Skip to main content
7 answers
7
Asked 996 views

What is a good way to career plan?

Who should I ask? Where to look? How to start?

+25 Karma if successful
From: You
To: Friend
Subject: Career question for you

7

7 answers


0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Elizabeth (Betsy)’s Answer

Jesse,

These are all great responses, and I hope that you realize that with both thought and planning, you can establish yourself in any career that you wish.

I would only add to this by suggesting that you also remain flexible, because your life, your circumstances and your interests may change over time. So you may need to revisit your thinking here, as you consider changing your career plan. I have changed my career plan a few times since I left school, and each time, it was a bit scary and exciting, because I was starting in a new direction. But through this process, I have grown as a person, expanded my professional experience and learned many new things. Don't be scared of change, it can bring wonderful experiences that you didn't think of before.
Good luck.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

James Constantine’s Answer

Dear Jesse,

Comprehensive Guide to Career Planning

Introduction to Career Planning: The process of career planning is pivotal, as it involves the establishment of personal career objectives and the identification of the route to accomplish them. It aids individuals in making enlightened decisions about their career growth and progression. To plan your career effectively, you need to conduct a self-evaluation, explore various career alternatives, set achievable goals, and devise a strategic plan to fulfill those goals.

Steps for Effective Career Planning:

Self-Assessment: The initial step in career planning is to evaluate your interests, values, abilities, and personality characteristics. A deeper understanding of yourself will assist you in identifying suitable career trajectories that match your strengths and preferences.

Exploring Career Options: Investigate different sectors, job roles, and organizations to gain a deeper understanding of various career possibilities. Take into account factors such as job prospects, potential earnings, workplace environment, and opportunities for advancement.

Goal Setting: Establish short-term and long-term career objectives based on your dreams and ambitions. Your goals should be specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).

Plan Development: Formulate a comprehensive action plan detailing the steps required to attain your career objectives. This might entail acquiring new skills, gaining relevant experience, networking with professionals in your sector, or pursuing additional education if needed.

Seeking Guidance: It's crucial to seek advice from career advisors, mentors, or professionals in your chosen field. They can offer valuable insights, recommendations, and support to help you effectively navigate your career trajectory.

Who to Consult for Career Planning Advice:

Career Counselors: Professional career advisors are skilled in helping individuals explore career alternatives, set objectives, and devise strategies for career progression.

Mentors: Seasoned professionals in your sector can provide valuable advice based on their own career experiences. They can offer insights into industry trends, networking opportunities, and practical tips for advancing your career.

Networking Contacts: Connect with professionals in your network who have expertise in your chosen field. Networking can assist you in obtaining valuable advice, referrals, and insights into potential job opportunities.

Where to Find Career Planning Resources:

Career Development Websites: Websites such as LinkedIn Learning, Indeed Career Guide, and My Next Move provide a plethora of resources on career planning, job search strategies, resume creation, and interview preparation.

Professional Associations: Membership in industry-specific professional associations can grant access to networking events, workshops, webinars, and resources tailored to your field of interest.

University Career Centers: If you're a student or recent graduate, your university's career center can offer services like career assessments, resume critiques, mock interviews, job fairs, and employer connections.

How to Initiate Your Career Planning Journey:

Start by conducting an in-depth self-assessment to pinpoint your strengths, interests, values, and objectives.
Investigate various career alternatives that align with your abilities and aspirations.
Seek advice from career advisors, mentors, or professionals in your chosen field.
Create a clear action plan with specific steps to attain your career objectives.
Remain proactive in networking with industry professionals and staying informed on industry trends.

By adhering to these steps and seeking advice from the appropriate sources, you can establish a robust foundation for effective career planning and progression.

Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:

The Balance Careers: The Balance Careers is a reputable online resource offering expert advice on various aspects of career development, including job search tips, resume writing guides, and career planning strategies.

Indeed Career Guide: Indeed is a renowned job search platform that provides a comprehensive Career Guide section with articles on resume creation techniques, interview preparation tips, and career planning advice.

National Career Development Association (NCDA): NCDA is a professional association committed to promoting career development through resources such as webinars, publications, conferences, and tools for both individuals seeking guidance and professionals in the field of career counseling.

These sources have been crucial in providing accurate and reliable information on effective career planning strategies and resources for individuals seeking guidance in their professional development journey.

May God Bless You!
James Constantine Frangos.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Jerome’s Answer

Begin with listing things out that you enjoy doing. Then ask people what they think you'd be good at in terms of a career.

What classes did you get good grades in? Maybe there is something there.

Join clubs and explore new things at this point in your life! My oldest went to a single meeting for a theater group and now he helps build sets and has helped with numerous stage productions. I am not sure that he will stick with this forever, but he is learning a TON and seems to be enjoying it. You never know how exploring something could go a long way.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Patrick’s Answer

Planning your career is a crucial step that can guide you towards a successful professional life. To kickstart this process, it's important to start with a comprehensive self-evaluation. This means pinpointing your interests, values, strengths, and areas for improvement. By recognizing what you love doing, what you're good at, and what you hold dear, you can identify suitable career paths that align with your ambitions and objectives.

After gaining a solid understanding of your personal traits and abilities, it's time to delve into various career opportunities that match your profile. You can do this by conducting thorough research using both digital and traditional resources. Online platforms like career evaluation tools, job hunting websites, and professional networking sites can offer useful insights into diverse sectors, job roles, and necessary qualifications. Moreover, you can tap into offline resources like books, industry journals, and informational chats with professionals in your areas of interest to deepen your understanding of specific careers.

As you explore different career possibilities, it's vital to seek advice from seasoned professionals and mentors. Begin by consulting your academic advisors, lecturers, or career services counselors at your educational institution. These individuals can offer invaluable guidance, resources, and support throughout your career planning journey. Also, consider networking with professionals in your preferred industries through informational interviews or networking events. By garnering advice from those with firsthand experience in your chosen field, you can gain a better understanding of industry trends, job prerequisites, and potential career trajectories.

Moreover, it's important to actively pursue opportunities to gain practical experience in your chosen field. This can be achieved through internships, volunteering, or part-time jobs. These experiences not only equip you with valuable hands-on skills but also help you establish a professional network and familiarize yourself with various facets of your chosen industry. Additionally, attending career-related workshops, seminars, or online courses can further boost your knowledge and skills, making you a strong contender in the job market.

In conclusion, effective career planning encompasses self-evaluation, career exploration, seeking advice from experienced professionals, gaining practical experience, and continuous learning and adaptation to industry changes. By adhering to these steps and maintaining an active role in your career growth, you can lay the foundation for a rewarding and successful professional journey.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Rebecca’s Answer

Thank you for your question. Many students have similar question. The most important is to find out the career you have interest.
Below are my suggestions :
1. Think about what you have interest, e.g. your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc. and identify the related careers
E.g. 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 colleges
6. Upon graduation, you can develop a long term career plan and breakdown into short term milestones. Review the progress and the plan regularly. Make adjustment if necessary.
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Thiago’s Answer

Hello Jesse,

Embarking on your career journey begins with a crucial step—exploring your own interests, abilities, and values. Once you've discovered these, delve into learning about careers that resonate with your self-understanding. Engage in conversations with career advisors, established professionals in your chosen field, and mentors to gain personalized guidance and unique perspectives. Utilize resources like job boards, corporate websites, and professional organizations to gather valuable information.

Start by laying out clear, achievable objectives, and then strive to gain hands-on experience through internships or volunteering opportunities. Networking is key in forging professional connections that could open up new paths for you. Make it a priority to consistently enhance your skills to reach your career aspirations and don't hesitate to reassess your plan to accommodate any shifts in your interests or changes in the job landscape.

Always remember, career planning isn't a one-time event but a dynamic process that grows and changes as you do. So, embrace the journey with enthusiasm and determination!

Thiago recommends the following next steps:

Set Goals: Based on your research and self-assessment, set short-term and long-term career goals. Be specific about what you want to achieve and by when.
Gain Experience: Look for internships, volunteer opportunities, part-time jobs, or projects that can give you relevant experience and skills.
Network: Build and maintain professional relationships through networking events, social media, and professional organizations. Networking can open doors to opportunities and provide support.
Develop Skills: Identify any gaps in your skills or qualifications and find ways to develop these areas, through online courses, workshops, or further education.
Review and Adjust: Regularly review your career plan to reflect on your progress and adjust your goals and strategies as needed. Your interests and the job market may change, so be adaptable.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

A. Michelle’s Answer

The process starts with you. Think about what topics and activities interest you, skills you possess and areas you would be interested in developing. There are numerous online tools that can help you build dentist potential career fields. Select a few and learn more about those fields and professions through online research, talking to people you know who work in those fields and/or attending career panels. Be sure to leverage your network. You might not know someone working as a veterinarian, for example, but a friend, teacher or relative is likely to know someone. Determine the requirements for the profession and the employment prospect, but also the pros and cons of working in the field.
0