20 answers
Autumn
Student
Delavan, Wisconsin
1
Question
Asked
889 views
What if you don't know what you wanna do as a career?
I have no Idea what career I want to do.
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20 answers
Jasmine Fly, M.S.
Learning + Enrichment Program Delivery Specialist
8
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Jasmine’s Answer
Answer provided by a new hire cohort at Cloudera:
>Think about what you really interested in
>Do some research about more detail of it
>Discuss with the expert in that field or work with a coach
>Figure out the steps how to be there
>Online instruction
>Work with someone
>Pay for coach
>Think about what you really interested in
>Do some research about more detail of it
>Discuss with the expert in that field or work with a coach
>Figure out the steps how to be there
>Online instruction
>Work with someone
>Pay for coach
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3755
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Greetings, Autumn from Delavan, WI! This is James from Australia, and I'm here to assist you with your query about career choices.
If you're unsure about your future career or have no idea what you want to do, don't worry. Many people experience such uncertainty when it comes to deciding on a career path.
The sensation of not knowing which way to go can be daunting and frustrating, but there are several steps you can take to uncover your interests, abilities, and passions. Here are some strategies to consider:
1. Self-reflection: Spend some time contemplating your interests, values, and strengths. Think about what activities or subjects make you feel excited and involved. Reflect on what you love doing in your spare time or the subjects that you're always researching or reading. Recognizing your passions and strengths can offer valuable insights into potential career paths.
2. Explore various options: Investigate different industries, job roles, and professions that match your interests and skills. Seek opportunities to gain exposure and experience in different fields through internships, volunteering, or part-time jobs. This can help you understand what each career involves and whether it aligns with your interests.
3. Seek advice: Connect with career counselors, mentors, or professionals in fields that interest you. They can offer valuable insights, advice, and guidance based on their experiences. Networking events or informational interviews can also help deepen your understanding of different careers.
4. Try new experiences: Be open to trying new things and stepping out of your comfort zone. Engage in new hobbies or join clubs or organizations related to areas that interest you. This can broaden your perspective and introduce you to new possibilities.
5. Consider further education: If you have a vague idea of the field or industry you're interested in but need more specific knowledge or skills, consider pursuing further education or training. This could be through attending college or university, enrolling in vocational programs, or taking online courses.
6. Embrace trial and error: Remember, choosing a career is not a one-time decision. It's a process that may involve trial and error. Don't be afraid to try different paths and make adjustments as you go. Each experience can provide valuable insights and help you refine your career goals.
7. Use career assessment tools: There are numerous online career assessment tools that can help you identify your strengths, interests, and potential career matches. These tools often use questionnaires or assessments to provide personalized recommendations based on your responses.
Remember, finding the right career path takes time and exploration. It's okay to feel uncertain or undecided at times. By taking proactive steps to explore your interests, seek advice, and gain experience, you can increase your chances of finding a fulfilling career that aligns with your passions and values.
Here are the top three authoritative reference publications:
1. Harvard Business Review - www.hbr.org
2. Forbes - www.forbes.com
3. The Balance Careers - www.thebalancecareers.com
And some organic web results that might be helpful:
1. ca.indeed.com - "I Have No Idea What I Want to Be": Finding a Career Path
2. www.indeed.com - I Don't Know What Career I Want
3. ripplematch.com - What to Do if You Don't Know What Career Path to Choose
I hope this helps, and may God bless you!
If you're unsure about your future career or have no idea what you want to do, don't worry. Many people experience such uncertainty when it comes to deciding on a career path.
The sensation of not knowing which way to go can be daunting and frustrating, but there are several steps you can take to uncover your interests, abilities, and passions. Here are some strategies to consider:
1. Self-reflection: Spend some time contemplating your interests, values, and strengths. Think about what activities or subjects make you feel excited and involved. Reflect on what you love doing in your spare time or the subjects that you're always researching or reading. Recognizing your passions and strengths can offer valuable insights into potential career paths.
2. Explore various options: Investigate different industries, job roles, and professions that match your interests and skills. Seek opportunities to gain exposure and experience in different fields through internships, volunteering, or part-time jobs. This can help you understand what each career involves and whether it aligns with your interests.
3. Seek advice: Connect with career counselors, mentors, or professionals in fields that interest you. They can offer valuable insights, advice, and guidance based on their experiences. Networking events or informational interviews can also help deepen your understanding of different careers.
4. Try new experiences: Be open to trying new things and stepping out of your comfort zone. Engage in new hobbies or join clubs or organizations related to areas that interest you. This can broaden your perspective and introduce you to new possibilities.
5. Consider further education: If you have a vague idea of the field or industry you're interested in but need more specific knowledge or skills, consider pursuing further education or training. This could be through attending college or university, enrolling in vocational programs, or taking online courses.
6. Embrace trial and error: Remember, choosing a career is not a one-time decision. It's a process that may involve trial and error. Don't be afraid to try different paths and make adjustments as you go. Each experience can provide valuable insights and help you refine your career goals.
7. Use career assessment tools: There are numerous online career assessment tools that can help you identify your strengths, interests, and potential career matches. These tools often use questionnaires or assessments to provide personalized recommendations based on your responses.
Remember, finding the right career path takes time and exploration. It's okay to feel uncertain or undecided at times. By taking proactive steps to explore your interests, seek advice, and gain experience, you can increase your chances of finding a fulfilling career that aligns with your passions and values.
Here are the top three authoritative reference publications:
1. Harvard Business Review - www.hbr.org
2. Forbes - www.forbes.com
3. The Balance Careers - www.thebalancecareers.com
And some organic web results that might be helpful:
1. ca.indeed.com - "I Have No Idea What I Want to Be": Finding a Career Path
2. www.indeed.com - I Don't Know What Career I Want
3. ripplematch.com - What to Do if You Don't Know What Career Path to Choose
I hope this helps, and may God bless you!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3755
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Autumn,
Exploring Career Options When You’re Unsure
It’s completely normal to feel uncertain about your career path, especially when there are so many options available. Here are some steps you can take to explore different career options and find a path that suits your interests and skills.
Self-Assessment
Start by conducting a self-assessment to identify your strengths, weaknesses, interests, and values. There are various online tools and assessments that can help you gain insight into your personality type, work preferences, and aptitudes. Understanding yourself better can provide clarity on the types of careers that may be a good fit for you.
Research Different Industries and Roles
Take the time to research different industries and job roles. This can involve reading about various professions, talking to professionals in different fields, and exploring job descriptions to understand the responsibilities and requirements of different positions. Consider what aspects of certain roles appeal to you and align with your skills and interests.
Gain Practical Experience
Consider gaining practical experience through internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer work. This hands-on experience can provide valuable insights into different industries and roles, helping you determine whether a particular career path is a good fit for you.
Networking
Networking with professionals in various fields can provide valuable perspectives and insights. Reach out to individuals working in careers that interest you and ask if you can conduct informational interviews to learn more about their experiences and the nature of their work. Networking can also open doors to potential opportunities in the future.
Seek Guidance from Career Counselors
Career counselors are trained professionals who can provide guidance and support in exploring career options. They can help you navigate the process of identifying potential career paths based on your interests, skills, and values. Additionally, they may offer resources such as career assessments and workshops to aid in your decision-making process.
Further Education
If there are specific careers that interest you but require additional education or training, consider pursuing further education. This could involve enrolling in courses, obtaining certifications, or pursuing a degree in a field that aligns with your career interests.
Remain Open-Minded
It’s important to remain open-minded throughout this exploration process. Your interests and priorities may evolve over time, so it’s okay to explore different paths before committing to a specific career.
Remember that it’s okay not to have all the answers right away. Exploring different career options is a journey that takes time and self-reflection. By taking proactive steps to assess your strengths, research various industries, gain practical experience, network with professionals, seek guidance from career counselors, consider further education, and remain open-minded, you can gradually narrow down your options and make informed decisions about your future career path.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
The Balance Careers: This source provides comprehensive articles on career exploration, self-assessment tools, industry insights, networking tips, and guidance from career counselors.
Indeed Career Guide: Indeed offers valuable resources on researching different industries and roles, gaining practical experience through internships or volunteer work, as well as networking advice.
The Muse: The Muse offers insights on self-assessment tools for identifying strengths and interests, along with articles on further education options and remaining open-minded during the career exploration process.
Don't forget to read my autobiography, "About James Constantine," "What I Do At Work," paying close attention to the foods that provide all the essential nutrients for effective performance studying. These are brain nutrients, like the amino acids, to function adequately, the central nervous system (CNS) requires several amino acids found in protein foods.
Amino acids such as tryptophan, tyrosine, histidine, and arginine are used by the brain for the synthesis of various neurotransmitters and neuromodulators. The B complex vitamins, Thiamine, Riboflavin, Niacin, Adenine, Pantothenic Acid, Pyridoxine, Cyanocobalamin, Folate, Inositol, Choline, and the minerals magnesium and zinc are essential.
Sugar is not required.
Fish and cod liver oil will crown it off nicely. Docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid are essential for neurons in the brain. Do it justice; You are divine never forget that! We need to make series three prostaglandins which are anti-inflammatory.
You might discover that you can accomplish twice as much academic work in half the time. Your energy is massive and your performance in exams and assignments will also impress the academe. You will improve significantly, especially if your diet is repleted. Replenishing missing nutrients can do wonders. So can high distinctions! It is metabolic and medical biochemistry!
GOD BLESS YOU RICHLY, AMEN,
James Constantine Frangos.
Exploring Career Options When You’re Unsure
It’s completely normal to feel uncertain about your career path, especially when there are so many options available. Here are some steps you can take to explore different career options and find a path that suits your interests and skills.
Self-Assessment
Start by conducting a self-assessment to identify your strengths, weaknesses, interests, and values. There are various online tools and assessments that can help you gain insight into your personality type, work preferences, and aptitudes. Understanding yourself better can provide clarity on the types of careers that may be a good fit for you.
Research Different Industries and Roles
Take the time to research different industries and job roles. This can involve reading about various professions, talking to professionals in different fields, and exploring job descriptions to understand the responsibilities and requirements of different positions. Consider what aspects of certain roles appeal to you and align with your skills and interests.
Gain Practical Experience
Consider gaining practical experience through internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer work. This hands-on experience can provide valuable insights into different industries and roles, helping you determine whether a particular career path is a good fit for you.
Networking
Networking with professionals in various fields can provide valuable perspectives and insights. Reach out to individuals working in careers that interest you and ask if you can conduct informational interviews to learn more about their experiences and the nature of their work. Networking can also open doors to potential opportunities in the future.
Seek Guidance from Career Counselors
Career counselors are trained professionals who can provide guidance and support in exploring career options. They can help you navigate the process of identifying potential career paths based on your interests, skills, and values. Additionally, they may offer resources such as career assessments and workshops to aid in your decision-making process.
Further Education
If there are specific careers that interest you but require additional education or training, consider pursuing further education. This could involve enrolling in courses, obtaining certifications, or pursuing a degree in a field that aligns with your career interests.
Remain Open-Minded
It’s important to remain open-minded throughout this exploration process. Your interests and priorities may evolve over time, so it’s okay to explore different paths before committing to a specific career.
Remember that it’s okay not to have all the answers right away. Exploring different career options is a journey that takes time and self-reflection. By taking proactive steps to assess your strengths, research various industries, gain practical experience, network with professionals, seek guidance from career counselors, consider further education, and remain open-minded, you can gradually narrow down your options and make informed decisions about your future career path.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
The Balance Careers: This source provides comprehensive articles on career exploration, self-assessment tools, industry insights, networking tips, and guidance from career counselors.
Indeed Career Guide: Indeed offers valuable resources on researching different industries and roles, gaining practical experience through internships or volunteer work, as well as networking advice.
The Muse: The Muse offers insights on self-assessment tools for identifying strengths and interests, along with articles on further education options and remaining open-minded during the career exploration process.
Don't forget to read my autobiography, "About James Constantine," "What I Do At Work," paying close attention to the foods that provide all the essential nutrients for effective performance studying. These are brain nutrients, like the amino acids, to function adequately, the central nervous system (CNS) requires several amino acids found in protein foods.
Amino acids such as tryptophan, tyrosine, histidine, and arginine are used by the brain for the synthesis of various neurotransmitters and neuromodulators. The B complex vitamins, Thiamine, Riboflavin, Niacin, Adenine, Pantothenic Acid, Pyridoxine, Cyanocobalamin, Folate, Inositol, Choline, and the minerals magnesium and zinc are essential.
Sugar is not required.
Fish and cod liver oil will crown it off nicely. Docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid are essential for neurons in the brain. Do it justice; You are divine never forget that! We need to make series three prostaglandins which are anti-inflammatory.
You might discover that you can accomplish twice as much academic work in half the time. Your energy is massive and your performance in exams and assignments will also impress the academe. You will improve significantly, especially if your diet is repleted. Replenishing missing nutrients can do wonders. So can high distinctions! It is metabolic and medical biochemistry!
GOD BLESS YOU RICHLY, AMEN,
James Constantine Frangos.
Misha D'Andrea
Learning + Development
18
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Misha’s Answer
Ask yourself - am I happy?
Ask people - what drives them at work?
Shadow people
Research + explore what's out there - does something else sound more interesting and fulfilling? Try different things, see what you like and dont like. You can always make a change later on.
Courtesy of Cloudera new hires: Joseph, Alejandro, Gianpaolo, Marcus, Garrett, and Bin
Discuss with your manager options, are there internal growth opportunities?
Reach out to interesting roles across the company
Seek a mentor
Ask Questions, Have a 1 on 1 with someone in the position you are looking to work.
Work on something in a different fields to gain experience
Ask people - what drives them at work?
Shadow people
Research + explore what's out there - does something else sound more interesting and fulfilling? Try different things, see what you like and dont like. You can always make a change later on.
Courtesy of Cloudera new hires: Joseph, Alejandro, Gianpaolo, Marcus, Garrett, and Bin
Misha recommends the following next steps:
Mandy L
Tech
3
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Mandy’s Answer
That's completely okay! It's important to take your time when considering such a big decision, and it's not something that comes easily for many. And it's also okay to change your mind and try out something different if you find that the career you originally were interested in isn't what you expected. Think about what brings you passion, makes you feel fulfilled, and brings you happiness - and try to relate those to skills you already have or can learn. I think a big part of having a successful career is finding one that you really enjoy and love :) Look into internships, volunteering, or shadowing opportunities that can help give you more insight into any of your interests. Reach out to others who are in that career already and ask questions you're curious about. Remember that every person has their own unique journey and try to not focus too much on the amount of time it takes you to get there!
Thanks for the advice.
Autumn
Erin Berg
Software implementation
3
Answers
Lakeville, Minnesota
Updated
Erin’s Answer
Select a degree that piques your interest, but remember it's not a binding contract. Stay flexible and open to new experiences that may come your way. Use your passions and hobbies as a compass to guide your career path.
Create a list of your likes and dislikes.
Aim to gain some real-world experience. Consider taking a job that may not be your dream role but offers a stepping stone into the industry. Be open-minded and willing to learn, and see where this journey leads.
Don't burden yourself with the pressure of having it all figured out. It's okay not to know exactly what you want to do right off the bat. As you tread along your chosen path, you might discover a different direction that suits you better. Be ready to pivot when necessary.
Make networking a priority. Engage in conversations with others you encounter in your field. These interactions could open doors to opportunities you never imagined.
Create a list of your likes and dislikes.
Aim to gain some real-world experience. Consider taking a job that may not be your dream role but offers a stepping stone into the industry. Be open-minded and willing to learn, and see where this journey leads.
Don't burden yourself with the pressure of having it all figured out. It's okay not to know exactly what you want to do right off the bat. As you tread along your chosen path, you might discover a different direction that suits you better. Be ready to pivot when necessary.
Make networking a priority. Engage in conversations with others you encounter in your field. These interactions could open doors to opportunities you never imagined.
Chuqi Zhen
Software Engineer
15
Answers
Weehawken, New Jersey
Updated
Chuqi’s Answer
Absolutely, there's no rush at all. Feel free to explore all the possibilities out there. Begin with what brings you joy everyday, then consider your strengths or subjects you excel in. Jot these down, and you'll start to see some potential paths emerge. Connect with individuals who are already in these fields, or even better, secure an internship to gain firsthand experience of what these careers entail. Step by step, you'll find yourself getting nearer to your answer.
Mohini Mistry
Account Executive
3
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Mohini’s Answer
No worries! Here's a proactive plan: Start by investing ample time in exploring various careers online. Identify the ones that align with your passions. Then, investigate the educational requirements for those jobs. Evaluate if these requirements match your future life and lifestyle aspirations. I chose my career path after college graduation. I applied to several job roles that seemed appealing to me. Once I experienced them firsthand, I realized they were a perfect fit. Remember, you won't truly understand a role until you've tried it!
Sara McCann
Sales Manager
2
Answers
Denver, Colorado
Updated
Sara’s Answer
That's ok! I changed my major 4 times in college, and now have a wonderful career! When you are young it feels nearly impossible to know what you want to do for the rest of your life, and really it is impossible. I ended up getting a communications degree thinking I wanted to be a news anchor, but then ended up working in technology sales. What I gained in college was invaluable when it came to communication skills, social skills, learning independence, hard work, etc - my major didn't really matter as my career is not really related. Even once you choose a career, many people make multiple career shifts in life. There is no set path, you can choose your own.
Tonya Russell, MA
Sales
2
Answers
Oakland, California
Updated
Tonya’s Answer
Take your time, there's no need to hurry. Reflect on what truly brings you joy and fulfillment. If you have a passion for creating, possibilities are endless - you could become an engineer, a fashion designer, or even a baker. If you find happiness in the world of words, you could pursue a career as a proofreader, editor, writer, or journalist. Remember, your passion can pave the path to your profession.
Asim Farhat
Account Executive
12
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Asim’s Answer
I would usually begin by identifying your where you are in your journey, qualifications, interests etc. If you're unsure about your career path, here are some actionable steps to help you discover your ideal profession:
1. Compile a list of your abilities, strengths, interests, and passions. Reflect on what you enjoy and what you want from life. Understanding yourself better will guide you towards a career that complements your lifestyle and fosters personal growth.
2. Distinguish your academic achievements from your career aspirations. Recognize your core skills and memorable positive experiences. These will be beneficial when researching potential employers and perusing job descriptions. If you're in your final year of study, consider internship opportunities.
3. Utilize online career assessments. These tools can help pinpoint your strengths and interests, and recommend suitable career paths.
4. Dedicate time to investigate various careers and industries. Understand what they involve and the skills and qualifications they demand.
5. Pose questions to yourself such as: What do I enjoy doing in my spare time? Which extracurricular activities am I attracted to? Why do I want to work?
6. Connect with a professional in a field that piques your interest. Ask if they could mentor you or offer advice.
7. Experiment with different activities. Volunteer, engage in side jobs, or participate in informational interviews to explore your interests and acquire experience.
Remember, you're young and these steps are part of your journey. Embrace new experiences and challenges, and don't fear taking risks or trying new things. Always keep asking yourself: What if all my bills are paid and I dont have to worry about money and no matter what i do i wont get money, what would I do with my time?
Hope that helps.
1. Compile a list of your abilities, strengths, interests, and passions. Reflect on what you enjoy and what you want from life. Understanding yourself better will guide you towards a career that complements your lifestyle and fosters personal growth.
2. Distinguish your academic achievements from your career aspirations. Recognize your core skills and memorable positive experiences. These will be beneficial when researching potential employers and perusing job descriptions. If you're in your final year of study, consider internship opportunities.
3. Utilize online career assessments. These tools can help pinpoint your strengths and interests, and recommend suitable career paths.
4. Dedicate time to investigate various careers and industries. Understand what they involve and the skills and qualifications they demand.
5. Pose questions to yourself such as: What do I enjoy doing in my spare time? Which extracurricular activities am I attracted to? Why do I want to work?
6. Connect with a professional in a field that piques your interest. Ask if they could mentor you or offer advice.
7. Experiment with different activities. Volunteer, engage in side jobs, or participate in informational interviews to explore your interests and acquire experience.
Remember, you're young and these steps are part of your journey. Embrace new experiences and challenges, and don't fear taking risks or trying new things. Always keep asking yourself: What if all my bills are paid and I dont have to worry about money and no matter what i do i wont get money, what would I do with my time?
Hope that helps.
Rebecca Tang
Banking
1512
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. Manu students have similar question. You are the best person to tell what careers 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, singer, music composer, musical artist, 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
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
E.g. If you like music, would you like to be a musician, singer, music composer, musical artist, 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
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
Thank you so much, Rebecca!
Autumn
Monica Chin
Talent Sourcer
2
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Monica’s Answer
Hi Autumn,
I know it can sometimes feel like you need to have a concrete plan for your future, but I can assure you that it’s completely okay to not know what you want to do. It’s a big decision, so there’s no need to rush to find an answer. (In all honesty, I’m still figuring it out as well!)
With time and experience, you’ll start to get a better understanding of what you enjoy and what you want to do with you time. So remember, you don’t have to stick with one career path if you realize it isn’t the right fit for you down the line. I know many people who have made career changes (me included). There are so many different careers in the world, and I’m sure there are many different paths that you can take where you’d be happy! So as a reminder – there is no single path, and there is no single answer.
That being said, you should try to think about your interests, passions, strengths and weaknesses. Think about what excites you, and what doesn’t. There's no wrong answer.
There are also a lot of other factors you can consider, like:
- Are you creative?
- Do you get excited by numbers?
- Do you like talking to people?
- Do you want to work at a desk all day or do you want to be active?
- Do you like working in a team setting or working independently?
You can also explore different internships and volunteering opportunities. Hands on experience is a great way to see what you like, because sometimes you might think you’ll like something, but once you do it, it isn’t exactly what you imagined. And vice versa!
I think being here on Career Village is also a great start for you! There are lots of people here from every career field. If you find jobs that you might be interested, I’m sure the community will be more than happy to provide details and explain what their jobs entail!
Wishing you the best of luck on your journey :)
I know it can sometimes feel like you need to have a concrete plan for your future, but I can assure you that it’s completely okay to not know what you want to do. It’s a big decision, so there’s no need to rush to find an answer. (In all honesty, I’m still figuring it out as well!)
With time and experience, you’ll start to get a better understanding of what you enjoy and what you want to do with you time. So remember, you don’t have to stick with one career path if you realize it isn’t the right fit for you down the line. I know many people who have made career changes (me included). There are so many different careers in the world, and I’m sure there are many different paths that you can take where you’d be happy! So as a reminder – there is no single path, and there is no single answer.
That being said, you should try to think about your interests, passions, strengths and weaknesses. Think about what excites you, and what doesn’t. There's no wrong answer.
There are also a lot of other factors you can consider, like:
- Are you creative?
- Do you get excited by numbers?
- Do you like talking to people?
- Do you want to work at a desk all day or do you want to be active?
- Do you like working in a team setting or working independently?
You can also explore different internships and volunteering opportunities. Hands on experience is a great way to see what you like, because sometimes you might think you’ll like something, but once you do it, it isn’t exactly what you imagined. And vice versa!
I think being here on Career Village is also a great start for you! There are lots of people here from every career field. If you find jobs that you might be interested, I’m sure the community will be more than happy to provide details and explain what their jobs entail!
Wishing you the best of luck on your journey :)
Thank you for the advice.
Autumn
Janis Ransom
Resume Writer, Interview Coach and Career Strategy Consultant
23
Answers
Indianapolis, Indiana
Updated
Janis’s Answer
Attend a local career fair and you will have the opportunity to meet a variety of people who are involved in and pursuing different careers .Many local local and regional Chamber of Commerce organizations hold career fairs that you can attend. It would be an excellent opportunity to meet and speak to professionals pursuing careers in your areas of interest.
Michel Bouman
Sr. Solution Specialist Lead for Teams Devices
7
Answers
Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands
Updated
Michel’s Answer
Hi Autumn, you do as many things as you can probably think of to see what interests you. You have no rush and it is absolutely fine if you have no idea what you want with your career. Maybe reach out to some professionals and ask them if you can shadow them for a day, take on some voluntary roles, try starting a business to see if you have any interest to be an entrepreneur or not, etc. Take your time. You got this!
eloise walsh
Senior Director, Recruiting EMEA
2
Answers
Upper Basildon, England
Updated
eloise’s Answer
I'm really enjoying all these comments. Remember, it's okay not to have all the answers right away, so don't stress about figuring out your exact career path just yet.
I highly recommend reaching out to as many people as you can to learn about their jobs. Find out what they do, what they enjoy, and what they don't - let your curiosity guide you. Make good use of the internet, this forum, career fairs, and even chatGPT to gather as much information as possible.
I'm fortunate to have an amazing job at a top-notch tech company. My journey began when I was approached for a position at a recruitment agency. It was there that I discovered my passion for interacting with people, matching candidates with their ideal jobs, and promoting roles. This eventually led me to an opportunity within a tech company where I could do everything I loved.
It's fantastic that you're utilizing this forum - keep an open mind, stay curious, and never hesitate to ask questions!
I highly recommend reaching out to as many people as you can to learn about their jobs. Find out what they do, what they enjoy, and what they don't - let your curiosity guide you. Make good use of the internet, this forum, career fairs, and even chatGPT to gather as much information as possible.
I'm fortunate to have an amazing job at a top-notch tech company. My journey began when I was approached for a position at a recruitment agency. It was there that I discovered my passion for interacting with people, matching candidates with their ideal jobs, and promoting roles. This eventually led me to an opportunity within a tech company where I could do everything I loved.
It's fantastic that you're utilizing this forum - keep an open mind, stay curious, and never hesitate to ask questions!
Misha D'Andrea
Learning + Development
18
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Misha’s Answer
Ask yourself - am I happy?
Ask people - what drives them at work?
Shadow people
Research + explore what's out there - does something else sound more interesting and fulfilling?
Courtesy of Cloudera new hires: Joseph, Alejandro, and Gianpaolo
Discuss with your manager options, are there internal growth opportunities?
Reach out to interesting roles across the company
Seek a mentor
Ask people - what drives them at work?
Shadow people
Research + explore what's out there - does something else sound more interesting and fulfilling?
Courtesy of Cloudera new hires: Joseph, Alejandro, and Gianpaolo
Misha recommends the following next steps:
Juhi Khanna
2
Answers
Singapore
Updated
Juhi’s Answer
Answered by a fresh recruit in Cloudera:
As Derek Sivers famously said: “Choose the plan with the most options. Source: https://sive.rs/d1t In my example, I tried to keep curious about many things, and learn and try as many things as possible until one of them “clicks”. Another important concept is “intent-based learning” - that will make you accelerate much faster.
Suggested Next Steps:
Speak with persons from your family and friend circle - what do they do, and how do their day-to-day looks like. Try to find someone you can look up to, in particular as to whether they are happy, and/or wise, and have a balanced life. Try to spend a day with them at their workplace, to see what’s it like. Also, google :)
“Look for something that is easy for you, while everyone else finds it hard.” “Ideally, something others find useful, so you’ll have demand.” - Tim Ferriss
As Derek Sivers famously said: “Choose the plan with the most options. Source: https://sive.rs/d1t In my example, I tried to keep curious about many things, and learn and try as many things as possible until one of them “clicks”. Another important concept is “intent-based learning” - that will make you accelerate much faster.
Suggested Next Steps:
Speak with persons from your family and friend circle - what do they do, and how do their day-to-day looks like. Try to find someone you can look up to, in particular as to whether they are happy, and/or wise, and have a balanced life. Try to spend a day with them at their workplace, to see what’s it like. Also, google :)
“Look for something that is easy for you, while everyone else finds it hard.” “Ideally, something others find useful, so you’ll have demand.” - Tim Ferriss
Jasmine Fly, M.S.
Learning + Enrichment Program Delivery Specialist
8
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Jasmine’s Answer
Answer provided by a new hire cohort at Cloudera:
Try many things and don’t be afraid to switch or fail
Find Out what you enjoy doing
Talk to people and do job shadowing
Shadow others
Volunteer
Just have fun
Try many things and don’t be afraid to switch or fail
Find Out what you enjoy doing
Talk to people and do job shadowing
Jasmine recommends the following next steps:
Adriana Bañuelos D
Sales Operations
1
Answer
Guadalajara
Updated
Adriana’s Answer
Choosing a career is not a decision you must rush. Think of What are you good at? Or what do you like or enjoy doing? Reading, numbers, designing, cooking? This is a first approach. I would also recommend to attend to work fairs so you can check around what kind of job offers are out there and this might give you an idea of what path to choose. Checking out study plans of Careers you are interested in might also help. You can try voluntary jobs as well.