4 answers
4
Asked 1669 views

How do we know what job is best for our skillset?

I am still learning what my best skills are in life. But I want to be able to use them to the best of my ability. How can we learn more about that?

career career-counseling job job-search
Answer This
4

4 answers

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

Chinyere’s Answer

Hi Malachi!

Good question! You're ahead of the game because you're thinking about your abilities and how to apply them properly. Many people start their careers without asking the same questions you do, and that self-awareness is a huge asset in and of itself.

The first step in determining which profession best suits your skill set is to identify what those skills are. You can begin by considering activities that you enjoy and find interesting, or those you're naturally good at. Do you have good communication skills? Do you like organizing, making things, solving problems, or assisting others? Your interests and interactions with friends and family can also provide helpful insight into your talents.

After that, think about completing career or skills tests; many career centers or schools provide these for free. You can discover more about your natural abilities and potential job matches by using tools such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), CliftonStrengths, or Holland Code (RIASEC). But keep in mind that these are only recommendations. They are not intended to confine you, but to provide you with insight.

Doing is a great way to discover more about your ability set. Experiment with charity work, part-time jobs, internships, and even group projects that challenge you. You'll become more aware of your interests and your strong points as you gain more experience.

Last but not least, have conversations with friends, mentors, professors, and even professionals in industries you're interested in. Ask about their occupation, their background, and the abilities they apply on a regular basis. An outside perspective might occasionally reveal strengths you were unaware of.

You don't need to know everything at this moment. The secret is to be open-minded, curious, and willing to try new things. You'll learn where you fit in and how to apply your abilities in a way that suits you in this way.

Best wishes!
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Desislava’s Answer

At the start of my career, the first piece of advice that I got was "be pro-active". I wasn't sure what that meant at that time but it all comes with experience. As a start, use the skills that you are most confident about and remain open-minded and curious. Asking questions is always helpful. Patience is another strength that will help you develop. Learning and being successful is a process that takes time. Do not be afraid to try and do mistakes - these are lessons that will help you become a better professional.
If you have a particular interest in a business field, try to find a mentor who can share more details about it. Getting to know more about each role you are currently interested in, will support your choice in future.
Good luck!
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Chaya’s Answer

Learning is a journey that lasts a lifetime. You gain knowledge from those around you—friends, family, social media, school, and experienced coworkers. Remember Steve Jobs' words: "Stay hungry, stay foolish." This means always staying curious and open-minded. By doing this, you become flexible and strong, ready to handle any situation. Be a keen reader, a good listener, and stay present in each moment. Enjoy the adventure of life and share what you learn with others. Keep learning and growing. Wishing you all the best!
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Annah’s Answer

Malachi, great question and one I still ask myself as I go through life! I suggest you first identify your interests- any and everything you like doing now, have enjoyed in the past, and are curious about. Then look at the skills needed for such interests or qualities that match. For instance, to be an athlete you must value fitness, enjoy movement, be able to push yourself past your limits, be a team player (good communication), be flexible/spontaneous, and understand how to problem solve and work efficiently. Don't worry about careers just yet in this process; do look at what brings you joy or pleasure. Then begin to narrow things down by bringing in your values; we typically have around twelve core values that remain with us for life and other periphery values that may change or not change. You can find lists of values online for help; some examples are- spirituality, connection, honesty, and autonomy. When our interests, skills, and values match our careers we are more likely to be satisfied. This is not about perfection, and you may find your interests are varied. But hopefully once you map some of this out for yourself you will begin to see patterns or details that stand out (and might point you in a certain direction). Also consider your personality- are you an introvert, centrovert, or extrovert? What is your learning style? Any sensory considerations? There are plenty of tests you can take to give you information about your personality, but you are ultimately the one who decides what is true for you. There are also books like What Color is Your Parachute? This is a great reference for people who feel confused or stuck in making a career choice. Another source you can explore- The Enneagram (personality test). It can be useful to take such test and then process the results with a counselor, coach, or other professional/student mentor. If you are still uncertain and plan to attend college, many schools will require you to take foundational courses the first few years. This will allow you to dip into subjects you have not had the opportunity to try and to get a better sense for yourself what feels right. This process can take time, and you may pause and re-evaluate throughout your life what you want/what fits for you at any given time. Sometimes we have more choices available to us and sometimes lack of options forces us into roles or jobs out of necessity. It is okay to try different things to learn from real life what you like and do not like. Any starting place is a starting place and can teach you quite a lot. Best of luck on your unique journey!
0