2 answers
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Palo Alto, California
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What should I consider when choosing an industry to work in?
Note: this is part of our professionals series where volunteers share questions they wish they saw on the platform
2 answers
Kimika Banfield, MSHRM, PAHR, CDR
Head of People and Talent
19
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Kimika’s Answer
Hi There! Thanks for your question. This a great question that should be asked more as it could be very impactful on your worklife balance, self-fulfillment, and satisfaction with the job. When choosing an industry to work in, there are several factors you should consider:
1. Personal Interest: It is important to choose an industry that aligns with your passions and interests. When you enjoy what you do, you are more likely to be motivated and satisfied with your work.
2. Job Opportunities: Research the job market and demand for skills in different industries. Look for industries that offer good employment prospects and growth opportunities.
3. Skills and Abilities: Assess your own skills, strengths, and abilities. Determine if they match the requirements of the industry you are considering. Consider if you need to acquire additional skills or education to succeed in that industry.
4. Work-Life Balance: Consider the typical work hours, travel requirements, and flexibility in the industry. Think about your personal priorities and how the industry's demands align with your desired work-life balance.
5. Salary and Benefits: Evaluate the potential earnings and benefits offered in the industry. Research the average salaries and growth potential to ensure it aligns with your financial goals.
6. Industry Outlook: Assess the long-term outlook and stability of the industry. Consider factors such as technological advancements, market trends, and potential disruptions that could impact the industry's future growth.
7. Company Culture: Research the culture and values of companies within the industry you are considering. Look for organizations that align with your own values and offer a positive work environment.
8. Networking Opportunities: Consider the networking opportunities available within the industry. Look for industries that provide opportunities to connect with professionals, attend conferences, and build relationships.
9. Location: Think about the location preferences that suit your lifestyle and career goals. Some industries are concentrated in specific regions or cities, so consider if you are willing to relocate if needed.
10. Personal Growth and Development: Evaluate the potential for personal growth, learning, and advancement within the industry. Look for industries that offer training programs, mentorship opportunities, and room for career progression.
By considering these factors, you can make a more informed decision about which industry is the best fit for you.
1. Personal Interest: It is important to choose an industry that aligns with your passions and interests. When you enjoy what you do, you are more likely to be motivated and satisfied with your work.
2. Job Opportunities: Research the job market and demand for skills in different industries. Look for industries that offer good employment prospects and growth opportunities.
3. Skills and Abilities: Assess your own skills, strengths, and abilities. Determine if they match the requirements of the industry you are considering. Consider if you need to acquire additional skills or education to succeed in that industry.
4. Work-Life Balance: Consider the typical work hours, travel requirements, and flexibility in the industry. Think about your personal priorities and how the industry's demands align with your desired work-life balance.
5. Salary and Benefits: Evaluate the potential earnings and benefits offered in the industry. Research the average salaries and growth potential to ensure it aligns with your financial goals.
6. Industry Outlook: Assess the long-term outlook and stability of the industry. Consider factors such as technological advancements, market trends, and potential disruptions that could impact the industry's future growth.
7. Company Culture: Research the culture and values of companies within the industry you are considering. Look for organizations that align with your own values and offer a positive work environment.
8. Networking Opportunities: Consider the networking opportunities available within the industry. Look for industries that provide opportunities to connect with professionals, attend conferences, and build relationships.
9. Location: Think about the location preferences that suit your lifestyle and career goals. Some industries are concentrated in specific regions or cities, so consider if you are willing to relocate if needed.
10. Personal Growth and Development: Evaluate the potential for personal growth, learning, and advancement within the industry. Look for industries that offer training programs, mentorship opportunities, and room for career progression.
By considering these factors, you can make a more informed decision about which industry is the best fit for you.
Marshall Main
Director, Manager, Videographer
75
Answers
Raleigh, North Carolina
Updated
Marshall’s Answer
Greetings-
You should try to find a job that is something you are good at/ able to do and enjoy doing.
I would suggest that you start by making a list of all the things that you have a passion for. Anything that you would do for free (or almost free), because you love it.
Then I would get online and google "jobs with [your passion]" putting in those things you love to do.
That will give some some direction as to companies, job titles and career paths that do those kinds of things. If you can then find some job postings, it will tell you what kind of degree or education they are looking for.
Then you can make a list of institutions and companies that are around you that either specialize in training or do that kind of work. Schedule a visit, meet people that teach or do that kind of work. Ask questions and learn more about the process and it should help guide you on what kind of career path you want to follow.
You can also take free career assessment tests online that will help in maybe giving direction or suggestions you hadn't even thought of.
You should try to find a job that is something you are good at/ able to do and enjoy doing.
I would suggest that you start by making a list of all the things that you have a passion for. Anything that you would do for free (or almost free), because you love it.
Then I would get online and google "jobs with [your passion]" putting in those things you love to do.
That will give some some direction as to companies, job titles and career paths that do those kinds of things. If you can then find some job postings, it will tell you what kind of degree or education they are looking for.
Then you can make a list of institutions and companies that are around you that either specialize in training or do that kind of work. Schedule a visit, meet people that teach or do that kind of work. Ask questions and learn more about the process and it should help guide you on what kind of career path you want to follow.
You can also take free career assessment tests online that will help in maybe giving direction or suggestions you hadn't even thought of.
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