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jen
Student
1
Question
Asked
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how to decide on a future career?
I'm having trouble deciding on what career path to go into for my lifelong job, but I cant seem to decide which path to go down.. is there a little hack or something to reduce my options so I can pick one?
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9 answers
Nick Wong
IBM Sales Manager - Data, AI, and Automation Software
5
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Nick’s Answer
The best way to decide on your career is to keep an open mind and try a lot of different things - apply for internships, consider taking a role outside of your comfort zone, etc. The right career choice will ultimately be something that you're passionate about - if you aren't excited to wake up and go to work everyday, you won't find happiness / success. Sometimes, trying something new will be a way to narrow down your choice by identifying what you definitely do NOT want to do long-term - when I was younger, I had an internship with a large non-profit healthcare organization, and that helped me realize it wasn't a field / company that I was personally interested in long-term.
The great news in all of this though is that you're not necessarily locked into any one career. Your first job (or 2nd or 3rd, etc.) doesn't need to be a lifelong job - if you find yourself doing something you had enjoyed at first but not anymore, you absolutely have the ability to change careers. Plenty of people don't really know what they want to do until later in their life, so don't feel like you're going to get locked in if you don't land on that perfect job the first time.
The great news in all of this though is that you're not necessarily locked into any one career. Your first job (or 2nd or 3rd, etc.) doesn't need to be a lifelong job - if you find yourself doing something you had enjoyed at first but not anymore, you absolutely have the ability to change careers. Plenty of people don't really know what they want to do until later in their life, so don't feel like you're going to get locked in if you don't land on that perfect job the first time.
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
Hello Jen,
How to Decide on a Future Career
Choosing a future career path can be a daunting task, especially when faced with numerous options and uncertainties about the future. However, there are several steps you can take to help narrow down your choices and make an informed decision:
Self-Assessment: Start by evaluating your interests, values, skills, and personality traits. Consider what activities you enjoy doing, what subjects you excel in, and what values are important to you. Understanding yourself better can help you identify potential career paths that align with your strengths and preferences.
Research Career Options: Explore different industries, job roles, and professions that interest you. Conduct research online, speak to professionals in those fields, attend career fairs, and consider shadowing or interning in various roles to gain firsthand experience. This exposure can provide valuable insights into the day-to-day responsibilities of different careers.
Set Goals: Define your long-term career goals and aspirations. Consider where you see yourself in five or ten years and what steps you need to take to achieve those goals. Setting clear objectives can help guide your decision-making process and keep you focused on pursuing a career that aligns with your ambitions.
Consider Education and Training: Evaluate the educational requirements and training programs associated with your potential career choices. Determine if further education or certifications are necessary to enter your desired field and assess whether you are willing to invest the time and resources required for such qualifications.
Seek Guidance: Don’t hesitate to seek advice from career counselors, mentors, teachers, or professionals in the industry. They can provide valuable insights, guidance, and support as you navigate through the decision-making process.
Reflect on Your Values: Consider what matters most to you in a career beyond financial rewards. Reflect on factors such as work-life balance, job satisfaction, opportunities for growth and advancement, company culture, and societal impact. Prioritize aspects that resonate with your values when evaluating different career options.
Trial Periods or Internships: If possible, consider taking up internships or short-term positions in fields of interest before committing to a long-term career path. This hands-on experience can give you a taste of what it’s like to work in a particular industry and help you assess whether it’s a good fit for you.
Decision-Making Process: Once you have gathered all relevant information and insights, create a pros-and-cons list for each potential career option. Evaluate each option based on factors such as job outlook, salary prospects, personal fulfillment, growth opportunities, and alignment with your skills and interests.
Trust Your Instincts: Ultimately, trust your instincts when making a decision about your future career path. Listen to your gut feeling about which option excites you the most and feels like the right fit for you in the long run.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
Harvard Business Review: The Harvard Business Review provides insightful articles on career development strategies, decision-making processes related to choosing a career path.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS offers comprehensive data on job outlooks, salary information across various industries which can aid in making informed decisions about future careers.
CareerOneStop by the U.S Department of Labor: CareerOneStop offers tools for self-assessment tests related to interests and skills that can assist individuals in identifying suitable career paths based on their strengths.
These sources were instrumental in providing accurate information regarding career decision-making processes based on reliable data analysis and expert opinions within the field of career development.
God Bless,
JC.
How to Decide on a Future Career
Choosing a future career path can be a daunting task, especially when faced with numerous options and uncertainties about the future. However, there are several steps you can take to help narrow down your choices and make an informed decision:
Self-Assessment: Start by evaluating your interests, values, skills, and personality traits. Consider what activities you enjoy doing, what subjects you excel in, and what values are important to you. Understanding yourself better can help you identify potential career paths that align with your strengths and preferences.
Research Career Options: Explore different industries, job roles, and professions that interest you. Conduct research online, speak to professionals in those fields, attend career fairs, and consider shadowing or interning in various roles to gain firsthand experience. This exposure can provide valuable insights into the day-to-day responsibilities of different careers.
Set Goals: Define your long-term career goals and aspirations. Consider where you see yourself in five or ten years and what steps you need to take to achieve those goals. Setting clear objectives can help guide your decision-making process and keep you focused on pursuing a career that aligns with your ambitions.
Consider Education and Training: Evaluate the educational requirements and training programs associated with your potential career choices. Determine if further education or certifications are necessary to enter your desired field and assess whether you are willing to invest the time and resources required for such qualifications.
Seek Guidance: Don’t hesitate to seek advice from career counselors, mentors, teachers, or professionals in the industry. They can provide valuable insights, guidance, and support as you navigate through the decision-making process.
Reflect on Your Values: Consider what matters most to you in a career beyond financial rewards. Reflect on factors such as work-life balance, job satisfaction, opportunities for growth and advancement, company culture, and societal impact. Prioritize aspects that resonate with your values when evaluating different career options.
Trial Periods or Internships: If possible, consider taking up internships or short-term positions in fields of interest before committing to a long-term career path. This hands-on experience can give you a taste of what it’s like to work in a particular industry and help you assess whether it’s a good fit for you.
Decision-Making Process: Once you have gathered all relevant information and insights, create a pros-and-cons list for each potential career option. Evaluate each option based on factors such as job outlook, salary prospects, personal fulfillment, growth opportunities, and alignment with your skills and interests.
Trust Your Instincts: Ultimately, trust your instincts when making a decision about your future career path. Listen to your gut feeling about which option excites you the most and feels like the right fit for you in the long run.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
Harvard Business Review: The Harvard Business Review provides insightful articles on career development strategies, decision-making processes related to choosing a career path.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS offers comprehensive data on job outlooks, salary information across various industries which can aid in making informed decisions about future careers.
CareerOneStop by the U.S Department of Labor: CareerOneStop offers tools for self-assessment tests related to interests and skills that can assist individuals in identifying suitable career paths based on their strengths.
These sources were instrumental in providing accurate information regarding career decision-making processes based on reliable data analysis and expert opinions within the field of career development.
God Bless,
JC.
Rebecca Tang
Banking
1860
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. Many students have similar question. Firstly, you need to find out what careers you have first.
Below are my suggestions :
1. Think about what you have interest, e.g. your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc. and identify the related careers
If you like music, would you like to be a musician, musical artist, singer, music composer, music producer, etc.
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, 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 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in the college
Bear in mind that you may change your interest throughout your lifetime. Hence, you may change your career. This happens to many people.
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
Below are my suggestions :
1. Think about what you have interest, e.g. your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc. and identify the related careers
If you like music, would you like to be a musician, musical artist, singer, music composer, music producer, etc.
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, 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 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in the college
Bear in mind that you may change your interest throughout your lifetime. Hence, you may change your career. This happens to many people.
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
Kasey Clement
Sales Supervisor
3
Answers
Nashua, New Hampshire
Updated
Kasey’s Answer
Hey Jen!
This is a fantastic chance for you to explore your own interests and find what truly motivates you. Searching for a job and building a career might seem like two separate things, but remember, a job can be a stepping stone towards a fulfilling career.
Here's a practical step you can take: start journaling. Jot down your interests and rank them according to their significance to you. Once you have this list, start brainstorming on how to align your path with these interests. It could be through pursuing higher education, attending a vocational school, or diving straight into the job market.
Remember, the power to shape your future lies in your hands! I always suggest following your passion. When you love what you do, it doesn't feel like work at all!
This is a fantastic chance for you to explore your own interests and find what truly motivates you. Searching for a job and building a career might seem like two separate things, but remember, a job can be a stepping stone towards a fulfilling career.
Here's a practical step you can take: start journaling. Jot down your interests and rank them according to their significance to you. Once you have this list, start brainstorming on how to align your path with these interests. It could be through pursuing higher education, attending a vocational school, or diving straight into the job market.
Remember, the power to shape your future lies in your hands! I always suggest following your passion. When you love what you do, it doesn't feel like work at all!
Katherine "Katie" Robinson
Event Production and Hospitality
1
Answer
Mission Viejo, California
Updated
Katherine "Katie"’s Answer
I think perhaps one of the most important things to remember when deciding on a career to pursue is to remember that nothing has to be permanent. Of course, if you find a career you love and it meets your needs and expectations, that's great! However, if you pursue a career and none of the positions within that field satisfy the points that are most important to you, it's ok to try something new.
Remember that leaving a job that isn't good for you to pursue something better does not make you "a quitter."
As others have mentioned, create a list of what is important to you in a job. What kind of hours do you want to work? Do you intend to have a life partner or family? How will your job and its hours impact your time with them? Where do you want to live? Does this position work with your commute? Does this position financially support your life and where you live? DOES THIS JOB BRING YOU JOY? Or do you go to work every day dreading the day ahead of you? Some questions are more logisitcal/logical and some are more personal/emotional, but they are all important. It just depends on what it most important to you.
Remember that leaving a job that isn't good for you to pursue something better does not make you "a quitter."
As others have mentioned, create a list of what is important to you in a job. What kind of hours do you want to work? Do you intend to have a life partner or family? How will your job and its hours impact your time with them? Where do you want to live? Does this position work with your commute? Does this position financially support your life and where you live? DOES THIS JOB BRING YOU JOY? Or do you go to work every day dreading the day ahead of you? Some questions are more logisitcal/logical and some are more personal/emotional, but they are all important. It just depends on what it most important to you.
Atul Bhankharia
Sales
477
Answers
Mount Laurel, New Jersey
Updated
Atul’s Answer
Your school's friendly guidance counselor is always ready to lend a hand. They're equipped with a variety of tools designed to help you make informed decisions about your future, but remember, the final call is always yours. To start, think about the subjects you excel in and enjoy. Your passion for these subjects can guide you towards your ideal career path.
If you're a whiz at Math, why not consider a future in Computer Science? Biology buffs might find a rewarding career in medicine or biomedical engineering. Chemistry enthusiasts could explore becoming a pharmacist or a chemical engineer. Physics fans might enjoy the life of a physicist. If English is your forte, you could consider being a technical writer, teacher, or even a lawyer. History lovers often find their calling in law or teaching.
These are just a few examples to give you an idea of the industries you could work in. Remember, if you choose to attend a state university, you'll have the flexibility to change your major. This is because the first two years of college are typically quite similar across different majors, with only a few exceptions.
Sometimes, we need to try out a major to realize it's not the right fit for us. So, don't hesitate to ask people in different industries about their experiences. Find out what they enjoy about their work and what skills or knowledge they needed to succeed. You can ask your parents, neighbors, your friends' parents, relatives, and so on. They could provide valuable insights to help you make the best decision for your future.
If you're a whiz at Math, why not consider a future in Computer Science? Biology buffs might find a rewarding career in medicine or biomedical engineering. Chemistry enthusiasts could explore becoming a pharmacist or a chemical engineer. Physics fans might enjoy the life of a physicist. If English is your forte, you could consider being a technical writer, teacher, or even a lawyer. History lovers often find their calling in law or teaching.
These are just a few examples to give you an idea of the industries you could work in. Remember, if you choose to attend a state university, you'll have the flexibility to change your major. This is because the first two years of college are typically quite similar across different majors, with only a few exceptions.
Sometimes, we need to try out a major to realize it's not the right fit for us. So, don't hesitate to ask people in different industries about their experiences. Find out what they enjoy about their work and what skills or knowledge they needed to succeed. You can ask your parents, neighbors, your friends' parents, relatives, and so on. They could provide valuable insights to help you make the best decision for your future.
Paige Zaval
Sales Recruiter
2
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Paige’s Answer
Hey there, Jen!
We've all pondered this question at some point, and many of us still do! It's completely normal. My first piece of advice would be to not put so much pressure on finding your lifelong job. It's not unusual to switch career paths multiple times. Start by compiling a list of activities you genuinely enjoy. It could be anything from interacting with people, assisting others, hands-on tasks, teaching, and so on. This could help you identify the direction you might want to take your career in.
Another great strategy is to network and engage in conversations with people from various fields. This will give you a real-world insight into the pros and cons of their daily work life, helping you determine if it's something that could interest you. Plus, they could potentially assist you in securing a job if you decide to venture into their field!
Remember, if your chosen path doesn't require a high-level degree, there's plenty of room for exploration and career shifts. Sometimes, the clarity you seek only comes with experience, and that's all part of the exciting journey! So, keep an open mind and enjoy the process.
We've all pondered this question at some point, and many of us still do! It's completely normal. My first piece of advice would be to not put so much pressure on finding your lifelong job. It's not unusual to switch career paths multiple times. Start by compiling a list of activities you genuinely enjoy. It could be anything from interacting with people, assisting others, hands-on tasks, teaching, and so on. This could help you identify the direction you might want to take your career in.
Another great strategy is to network and engage in conversations with people from various fields. This will give you a real-world insight into the pros and cons of their daily work life, helping you determine if it's something that could interest you. Plus, they could potentially assist you in securing a job if you decide to venture into their field!
Remember, if your chosen path doesn't require a high-level degree, there's plenty of room for exploration and career shifts. Sometimes, the clarity you seek only comes with experience, and that's all part of the exciting journey! So, keep an open mind and enjoy the process.
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 Jen!
Guidelines to Determine Your Future Profession
Deciding on a future profession can seem like a mammoth task, but there are several methods that can assist you in narrowing down your choices and making a well-informed decision. Here are some steps to ponder when determining your future profession:
Self-Analysis: The initial step in determining your future profession is to perform a self-analysis. This includes assessing your interests, values, abilities, and personality traits. Recognizing what drives you and where your talents lie can offer valuable insights into potential professions that match your strengths and passions.
Investigate Job Opportunities: Once you've grasped your own strengths and interests, it's crucial to investigate various job opportunities. Delve into different sectors, job roles, and potential employers to acquire a holistic understanding of the opportunities at your disposal. Consider aspects such as job prospects, potential earnings, work-life harmony, and advancement opportunities in each field.
Seek Advice: Obtaining advice from mentors, career advisors, or professionals in fields you're interested in can offer valuable insights and guidance. Networking with individuals who are already successful in their professions can provide firsthand knowledge about different sectors and help you acquire a realistic view of various career paths.
Acquire Experience: Think about acquiring practical experience through internships, part-time jobs, or volunteering in fields that pique your interest. Practical experience can offer valuable exposure to different work settings and help you decide if a specific career path is the right match for you.
Establish Goals: Establishing clear goals for your future profession can guide your decision-making process. Think about both short-term and long-term goals, such as the kind of work you want to do, the level of education or training needed, and the lifestyle you aim to achieve through your profession.
Assess Your Options: After conducting thorough research and acquiring practical experience, assess your options based on how well they match your self-analysis, research findings, advice received, and personal goals. Consider the potential for growth, job satisfaction, work-life harmony, and alignment with your values when assessing different career paths.
Make a Choice: Finally, making a choice about your future profession may involve weighing the pros and cons of each option and considering which path best matches your aspirations and circumstances. It’s crucial to remember that career choices are not permanent and can change over time as you acquire new experiences and insights.
By adhering to these steps, you can simplify the overwhelming number of options and make a well-informed decision about your future career path.
Image Description: A picture illustrating an individual pondering their future while observing a city skyline from a high viewpoint.
Pondering Future
Top 3 Credible Reference Publications or Domain Names Used in Answering this Question:
Harvard Business Review: A premier source for business news, research, and authoritative insights on professional growth and career planning.
The Balance Careers: A credible platform offering expert advice on career growth, job search strategies, and industry-specific insights.
Forbes: A reputable business magazine providing extensive coverage of global business trends, leadership insights, and career-related content.
GOD BLESS,
JAMES.
Guidelines to Determine Your Future Profession
Deciding on a future profession can seem like a mammoth task, but there are several methods that can assist you in narrowing down your choices and making a well-informed decision. Here are some steps to ponder when determining your future profession:
Self-Analysis: The initial step in determining your future profession is to perform a self-analysis. This includes assessing your interests, values, abilities, and personality traits. Recognizing what drives you and where your talents lie can offer valuable insights into potential professions that match your strengths and passions.
Investigate Job Opportunities: Once you've grasped your own strengths and interests, it's crucial to investigate various job opportunities. Delve into different sectors, job roles, and potential employers to acquire a holistic understanding of the opportunities at your disposal. Consider aspects such as job prospects, potential earnings, work-life harmony, and advancement opportunities in each field.
Seek Advice: Obtaining advice from mentors, career advisors, or professionals in fields you're interested in can offer valuable insights and guidance. Networking with individuals who are already successful in their professions can provide firsthand knowledge about different sectors and help you acquire a realistic view of various career paths.
Acquire Experience: Think about acquiring practical experience through internships, part-time jobs, or volunteering in fields that pique your interest. Practical experience can offer valuable exposure to different work settings and help you decide if a specific career path is the right match for you.
Establish Goals: Establishing clear goals for your future profession can guide your decision-making process. Think about both short-term and long-term goals, such as the kind of work you want to do, the level of education or training needed, and the lifestyle you aim to achieve through your profession.
Assess Your Options: After conducting thorough research and acquiring practical experience, assess your options based on how well they match your self-analysis, research findings, advice received, and personal goals. Consider the potential for growth, job satisfaction, work-life harmony, and alignment with your values when assessing different career paths.
Make a Choice: Finally, making a choice about your future profession may involve weighing the pros and cons of each option and considering which path best matches your aspirations and circumstances. It’s crucial to remember that career choices are not permanent and can change over time as you acquire new experiences and insights.
By adhering to these steps, you can simplify the overwhelming number of options and make a well-informed decision about your future career path.
Image Description: A picture illustrating an individual pondering their future while observing a city skyline from a high viewpoint.
Pondering Future
Top 3 Credible Reference Publications or Domain Names Used in Answering this Question:
Harvard Business Review: A premier source for business news, research, and authoritative insights on professional growth and career planning.
The Balance Careers: A credible platform offering expert advice on career growth, job search strategies, and industry-specific insights.
Forbes: A reputable business magazine providing extensive coverage of global business trends, leadership insights, and career-related content.
GOD BLESS,
JAMES.
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
613
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
Hi Jen. This is a great question! While some seem to set their mind to a career early on, I think there are a fair number of people who really have no clue what they want to do (this included me).
I found that by doing a general studies degree (Associates in Letters, Arts and Sciences) I was able to keep moving forward in life while experiencing new things.
Besides that, go networking and talk with people about their work. Attend career fairs and maybe do an internship. The world is literally filled with possibilities.
I found that by doing a general studies degree (Associates in Letters, Arts and Sciences) I was able to keep moving forward in life while experiencing new things.
Besides that, go networking and talk with people about their work. Attend career fairs and maybe do an internship. The world is literally filled with possibilities.