemed insights on career planning tactics, job market trends, educational prerequisites for various professions, and professional development tips.
GOD BLESS YOU!
James Constantine Frangos.
Guidelines for Identifying Your Ideal Career Path
Choosing the perfect career can be a demanding and self-reflective journey. Here are some proactive steps to assist you in pinpointing a fitting career:
Self-Appraisal: Begin by scrutinizing your hobbies, principles, abilities, and character traits. Reflect on the tasks you relish, the subjects you're good at, and the type of work setting you flourish in. Tools like career evaluations or personality quizzes can offer beneficial insights.
Investigation: Delve into various sectors and occupations that coincide with your passions and capabilities. Arrange informational discussions with professionals in the fields you're contemplating to gain a deeper comprehension of the daily duties and prerequisites of those roles.
Education and Training: Reflect on the educational or training level needed for the careers you're attracted to. Look into the academic programs, certificates, or skill enhancement courses that can prepare you for your preferred career.
Internships and Job Shadowing: Acquire practical knowledge through internships or job shadowing opportunities. This firsthand experience can offer you a real-life view of a specific career and assist you in determining if it's the right match for you.
Networking: Construct a professional network by linking with individuals in your preferred field. Attend industry gatherings, become a member of professional groups, and interact with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn to broaden your network and discover more about potential career routes.
Seek Counsel: Think about seeking advice from career advisors, mentors, or coaches who can offer valuable guidance and support as you traverse your career exploration journey.
Steps to Initiate Your Career
After you've pinpointed the career path you wish to follow, here are some steps to jumpstart your professional journey:
Establish Clear Goals: Set short-term and long-term career goals. Create milestones to help you monitor your progress and maintain motivation.
Develop Relevant Skills: Recognize the skills and qualifications required for your chosen career and focus on honing them. This may involve pursuing further education, earning certificates, or gaining practical experience through internships or volunteer work.
Cultivate Your Professional Brand: Develop a robust resume, LinkedIn profile, and professional portfolio that emphasize your skills, experiences, and accomplishments. Networking with industry professionals can also enhance your profile.
Apply for Jobs: Begin applying for entry-level roles or internships in your chosen field. Customize your applications to highlight how your skills and experiences match the role's requirements.
Continuous Learning: Stay informed about industry trends and advancements by attending workshops, conferences, or online courses. Ongoing learning will help you remain competitive in your field.
Creating a Plan for Your Desired Career
Formulating a strategic career plan can help you stay concentrated and effectively attain your professional goals:
Set Your Goals: Clearly specify what you aim to achieve in your career - whether it's attaining a certain position, earning a specific salary, or making a significant impact in your field.
Formulate an Action Plan: Break down your long-term goals into smaller, manageable steps. Set deadlines for each milestone and create a timeline to monitor your progress.
Solicit Feedback: Regularly ask for feedback from mentors, colleagues, or managers to assess your performance and pinpoint areas for enhancement.
Adaptability: Stay flexible in your approach as new opportunities emerge or situations change. Being adaptable will enable you to shift direction when needed without losing sight of your ultimate career goals.
Review and Modify: Periodically reassess your career plan to determine whether you're progressing towards your goals. Make modifications as necessary based on new data or shifting priorities.
By adhering to these steps, you can gain clarity about your preferred career path, take proactive measures towards initiating your career journey, and devise a structured plan to guide you towards long-term success.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used:
Harvard Business Review
The Balance Careers
U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics
These sources were referred to for their esteemed insights on career planning tactics, job market trends, educational prerequisites for various professions, and professional development tips.
GOD BLESS YOU!
James Constantine Frangos.
Jonny Booth
United States Marine
32
Answers
Davenport, Iowa
Updated
Jonny’s Answer
The most effective approach is to simply give a shot at something you're intrigued by. If you find that choice unappealing, don't hesitate to explore other options. If those don't suit you either, continue your search. Uncovering your genuine passion for something isn't an instantaneous process. It necessitates certain life experiences and motivations to achieve something. So, don't hold back, just give it a try. This will assist you in discovering your true purpose.