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How to approach career development?
I am a rising Junior and I am curious to see what professionals view as necessities in career and personal development.
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21 answers
Updated
Jane’s Answer
Hi, Ethan! There’s no one-size-fits-all path, but there are a few steps that many professionals would likely agree are useful for both career and personal growth. First, try to get hands-on experience wherever you can. Internships, part-time jobs, volunteering, research, or even independent projects can help you to discover what types of work you enjoy and where your strengths lie. The goal isn’t to have it all figured out right away but to explore and learn from different experiences.
Next, take advantage of the resources around you. You can talk to a guidance counselor or career services at your school for personalized advice or help finding opportunities. It’s also really helpful to look at the career paths of people in roles you admire. LinkedIn is a great tool for this—most job histories are public, and you can get a sense of the steps they took to get where they are. Reaching out for short, informational interviews is another way to get real-world insight into specific fields and the skills that matter most.
Speaking of skills, it’s important to develop a strong foundation in areas that are valuable across nearly all industries. Things like communication, time management, adaptability, and collaboration are just as essential as any technical knowledge. You can build these through class projects, leadership roles, jobs, extracurriculars, or even online courses and certifications that help strengthen specific skills or add to your resume.
Career development is a process, not a race. What’s necessary is staying open to learning, being proactive in exploring your interests, and reflecting on what works for you along the way. Best of luck!
Next, take advantage of the resources around you. You can talk to a guidance counselor or career services at your school for personalized advice or help finding opportunities. It’s also really helpful to look at the career paths of people in roles you admire. LinkedIn is a great tool for this—most job histories are public, and you can get a sense of the steps they took to get where they are. Reaching out for short, informational interviews is another way to get real-world insight into specific fields and the skills that matter most.
Speaking of skills, it’s important to develop a strong foundation in areas that are valuable across nearly all industries. Things like communication, time management, adaptability, and collaboration are just as essential as any technical knowledge. You can build these through class projects, leadership roles, jobs, extracurriculars, or even online courses and certifications that help strengthen specific skills or add to your resume.
Career development is a process, not a race. What’s necessary is staying open to learning, being proactive in exploring your interests, and reflecting on what works for you along the way. Best of luck!
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Brad’s Answer
Try to take as many communication classes as you can. I learned to speak in front of small groups later in my career, and it helped me a lot. As I advanced, I spoke to larger groups more often. Good communication skills can really boost your career by letting you share your knowledge and ideas confidently and naturally.
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Wyatt’s Answer
Hello Ethan,
Continuous learning is critical; this includes gaining new skills, staying current with industry trends, and seeking feedback for growth. Effective communication and emotional intelligence are seen as essential soft skills, enabling collaboration and leadership. Public speaking and presentation skills are extremely important to become a well rounded professional. Building a strong professional network is another major factor, as it opens up opportunities and provides support throughout your career. Goal-setting—both short-term and long-term—is important for maintaining direction and motivation. Lastly, professionals stress the importance of resilience and adaptability, along with work-life balance and personal well-being, as sustainable success requires mental and physical health. Together, these elements form the foundation of long-term career fulfillment and personal growth.
Best Wishes,
Wyatt
Continuous learning is critical; this includes gaining new skills, staying current with industry trends, and seeking feedback for growth. Effective communication and emotional intelligence are seen as essential soft skills, enabling collaboration and leadership. Public speaking and presentation skills are extremely important to become a well rounded professional. Building a strong professional network is another major factor, as it opens up opportunities and provides support throughout your career. Goal-setting—both short-term and long-term—is important for maintaining direction and motivation. Lastly, professionals stress the importance of resilience and adaptability, along with work-life balance and personal well-being, as sustainable success requires mental and physical health. Together, these elements form the foundation of long-term career fulfillment and personal growth.
Best Wishes,
Wyatt
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Diane’s Answer
As you prepare yourself for a career, don't forget to practice your listening skills. Listen to learn not just to answer and don't be afraid to slow the pace a bit in interviews to ask questions that show you have done your homework on the company. We have become a more casual society in how we dress and present ourselves but dress for the job you want. Neat, modern and not too accessorized (yes this is for all genders!) You want your interviewer to concentrate on YOU and not whether they find your accessories distracting. More than anything, be enthusiastic and sure that what you may lack in experience you triple in dedication and a desire to learn and grow. Your only limits will be the ones you impose upon yourself....Get out there and make us proud!
Identify at least three careers you would like to apply your education to.
Diane recommends the following next steps:
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Philippe’s Answer
Hi Ethan,
That is an excellent question.
The ability to deliver strong presentations and speak confidently in public is a highly valuable skill. It can set you apart from others and significantly enhance your prospects when seeking employment. In my own experience, proficiency in foreign languages has opened additional doors and created unique opportunities throughout my career.
I would encourage you to immerse yourself in environments that foster these abilities. Joining groups such as debate clubs or professional sales communities on LinkedIn can be incredibly beneficial. Additionally, following individuals on LinkedIn who offer guidance and share practical tips can provide continuous learning and inspiration.
Wishing you all the best as you continue to grow.
That is an excellent question.
The ability to deliver strong presentations and speak confidently in public is a highly valuable skill. It can set you apart from others and significantly enhance your prospects when seeking employment. In my own experience, proficiency in foreign languages has opened additional doors and created unique opportunities throughout my career.
I would encourage you to immerse yourself in environments that foster these abilities. Joining groups such as debate clubs or professional sales communities on LinkedIn can be incredibly beneficial. Additionally, following individuals on LinkedIn who offer guidance and share practical tips can provide continuous learning and inspiration.
Wishing you all the best as you continue to grow.
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Adriana’s Answer
Hi Ethan,
Great question! I would argue soft skills are what define success. In terms of career development, you will hear many people tell you to be a sponge learning or to stay curious. Go beyond that to challenge your defensiveness and willingness alike. Sometimes you will be tasked with a lot at once and get frustrated or defensive to tasks that appear useless at the surface. Accept the task with grace and learn from it. Also, challenge your willingness to follow instructions to meet minimum expectations. What can you do enhance a task or add value to a process? Set your approach apart from others. Be the person people trust to take a task and make it better.
Good luck!
Great question! I would argue soft skills are what define success. In terms of career development, you will hear many people tell you to be a sponge learning or to stay curious. Go beyond that to challenge your defensiveness and willingness alike. Sometimes you will be tasked with a lot at once and get frustrated or defensive to tasks that appear useless at the surface. Accept the task with grace and learn from it. Also, challenge your willingness to follow instructions to meet minimum expectations. What can you do enhance a task or add value to a process? Set your approach apart from others. Be the person people trust to take a task and make it better.
Good luck!
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Joanne’s Answer
Taking a strategic approach to your career is key to achieving long-term success and happiness, especially in a fast-changing field like accounting and advisory. Here’s a simple plan to help guide your career growth:
Define Your Career Goals
Begin by thinking about yourself:
What are you good at? (like analyzing data, communicating, or leading)
What excites you? (such as working with clients, solving problems, or financial analysis)
Where do you see yourself in 5–10 years? (like becoming a partner at a big firm, a CFO, or an independent consultant)
Identify Skills & Knowledge Gaps
Define Your Career Goals
Begin by thinking about yourself:
What are you good at? (like analyzing data, communicating, or leading)
What excites you? (such as working with clients, solving problems, or financial analysis)
Where do you see yourself in 5–10 years? (like becoming a partner at a big firm, a CFO, or an independent consultant)
Identify Skills & Knowledge Gaps
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Dustyn’s Answer
As you begin to plan your career path, remember to stay flexible, open-minded, and curious. Employers appreciate candidates who are well-rounded, good communicators, friendly, and able to think critically. Instead of moving straight up a corporate ladder, expect to explore different paths until you find your true passion, and that's perfectly fine.
If you're a junior considering your future, get involved in activities or classes that enhance your presentation skills, both in writing and speaking. Consider volunteering to teach in youth programs, joining debate groups, or leading group projects.
Try a summer job or internship in a field that interests you. Experiment with different companies or departments. For example, if you're interested in business or marketing, offer to help a small business with their marketing efforts for free. Create and execute a plan to improve their foot traffic. This will help you discover what you enjoy and what you don't.
The most important thing is to gather as many experiences as possible. The path you start on doesn't have to be your only path. Good luck!
If you're a junior considering your future, get involved in activities or classes that enhance your presentation skills, both in writing and speaking. Consider volunteering to teach in youth programs, joining debate groups, or leading group projects.
Try a summer job or internship in a field that interests you. Experiment with different companies or departments. For example, if you're interested in business or marketing, offer to help a small business with their marketing efforts for free. Create and execute a plan to improve their foot traffic. This will help you discover what you enjoy and what you don't.
The most important thing is to gather as many experiences as possible. The path you start on doesn't have to be your only path. Good luck!
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Sierra’s Answer
Hey Ethan - really great question! One of the best things you can do throughout your career is to stay curious and open to learning. In the early stages of your career, it's the perfect time to explore; if something grabs your interest, don’t be afraid to dig in and learn more about it. These “exploratory” years are such a valuable time to figure out what excites you. Plus this curiosity will not only expand your knowledge but also help shape you into a more well-rounded professional who able to bring unique insights and strengths to your role.
A tip I’ve found helpful: hop on LinkedIn and look up people who are in your dream roles. See what their paths looked like, what skills or experiences they picked up along the way. You can do the same with job postings - look at the qualifications for positions you’d love to have someday. That can give you a clear idea of where you might want to grow next.
Hope this helps! Enjoy this excitign time in your career!
A tip I’ve found helpful: hop on LinkedIn and look up people who are in your dream roles. See what their paths looked like, what skills or experiences they picked up along the way. You can do the same with job postings - look at the qualifications for positions you’d love to have someday. That can give you a clear idea of where you might want to grow next.
Hope this helps! Enjoy this excitign time in your career!
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Cung’s Answer
Learning at least one foreign language can really boost your career. Knowing more than one can take you even further.
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Cung’s Answer
Hi Ethan,
Your future is full of exciting possibilities, and it's all about what you love to do. In college, you can pick courses that shape your career path. If you enjoy working with people, consider business management, HR, or even accounting if math is your thing. If arts are your passion, explore careers in languages, arts, or liberal arts. For those with a scientific or mathematical mind, sciences, computer science, and engineering are great options. The health field is also a strong choice with lots of opportunities. Don't forget to build your soft skills like public speaking, presenting, and communication. These will be valuable in any career you choose.
Your future is full of exciting possibilities, and it's all about what you love to do. In college, you can pick courses that shape your career path. If you enjoy working with people, consider business management, HR, or even accounting if math is your thing. If arts are your passion, explore careers in languages, arts, or liberal arts. For those with a scientific or mathematical mind, sciences, computer science, and engineering are great options. The health field is also a strong choice with lots of opportunities. Don't forget to build your soft skills like public speaking, presenting, and communication. These will be valuable in any career you choose.
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Jacky’s Answer
Hi Ethan! This might sound kind of cliche, but for good reason. Communication skills go a LONG way regardless of what career path you choose now and in the future. I think the strength of all your relationships heavily depends on your ability to communicate. I also think the better a communicator you become, the more negotiable reality becomes. In terms of career, try to learn from the best of the best!
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Ken’s Answer
Hi Ethan,
Great question. The fact that you are here shows you are eager to learn! Believe it or not that drive to improve knowledge and being open to sharing with others is a key asset. Keeping lines of communication open for others to assist or vice versa is probably a common theme you will hear. Most teams are looking for someone who is willing to participate and grow with the team (keep that in the back of your mind)
Also, I have found it quite helpful to experience as many technologies as you can to see what interest you most!
I wish you the best of luck as you venture out!
Great question. The fact that you are here shows you are eager to learn! Believe it or not that drive to improve knowledge and being open to sharing with others is a key asset. Keeping lines of communication open for others to assist or vice versa is probably a common theme you will hear. Most teams are looking for someone who is willing to participate and grow with the team (keep that in the back of your mind)
Also, I have found it quite helpful to experience as many technologies as you can to see what interest you most!
I wish you the best of luck as you venture out!
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Gail’s Answer
Hi there! It's a great idea to start by finding something you're really passionate about, something you can imagine doing for many years. Think about a career that makes you happy, even when things get tough or life changes, like moving or dealing with job loss. You want a job that keeps you smiling and lets your excitement shine through. Remember, if you love what you do, it won't feel like work at all!
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Dan’s Answer
Hi Ethan,
If advancing your career and personal development is a priority, one of the most important things you can do is stay curious and committed to continuous learning. That mindset alone will take you far.
Many organizations offer free learning resources — including online courses — that are designed to prepare you for roles within their companies. Platforms like Skillsoft, for example, provide a wide range of training solutions that support both career growth and business outcomes. These include interactive skill assessments, leadership development programs, and technical training. I’ve worked for companies that offer access to these platforms at no cost to employees, and they’ve been incredibly valuable for both sharpening current skills and preparing for career transitions.
The key is to avoid becoming stagnant. Challenge yourself daily — whether that’s by learning something new, seeking feedback, or stepping outside your comfort zone. Growth doesn’t happen by accident; it’s the result of consistent effort and a willingness to stretch.
Wishing you all the best as you continue your journey!
If advancing your career and personal development is a priority, one of the most important things you can do is stay curious and committed to continuous learning. That mindset alone will take you far.
Many organizations offer free learning resources — including online courses — that are designed to prepare you for roles within their companies. Platforms like Skillsoft, for example, provide a wide range of training solutions that support both career growth and business outcomes. These include interactive skill assessments, leadership development programs, and technical training. I’ve worked for companies that offer access to these platforms at no cost to employees, and they’ve been incredibly valuable for both sharpening current skills and preparing for career transitions.
The key is to avoid becoming stagnant. Challenge yourself daily — whether that’s by learning something new, seeking feedback, or stepping outside your comfort zone. Growth doesn’t happen by accident; it’s the result of consistent effort and a willingness to stretch.
Wishing you all the best as you continue your journey!
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Ethan,
Career development after you graduate is highly individual. In some professions, the career path is pretty clearly defined. In others you need to find your own way and define your own space.
A lot depends if you work in a small firm where you might be more of a generalist, or in a big firm, where you can be highly specialized within a team. Or maybe you'll start your own business and do everything from marketing to accounting to buying and selling to product development.
Some people have the goal to climb up the corporate ladder and end up in management. Others would rather remain in a technical specialist role.
You might want to stay in the same field all your working life, or you might want to pivot into something different.
Generally, you first job is to find out through conversations, assessments, internships and different jobs what work environment and what career level you want to aim for.
Make connections on LinkedIn. Observe, people in your field and in your company. Find out what they do and how they got there.
Find out what skills, certifications, trainings you might need to advance in your career. Inquire what advancement opportunities your company has. Let your superiors know that you are interested to move (up or sideways) so they can put your name down for internal development and promotions.
Keep an eye on the job market. What are companies looking for? What hiring trends can you identify? Make sure you are not left behind as the field develops. Get qualified in the new "thing", the new technology etc that everyone is looking for.
General skills that will always be useful in your career are soft skills, communication, people management, time management, project management etc. You also need to develop your computer skills. That might be office applications in one career, python programming in another or AI.
Lastly, if you can find a good mentor in your field who will show you the ropes, it's invaluable.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
Career development after you graduate is highly individual. In some professions, the career path is pretty clearly defined. In others you need to find your own way and define your own space.
A lot depends if you work in a small firm where you might be more of a generalist, or in a big firm, where you can be highly specialized within a team. Or maybe you'll start your own business and do everything from marketing to accounting to buying and selling to product development.
Some people have the goal to climb up the corporate ladder and end up in management. Others would rather remain in a technical specialist role.
You might want to stay in the same field all your working life, or you might want to pivot into something different.
Generally, you first job is to find out through conversations, assessments, internships and different jobs what work environment and what career level you want to aim for.
Make connections on LinkedIn. Observe, people in your field and in your company. Find out what they do and how they got there.
Find out what skills, certifications, trainings you might need to advance in your career. Inquire what advancement opportunities your company has. Let your superiors know that you are interested to move (up or sideways) so they can put your name down for internal development and promotions.
Keep an eye on the job market. What are companies looking for? What hiring trends can you identify? Make sure you are not left behind as the field develops. Get qualified in the new "thing", the new technology etc that everyone is looking for.
General skills that will always be useful in your career are soft skills, communication, people management, time management, project management etc. You also need to develop your computer skills. That might be office applications in one career, python programming in another or AI.
Lastly, if you can find a good mentor in your field who will show you the ropes, it's invaluable.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
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Isabella’s Answer
Hey there! Thinking about your career path as a high school junior is a fantastic move. It's a great chance to dig into what you love and set yourself up for awesome things down the road. Here's a laid-back but still smart way to approach it, focusing on what pros often say is super important for both your work and your life:
Get to know yourself:
What really gets you excited? What are you good at? What do you value?
Which subjects or activities make you light up?
Maybe try a personality or career quiz – they can give you some cool insights!
Explore different careers:
Look into all sorts of jobs to see what they're all about, what you'd do, and what you need to get there.
Check out career fairs, workshops, or even chat with people in fields you're curious about.
Build up your skills:
Focus on both the "techy" stuff (like computer skills) and the "people" skills (like talking to others, working in teams, or solving problems).
Join clubs, activities, or even a part-time job to develop your leadership and organizational game.
Plan your academics:
Pick classes that connect with what you might want to do later.
Aim for good grades – they open doors to colleges and scholarships.
If you can, challenge yourself with AP or honors classes.
Network it up:
Connect with mentors, teachers, and folks already in the professional world.
Join student groups or community organizations that match your interests.
Set goals and reflect:
Figure out what you want to achieve, both in the short term and the long run.
Regularly look back at your plans and tweak them as you learn and experience new things.
Work on yourself:
Develop a "growth mindset" – that means embracing challenges and learning from mistakes.
Practice managing your time and staying organized.
Don't forget to take care of your mental health and well-being!
By actively exploring your passions, honing your skills, and getting some good advice, you'll be building a solid foundation for your future career and personal growth. You got this!
Get to know yourself:
What really gets you excited? What are you good at? What do you value?
Which subjects or activities make you light up?
Maybe try a personality or career quiz – they can give you some cool insights!
Explore different careers:
Look into all sorts of jobs to see what they're all about, what you'd do, and what you need to get there.
Check out career fairs, workshops, or even chat with people in fields you're curious about.
Build up your skills:
Focus on both the "techy" stuff (like computer skills) and the "people" skills (like talking to others, working in teams, or solving problems).
Join clubs, activities, or even a part-time job to develop your leadership and organizational game.
Plan your academics:
Pick classes that connect with what you might want to do later.
Aim for good grades – they open doors to colleges and scholarships.
If you can, challenge yourself with AP or honors classes.
Network it up:
Connect with mentors, teachers, and folks already in the professional world.
Join student groups or community organizations that match your interests.
Set goals and reflect:
Figure out what you want to achieve, both in the short term and the long run.
Regularly look back at your plans and tweak them as you learn and experience new things.
Work on yourself:
Develop a "growth mindset" – that means embracing challenges and learning from mistakes.
Practice managing your time and staying organized.
Don't forget to take care of your mental health and well-being!
By actively exploring your passions, honing your skills, and getting some good advice, you'll be building a solid foundation for your future career and personal growth. You got this!
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Madhu’s Answer
Hey Ethan,
Start Learning new tools and upgrade your skills like - AI, PBI etc.. it will really help in your career.
Start Learning new tools and upgrade your skills like - AI, PBI etc.. it will really help in your career.
Updated
Vanessa’s Answer
Build connections by talking to people both inside and outside your organization. Stay in touch with your peers and maintain good relationships. Make a positive impression on others! Keep smiling!
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Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. I am glad to know that you have interest on career development.
Below are my suggestions :
1. For some professional careers, e.g. accounting, engineering, etc., there would be continuous careers development requirement that needs to meet every year to retain the qualification.
2. Read the journals and industry update regular
3. Attend industry related seminars to update your knowledge and networking
4. Put down long term (e.g. 5 years) career development plan and break it down into short-term milestones. Review the progress regular and make adjustment if necessary
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions :
1. For some professional careers, e.g. accounting, engineering, etc., there would be continuous careers development requirement that needs to meet every year to retain the qualification.
2. Read the journals and industry update regular
3. Attend industry related seminars to update your knowledge and networking
4. Put down long term (e.g. 5 years) career development plan and break it down into short-term milestones. Review the progress regular and make adjustment if necessary
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Updated
Aparna’s Answer
Hi Ethan, great question! Start by exploring yourself. Know your short-term and long-term goals, and make sure they match your interests, not just what seems best. What do you love doing? Focus on actions that deepen your involvement in those areas.
Keep learning. No matter how far you go in your career, never stop gaining knowledge. Learn from peers, colleagues, professors, and mentors. If you're in tech, stay updated on trends, tools, and best practices to remain relevant and skilled. Always stay curious.
Develop strong communication skills. They are essential for building your career and network. No matter how much you know, it's useless if you can't share it effectively. Maintain relationships with industry professionals to open future opportunities.
Focus on discipline. Time management and consistency are vital for achieving tough goals. Motivation is great, but discipline helps you work hard every day. If you're a student, develop good study habits now to benefit your future professional life.
Lastly, have fun! Success is important, but your mental well-being is crucial. Maintain a healthy work-life balance to avoid burnout. Always remember who you are and what you're passionate about!
Keep learning. No matter how far you go in your career, never stop gaining knowledge. Learn from peers, colleagues, professors, and mentors. If you're in tech, stay updated on trends, tools, and best practices to remain relevant and skilled. Always stay curious.
Develop strong communication skills. They are essential for building your career and network. No matter how much you know, it's useless if you can't share it effectively. Maintain relationships with industry professionals to open future opportunities.
Focus on discipline. Time management and consistency are vital for achieving tough goals. Motivation is great, but discipline helps you work hard every day. If you're a student, develop good study habits now to benefit your future professional life.
Lastly, have fun! Success is important, but your mental well-being is crucial. Maintain a healthy work-life balance to avoid burnout. Always remember who you are and what you're passionate about!