7 answers
Destiny
Student
Johnson City, Tennessee
1
Question
Asked
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What do we do to start our career journey.
What tips and tricks are useful while finding a career?
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7 answers
David Markowitz
Risk Financial Advisory Analyst
1
Answer
Tarrytown, New York
Updated
David’s Answer
Hi Destiny!
I see there are a few other strong answers, so I will expand on networking as I think it is the most vital step when you start looking for jobs. Networking is important for both you and the jobs you are applying to, as it can help you gain a stronger understanding of the position, as well as help the firm gain a more complex understanding of you. When jobs review candidates, they tend to only examine your resume and cover letter, and they do this for countless candidates, so you need something to set your application apart from the rest. By networking with the company, you set yourself up for success by making them know your name before they ever even read your resume and cover letter, which can be especially vital when applying for very competitive positions with many applicants. So, you might be wondering, how do you start networking?
It is easiest to network with people who have some sort of connection with, maybe a shared background like you went to the same high school or college, or maybe you both know someone who can introduce you to them. My advice would be to first ask friends and family to see if they know anyone in the industry or at a company you wish to apply to, this is by far the easiest option if possible, but if it is unsuccessful do not worry, I was in the same situation. What I ended up doing was focusing on networking with Alumni. I did this through three main ways- at my college we had a website listing alumni who agreed to be contacted, as well as their position and company. I also met with staff of our career center frequently, and after some time they offered me additional assistance and guidance with that website. Lastly, there is LinkedIn, where you can search for companies, view the employees, and then use advanced search to try to find people who share a connection with you or who are alumni from your school. Not everyone responds this way, so I sent out many messages, and over time I made many connections. Other ways to network could include messaging people who work at the company that you have no connection to, they still may respond, or going to career fairs. I would note that when networking, it is good to reach out to many people at the same job of varying positions, I found it much easier to connect with the more recent hires, and while that is beneficial, it is important to still connect with more established people at the firm who could give you a recommendation.
Lastly, I have a few comments on what to do when and after connecting with people. I always had a list of questions about the firm prepared so I could learn more and show interest, and the most important question I would ask was at the end of the call, when I would ask if there were any other people they would recommend me connecting with, showing I wanted to continue to learn about the firm and connecting me with more people so it would be more likely that my application would get noticed. Additionally, I sent a thank you letter to each person after the call and had a spreadsheet containing the contact info of each person and some other information so I could connect with them again later on.
I hope this helps and best of luck with the start of your career search!
I see there are a few other strong answers, so I will expand on networking as I think it is the most vital step when you start looking for jobs. Networking is important for both you and the jobs you are applying to, as it can help you gain a stronger understanding of the position, as well as help the firm gain a more complex understanding of you. When jobs review candidates, they tend to only examine your resume and cover letter, and they do this for countless candidates, so you need something to set your application apart from the rest. By networking with the company, you set yourself up for success by making them know your name before they ever even read your resume and cover letter, which can be especially vital when applying for very competitive positions with many applicants. So, you might be wondering, how do you start networking?
It is easiest to network with people who have some sort of connection with, maybe a shared background like you went to the same high school or college, or maybe you both know someone who can introduce you to them. My advice would be to first ask friends and family to see if they know anyone in the industry or at a company you wish to apply to, this is by far the easiest option if possible, but if it is unsuccessful do not worry, I was in the same situation. What I ended up doing was focusing on networking with Alumni. I did this through three main ways- at my college we had a website listing alumni who agreed to be contacted, as well as their position and company. I also met with staff of our career center frequently, and after some time they offered me additional assistance and guidance with that website. Lastly, there is LinkedIn, where you can search for companies, view the employees, and then use advanced search to try to find people who share a connection with you or who are alumni from your school. Not everyone responds this way, so I sent out many messages, and over time I made many connections. Other ways to network could include messaging people who work at the company that you have no connection to, they still may respond, or going to career fairs. I would note that when networking, it is good to reach out to many people at the same job of varying positions, I found it much easier to connect with the more recent hires, and while that is beneficial, it is important to still connect with more established people at the firm who could give you a recommendation.
Lastly, I have a few comments on what to do when and after connecting with people. I always had a list of questions about the firm prepared so I could learn more and show interest, and the most important question I would ask was at the end of the call, when I would ask if there were any other people they would recommend me connecting with, showing I wanted to continue to learn about the firm and connecting me with more people so it would be more likely that my application would get noticed. Additionally, I sent a thank you letter to each person after the call and had a spreadsheet containing the contact info of each person and some other information so I could connect with them again later on.
I hope this helps and best of luck with the start of your career search!
Sam Anzai, ISA
IT Auditor
2
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Sam’s Answer
So many good answers here! Here's some additional thoughts:
1a) Go out and try new things: extracurriculars, leadership roles in organizations, part-time jobs, personal interests, and so on. Through this, you're going to notice things you do and don't like. You can keep a running list of what you notice - specific examples like enjoying writing, or more abstract ideas like following instructions to complete a task versus having free rein to finish something/solve a problem. What does this list look like? Do these align with a career? (see #2)
1b) While you do this, you are simultaneously building yourself personally and professionally. Chances are, these experiences might be usable on your resume or inform your perspective as you start doing job interviews.
2) Explore good fits for you: What are some careers you are interested in? Like others mentioned, there are sites where you can read about jobs. You can also talk to people about what a day in their job looks like. Does the career align with what you like (as you learned from #1)?
3) Research practicality: You might have some options in mind for things you wouldn't mind doing. Further research educational requirements, what the career outlook is, future demand for the role, salary, locations that are better for this kind of career, etc.
It's great to brainstorm and have a bunch of ideas, and then you can whittle it down to top choices once you have a decent understanding of what you want and what you like. You don't always have to be super passionate about what you're doing. It's totally valid to gain fulfillment outside of your job. However, it's good to find work that fits your work style, leadership style, preferences, etc., since so much of our lives are spent in our job.
1a) Go out and try new things: extracurriculars, leadership roles in organizations, part-time jobs, personal interests, and so on. Through this, you're going to notice things you do and don't like. You can keep a running list of what you notice - specific examples like enjoying writing, or more abstract ideas like following instructions to complete a task versus having free rein to finish something/solve a problem. What does this list look like? Do these align with a career? (see #2)
1b) While you do this, you are simultaneously building yourself personally and professionally. Chances are, these experiences might be usable on your resume or inform your perspective as you start doing job interviews.
2) Explore good fits for you: What are some careers you are interested in? Like others mentioned, there are sites where you can read about jobs. You can also talk to people about what a day in their job looks like. Does the career align with what you like (as you learned from #1)?
3) Research practicality: You might have some options in mind for things you wouldn't mind doing. Further research educational requirements, what the career outlook is, future demand for the role, salary, locations that are better for this kind of career, etc.
It's great to brainstorm and have a bunch of ideas, and then you can whittle it down to top choices once you have a decent understanding of what you want and what you like. You don't always have to be super passionate about what you're doing. It's totally valid to gain fulfillment outside of your job. However, it's good to find work that fits your work style, leadership style, preferences, etc., since so much of our lives are spent in our job.
Carlos R. Diazmuñoz AMC
Director of Photography/Cinematographer
10
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Carlos R.’s Answer
Hello Destiny,
Your question is indeed crucial, as it will shape your future. I can relate to your dilemma, as I too grappled with the same issue during my high school years. It can be overwhelming and pressurizing, especially at a young age.
Here's a friendly piece of advice, and a strategy that might help: Pursue what genuinely interests you in life, so your work doesn't feel like a chore, but rather a passion. It's okay if you're not sure about it right now, just be patient with yourself. Additionally, aim for a profession that is in demand, whether in your local area, your country, or even globally. Ideally, it should be something that can contribute positively to society and also provide a stable income. After all, we need to earn a living, so choosing a career wisely is essential.
Best of luck with your decision-making process.
Your question is indeed crucial, as it will shape your future. I can relate to your dilemma, as I too grappled with the same issue during my high school years. It can be overwhelming and pressurizing, especially at a young age.
Here's a friendly piece of advice, and a strategy that might help: Pursue what genuinely interests you in life, so your work doesn't feel like a chore, but rather a passion. It's okay if you're not sure about it right now, just be patient with yourself. Additionally, aim for a profession that is in demand, whether in your local area, your country, or even globally. Ideally, it should be something that can contribute positively to society and also provide a stable income. After all, we need to earn a living, so choosing a career wisely is essential.
Best of luck with your decision-making process.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6183
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Destiny,
Starting Your Career Journey: Tips and Tricks
Starting your career journey can be an exciting yet daunting experience. To make this process smoother, here are some essential tips and tricks to consider when embarking on this new chapter of your life:
Identify Your Interests and Skills
Before diving into the job market, take some time to reflect on your interests, strengths, and weaknesses. Understanding what you enjoy doing and where your talents lie will make it easier to find a career path that aligns with your passions and capabilities.
Set Realistic Goals
Setting clear, achievable goals helps you stay focused and motivated throughout your career journey. Break down your aspirations into smaller, manageable steps and establish timelines to keep yourself on track.
Networking
Networking is crucial in today’s job market. Connect with professionals in your desired field through social media platforms like LinkedIn, attend industry events, and join relevant associations. Building relationships with others in your industry can lead to valuable connections and job opportunities.
Develop Your Resume and Cover Letter
Your resume and cover letter are often the first impressions potential employers have of you. Ensure that both documents are well-written, error-free, and highlight your relevant skills and experiences. Customize them for each job application to demonstrate your suitability for the position.
Prepare for Interviews
Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but proper preparation can help ease your anxiety. Research common interview questions and practice answering them out loud. Familiarize yourself with the company and the role you’re applying for, and be prepared to discuss your achievements and experiences relevant to the position.
Continuous Learning
The world of work is constantly evolving, and staying up-to-date with industry trends and advancements is essential. Invest in your professional development by attending workshops, webinars, and conferences. Pursue additional certifications or degrees if necessary to enhance your skills and remain competitive in the job market.
Be Open to Feedback
Receiving constructive feedback is an opportunity for growth and improvement. Be open to criticism and use it as a tool to refine your skills and address any weaknesses.
Maintain a Positive Attitude
Finding the right job can take time and persistence. Maintaining a positive attitude throughout the process is crucial. Keep a growth mindset and remember that each rejection brings you one step closer to the right opportunity.
Authoritative Reference Titles
CareerOneStop
- This U.S. Department of Labor resource offers career exploration tools, resume assistance, and information on job search strategies. It was used to provide general guidance on starting a career journey and identifying interests and skills.
LinkedIn
- The professional networking platform provides access to millions of professionals across various industries. It was used as an example of an effective networking tool and a source of information on industry trends and job opportunities.
Glassdoor
- This website offers company reviews, salary information, and interview questions from current and former employees. It was used as an example of a resource for researching companies and preparing for interviews.
GOD BLESS!
James Constantine Frangos.
Starting Your Career Journey: Tips and Tricks
Starting your career journey can be an exciting yet daunting experience. To make this process smoother, here are some essential tips and tricks to consider when embarking on this new chapter of your life:
Identify Your Interests and Skills
Before diving into the job market, take some time to reflect on your interests, strengths, and weaknesses. Understanding what you enjoy doing and where your talents lie will make it easier to find a career path that aligns with your passions and capabilities.
Set Realistic Goals
Setting clear, achievable goals helps you stay focused and motivated throughout your career journey. Break down your aspirations into smaller, manageable steps and establish timelines to keep yourself on track.
Networking
Networking is crucial in today’s job market. Connect with professionals in your desired field through social media platforms like LinkedIn, attend industry events, and join relevant associations. Building relationships with others in your industry can lead to valuable connections and job opportunities.
Develop Your Resume and Cover Letter
Your resume and cover letter are often the first impressions potential employers have of you. Ensure that both documents are well-written, error-free, and highlight your relevant skills and experiences. Customize them for each job application to demonstrate your suitability for the position.
Prepare for Interviews
Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but proper preparation can help ease your anxiety. Research common interview questions and practice answering them out loud. Familiarize yourself with the company and the role you’re applying for, and be prepared to discuss your achievements and experiences relevant to the position.
Continuous Learning
The world of work is constantly evolving, and staying up-to-date with industry trends and advancements is essential. Invest in your professional development by attending workshops, webinars, and conferences. Pursue additional certifications or degrees if necessary to enhance your skills and remain competitive in the job market.
Be Open to Feedback
Receiving constructive feedback is an opportunity for growth and improvement. Be open to criticism and use it as a tool to refine your skills and address any weaknesses.
Maintain a Positive Attitude
Finding the right job can take time and persistence. Maintaining a positive attitude throughout the process is crucial. Keep a growth mindset and remember that each rejection brings you one step closer to the right opportunity.
Authoritative Reference Titles
CareerOneStop
- This U.S. Department of Labor resource offers career exploration tools, resume assistance, and information on job search strategies. It was used to provide general guidance on starting a career journey and identifying interests and skills.
- The professional networking platform provides access to millions of professionals across various industries. It was used as an example of an effective networking tool and a source of information on industry trends and job opportunities.
Glassdoor
- This website offers company reviews, salary information, and interview questions from current and former employees. It was used as an example of a resource for researching companies and preparing for interviews.
GOD BLESS!
James Constantine Frangos.
Rebecca Tang
Banking
1817
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. Many students have similar question. Firstly, you have to find out what careers you have interest.
Below are my suggestions:
1. Think about what you have interest, eg your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc and identify the related careers
Eg if you like music, would you like to be a musician, singer, musical artist, 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 counselor, your parents, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions:
1. Think about what you have interest, eg your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc and identify the related careers
Eg if you like music, would you like to be a musician, singer, musical artist, 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 counselor, your parents, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Marisa Fitz
CareerVillage.org TeamPartnerships Manager
21
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Marisa’s Answer, CareerVillage.org Team
Hello Destiny!
It's fantastic that you're beginning to question your future career path - that's a great first step! Don't worry about having everything sorted out right away. What's important is that you're already contemplating your professional future. My recommendation would be to really lean into things that you find interesting, like classes you take in school, random articles you stumble upon online, and activities/hobbies that you wonder if you might like. Keep asking questions about different careers you're curious about. Part of the career exploration process is finding out what you don't like, too!
It's fantastic that you're beginning to question your future career path - that's a great first step! Don't worry about having everything sorted out right away. What's important is that you're already contemplating your professional future. My recommendation would be to really lean into things that you find interesting, like classes you take in school, random articles you stumble upon online, and activities/hobbies that you wonder if you might like. Keep asking questions about different careers you're curious about. Part of the career exploration process is finding out what you don't like, too!
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
607
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
I'd recommend attending career fairs and networking like crazy. Ask people about what they do, what they like about it and what they dislike.
Keep improving yourself. Aim to be as ready to opportunities' that come your way as possible.
Ask people around you what you are good at. See if you can flip that into a career you can enjoy long-term.
Keep improving yourself. Aim to be as ready to opportunities' that come your way as possible.
Ask people around you what you are good at. See if you can flip that into a career you can enjoy long-term.