4 answers
Hank
Student
St. George, Utah
1
Question
Asked
489 views
What jobs should I look into or consider as I get older?
Should I work for a small business or a large one?
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4 answers
Rebecca Tang
Banking
1816
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. It really depends on the career you would like to work. Different different may have different optimal scale. The scale of business is really subject to its industry, target client segment, stages of their business stage, etc.
First of all, you may find out what industry / career you have interest. The corporate size may not be the major factor for you to decide your career.
Below are my suggestions :
1. Think about what you have interest first, e.g. your hobbies, favorite subjects, etc. and identify the related careers
E.g. If you like music, would you like to be a singer, musician, music composer, musical artist, music producer, etc.
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, banker, engineer, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc.
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counsellor, your parents, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 career you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in the colleges
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
First of all, you may find out what industry / career you have interest. The corporate size may not be the major factor for you to decide your career.
Below are my suggestions :
1. Think about what you have interest first, e.g. your hobbies, favorite subjects, etc. and identify the related careers
E.g. If you like music, would you like to be a singer, musician, music composer, musical artist, music producer, etc.
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, banker, engineer, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc.
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counsellor, your parents, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 career you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in the colleges
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
This was super helpful, thank you!
Hank
Ravi Sinha
Project Manager
2
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Ravi’s Answer
Hi,
Several gaps here. What would you consider 'older'? I am pushing 60 and feel I have at least 15 years of work capacity still remining in me. My work is still primarily in the field with some physical work involved. I do feel older, but not 'old' per se.
I changed my primary job which I was trained for about 18 years back to take up something related but quite different. So, a mid-career change would be what many would consider the pivot point.
At that point I would take into consideration the following:
(1) Health and Physical status: If you have been in the field and especially in the operations section, a lot would depend on whether the job you are considering is physically taxing or not
(2) Financial conditions: Here in the US, there is the student loan, then the car loan and then the mortgage requirements to consider as standard payments that would be worth considering
(3) Current status in the line of choice: Are you overperforming, a mediocre performer or just so-so in your current role and line chosen. If it is a tectonic change let it be once and not hop, skip and jump from career-choice to career-choice at that stage.
As far as small versus large business choices, I would always go, at that stage, for the large business sector with greater opportunities. Small businesses are good to retire with - the 'old' stage of your life.
All of the above is a very personal outlook on your query and I would suggest discussing with your peers and elders a little more before setting your heart on to some life model.
I ask myself two questions at work each day and they are:
(aa) Am I feeling safe?
(bb) Am I having fun?
The day you stop saying "yes" to both is the day you are ready to move on.
Several gaps here. What would you consider 'older'? I am pushing 60 and feel I have at least 15 years of work capacity still remining in me. My work is still primarily in the field with some physical work involved. I do feel older, but not 'old' per se.
I changed my primary job which I was trained for about 18 years back to take up something related but quite different. So, a mid-career change would be what many would consider the pivot point.
At that point I would take into consideration the following:
(1) Health and Physical status: If you have been in the field and especially in the operations section, a lot would depend on whether the job you are considering is physically taxing or not
(2) Financial conditions: Here in the US, there is the student loan, then the car loan and then the mortgage requirements to consider as standard payments that would be worth considering
(3) Current status in the line of choice: Are you overperforming, a mediocre performer or just so-so in your current role and line chosen. If it is a tectonic change let it be once and not hop, skip and jump from career-choice to career-choice at that stage.
As far as small versus large business choices, I would always go, at that stage, for the large business sector with greater opportunities. Small businesses are good to retire with - the 'old' stage of your life.
All of the above is a very personal outlook on your query and I would suggest discussing with your peers and elders a little more before setting your heart on to some life model.
I ask myself two questions at work each day and they are:
(aa) Am I feeling safe?
(bb) Am I having fun?
The day you stop saying "yes" to both is the day you are ready to move on.
I am really grateful you took the time to answer this question.
Hank
Jacob Taylor
Production Manager
521
Answers
Stafford, Virginia
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
As you think about your future career options, there are several factors to consider, including your interests, skills, values, and personal preferences. Here are some steps to help you explore and decide on potential jobs and whether to work for a small business or a large one:
**1. Self-Assessment:**
- Start by reflecting on your interests, strengths, and what truly excites you. Consider the activities or subjects you enjoy and excel at.
**2. Identify Your Values:**
- Think about your values and what matters most to you in a job. For example, do you prioritize work-life balance, job security, innovation, or a specific cause or mission?
**3. Research Careers:**
- Explore different career paths that align with your interests and values. Consider industries and roles that you find appealing.
**4. Education and Training:**
- Determine the educational or training requirements for your chosen career path. Some jobs may require specific degrees or certifications.
**5. Gain Experience:**
- Seek internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer opportunities in fields you're interested in. Practical experience can help you confirm your interests and build your resume.
**6. Networking:**
- Connect with professionals in your desired industry or field through networking events, LinkedIn, and informational interviews. They can provide insights into their career paths and offer guidance.
**7. Small vs. Large Businesses:**
- Consider the pros and cons of working for small and large businesses:
- **Small Business:**
- Pros: Often offer a close-knit, collaborative environment where you can take on diverse roles. You may have more visibility and opportunities to make a significant impact.
- Cons: Limited resources and potentially lower job security compared to larger corporations.
- **Large Business:**
- Pros: Typically offer structured training programs, more extensive benefits, and opportunities for career advancement. They often have established brand recognition.
- Cons: Can be more bureaucratic and hierarchical, with less autonomy in decision-making.
**8. Career Growth and Stability:**
- Consider the long-term prospects of your chosen career path. Some industries offer more stability or growth potential than others.
**9. Work-Life Balance:**
- Think about your desired work-life balance. Some jobs may demand longer hours or more flexibility, depending on the employer and industry.
**10. Trial and Adapt:**
- Don't be afraid to try different jobs or industries to discover what suits you best. Your career path may evolve over time.
**11. Seek Guidance:**
- Talk to career counselors, mentors, or professionals who can provide advice based on their experiences.
**12. Set Goals:**
- Establish clear career goals and create a plan to achieve them. Regularly revisit and adjust your goals as needed.
Remember that career decisions can evolve, and it's okay to change direction as you gain more experience and clarity about your interests and values. The most important thing is to pursue a path that aligns with your passions and values, as this will likely lead to greater job satisfaction and fulfillment in the long run.
**1. Self-Assessment:**
- Start by reflecting on your interests, strengths, and what truly excites you. Consider the activities or subjects you enjoy and excel at.
**2. Identify Your Values:**
- Think about your values and what matters most to you in a job. For example, do you prioritize work-life balance, job security, innovation, or a specific cause or mission?
**3. Research Careers:**
- Explore different career paths that align with your interests and values. Consider industries and roles that you find appealing.
**4. Education and Training:**
- Determine the educational or training requirements for your chosen career path. Some jobs may require specific degrees or certifications.
**5. Gain Experience:**
- Seek internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer opportunities in fields you're interested in. Practical experience can help you confirm your interests and build your resume.
**6. Networking:**
- Connect with professionals in your desired industry or field through networking events, LinkedIn, and informational interviews. They can provide insights into their career paths and offer guidance.
**7. Small vs. Large Businesses:**
- Consider the pros and cons of working for small and large businesses:
- **Small Business:**
- Pros: Often offer a close-knit, collaborative environment where you can take on diverse roles. You may have more visibility and opportunities to make a significant impact.
- Cons: Limited resources and potentially lower job security compared to larger corporations.
- **Large Business:**
- Pros: Typically offer structured training programs, more extensive benefits, and opportunities for career advancement. They often have established brand recognition.
- Cons: Can be more bureaucratic and hierarchical, with less autonomy in decision-making.
**8. Career Growth and Stability:**
- Consider the long-term prospects of your chosen career path. Some industries offer more stability or growth potential than others.
**9. Work-Life Balance:**
- Think about your desired work-life balance. Some jobs may demand longer hours or more flexibility, depending on the employer and industry.
**10. Trial and Adapt:**
- Don't be afraid to try different jobs or industries to discover what suits you best. Your career path may evolve over time.
**11. Seek Guidance:**
- Talk to career counselors, mentors, or professionals who can provide advice based on their experiences.
**12. Set Goals:**
- Establish clear career goals and create a plan to achieve them. Regularly revisit and adjust your goals as needed.
Remember that career decisions can evolve, and it's okay to change direction as you gain more experience and clarity about your interests and values. The most important thing is to pursue a path that aligns with your passions and values, as this will likely lead to greater job satisfaction and fulfillment in the long run.
Yaz M
Recruit
50
Answers
Orlando, Florida
Updated
Yaz’s Answer
What jobs you look into really depends on you as there are so many jobs in the marketplace!
I encourage you to do some research and note what jobs align with your interests. Once you know that, you can research companies that align with those interests. You should be able to see reviews on how people feel about the company, what benefits they offer and what the company culture is like! Working for a big company could be great because you can meet different people, you might better benefits (medical insurance), have learning opportunities and more! Working for a smaller company is great as well as it might have an easier entry barrier, maybe more learning opportunities and you might have more personal experiences with a smaller group of people. Working for a big or small company both have pros and cons but at the end of the day, you should choose to work with a company that interests you, regardless of size!
I encourage you to do some research and note what jobs align with your interests. Once you know that, you can research companies that align with those interests. You should be able to see reviews on how people feel about the company, what benefits they offer and what the company culture is like! Working for a big company could be great because you can meet different people, you might better benefits (medical insurance), have learning opportunities and more! Working for a smaller company is great as well as it might have an easier entry barrier, maybe more learning opportunities and you might have more personal experiences with a smaller group of people. Working for a big or small company both have pros and cons but at the end of the day, you should choose to work with a company that interests you, regardless of size!
Thank you, Yaz for the advice.
Hank