19 answers
Aaron
Student
Loveland, Colorado
1
Question
Asked
591 views
What's the most important factor when considering a career ?
I'm very undecided in what I should do in life and I wanna make sure I don't make a mistake with something as important as my future.
Login to comment
19 answers
Joe Pham
Product Manager
3
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Joe’s Answer
Don't feel confined to a single path or area of interest, particularly when you're young. Dive into classes and subjects that pique your curiosity. Engage in conversations with teachers who motivate you, even if they don't teach in your preferred career field. By broadening your horizons, you'll discover fresh opportunities and uncover passions you never knew you had.
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
657
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
Find something that you love to do so much, that if they did not pay you to do it, you would still do it anyway. Find an occupation you love to do and that you are good at doing. If you are good at something and love it, the money and high compensation eventually follows.
Afrad Mahamed
Operations & Project Management
64
Answers
Lakeland, Florida
Updated
Afrad’s Answer
Hi Aaron -
It's great that you're thinking about this early. I recommend trying to experience as many of the things you're even remotely interested in. This will provide you a better understanding of how they are in the real world, vs what you hear or may read about. Take opportunities to do internships, site visits, volunteer, or anything that would allow you to witness employees in the field. Youtube has a lot of videos on almost any field or job, that can shed light as well. Keep in mind this is not a guaranteed formula to give you that "epiphany" that you seek, but would greatly increase the probability.
At times, simply traveling this path of discovery is what's needed to highlight opportunities for us.
On the other hand, spend time thinking about what it important to you. What about a job or career do you value most? Money, impact (making a difference), low demanding, being famous, etc. Once you know what's most important to you, that will help you further narrow down the best career for you.
Hope this helps, best of luck!
It's great that you're thinking about this early. I recommend trying to experience as many of the things you're even remotely interested in. This will provide you a better understanding of how they are in the real world, vs what you hear or may read about. Take opportunities to do internships, site visits, volunteer, or anything that would allow you to witness employees in the field. Youtube has a lot of videos on almost any field or job, that can shed light as well. Keep in mind this is not a guaranteed formula to give you that "epiphany" that you seek, but would greatly increase the probability.
At times, simply traveling this path of discovery is what's needed to highlight opportunities for us.
On the other hand, spend time thinking about what it important to you. What about a job or career do you value most? Money, impact (making a difference), low demanding, being famous, etc. Once you know what's most important to you, that will help you further narrow down the best career for you.
Hope this helps, best of luck!
Marcus Williamson
area sales manager
10
Answers
Smyrna, Georgia
Updated
Marcus’s Answer
I Definitely would encourage you to take sometime and don't stress if it takes longer than expected to figure it out. Figure out what it is that you love , enjoy, and would not mind spending the rest of your life doing. Also if that tends to change with time that is ok as well.
Elina Chhabra
Sr. Software Developer and Team Lead
3
Answers
Lawrence Township, New Jersey
Updated
Elina’s Answer
Choosing a career is a personal journey, and a key factor is following your passion and interests. Reflect on activities that bring you joy and align with your strengths. Consider the lifestyle you envision and explore potential careers through internships or research. Connect with professionals to gain insights. While passion is crucial, balance it with practical considerations like job market demand and growth opportunities. Ultimately, finding a career that blends what you love with real-world feasibility is key to a fulfilling future.
Sai Kondrakunta
Product Project Manager
4
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Sai’s Answer
Hi Aaron, I completely understand your uncertainty about choosing a career, as I felt similarly for a long time. Even now, as a working professional, I don't always feel 100% set in my career choice. What I've come to realize is that having varied interests is a strength. I've benefited the most from trying different things and exploring a wide range of opportunities. It's important to understand that being undecided doesn't have to be a negative; it can be a superpower. Embracing your diverse interests can make you cross-functional, allowing you to work with a variety of teams and continue learning. The key is to view your journey as a continuous exploration, giving yourself the freedom to evolve and adapt as you discover what truly resonates with you.
Lisa DuBois
Digital Marketing Manager
3
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Lisa’s Answer
This is a common sentiment! There is nothing wrong with going to college as "Undecided," and exploring your likes and interests via classes and clubs in college. It's very, very common to start out in college as one major and switch to another, it's also common to finish college in a major and not have a job or career in that specific field. The most important thing you should be thinking about and working toward is finding topics and subjects that interest you. And, if that's not via the college path, try a trade school, technical school or even a community college. There are so many options to learn and grow beyond high school, and they don't have to cost a fortune! Just keep exploring, learning, trying new things, talking to different people and GROWING. Best of luck to you!
Jonathan D'Arcio
Marketing
1
Answer
Sayreville, New Jersey
Updated
Jonathan’s Answer
Hi Aaron, I completely understand your concern. I want to let you know you aren't alone and although I have a career now, I felt the same way when I was in school. The good thing about being young and just "starting" is you have options and you can try different career paths. Finding a career, you love and are passionate about is the secret to "never working a day in your life".
Some of the ways that I found my career was I started working at 14 years old. Some of the jobs I did was cutting grass, snow shoveling, leaf raking, and I worked in a restaurant. These were all part time jobs but I was able to learn how to work with "clients" and gain business experience. I continued to work in the restaurant industry when I was in college and I would come up with ideas to increase sales and get people in the door. I didn't know it at the time but this was "marketing" and I loved it. My idea was to sell half price slices with toppings after 8pm every day. This reduced the number of slices we throw out at the end of each night and increased our foot traffic/sales. Maybe more information than needed, but just a real-life example.
So, try different jobs, be open to learn skills from your family/friends, and if you enjoy a certain class in school see how you can make it a career. Best of luck to you and in your future.
Some of the ways that I found my career was I started working at 14 years old. Some of the jobs I did was cutting grass, snow shoveling, leaf raking, and I worked in a restaurant. These were all part time jobs but I was able to learn how to work with "clients" and gain business experience. I continued to work in the restaurant industry when I was in college and I would come up with ideas to increase sales and get people in the door. I didn't know it at the time but this was "marketing" and I loved it. My idea was to sell half price slices with toppings after 8pm every day. This reduced the number of slices we throw out at the end of each night and increased our foot traffic/sales. Maybe more information than needed, but just a real-life example.
So, try different jobs, be open to learn skills from your family/friends, and if you enjoy a certain class in school see how you can make it a career. Best of luck to you and in your future.
Mark Anthony Cimabue
Ecommerce
9
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Mark Anthony’s Answer
Firstly, I encourage you to embrace every decision you make in your career journey, without any fear or doubt. Remember, it's completely natural to question your choices, even when you're unsure if they're the best ones. Secondly, always follow your heart and choose a career that ignites your passion. This is the key to unlocking a successful and fulfilling career!
Michael Hampton
Sales Chat Platform Strategy Manager
3
Answers
Frisco, Texas
Updated
Michael’s Answer
1. Do what you love. If you like helping people, look into customer service or a specific way to help people like healthcare. If you like technology, look at companies that offer jobs where you can get introduced to their products and services like an Apple store.
2. Try many different things if you are not sure. Let the world guide you to what is available. I have learned to keep my eyes and ears open for what is being offered around me. I like being diverse and learning many different things.
3. Don't be afraid to change if what you tried isn't working out. I started out in Accounting because I love numbers. An opportunity in customers service in tech support kept opening up to me and I finally listened. It was the best thing I did because it led me to where I am today working a job where I not only help customers find what they want, but I also help improve the lives and experiences for those who use technology to help customers.
2. Try many different things if you are not sure. Let the world guide you to what is available. I have learned to keep my eyes and ears open for what is being offered around me. I like being diverse and learning many different things.
3. Don't be afraid to change if what you tried isn't working out. I started out in Accounting because I love numbers. An opportunity in customers service in tech support kept opening up to me and I finally listened. It was the best thing I did because it led me to where I am today working a job where I not only help customers find what they want, but I also help improve the lives and experiences for those who use technology to help customers.
Marisa Pandy
Marketing Consultant
2
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Marisa’s Answer
Hey Aaron, how about jotting down 10 things that truly ignite your passion? You could even create a digital vision board to visualize your interests. Once you've got that, start exploring careers that align with your passions. Consider internships or delve into industry research to get a feel for potential career paths. This will give you a clearer picture of what you enjoy and what you don't, helping you fine-tune your list. In the end, you'll land a job that resonates with your passion, ensuring that you'll always love what you do!
Lorie piazza
Analyst
1
Answer
Buffalo, New York
Updated
Lorie’s Answer
I would say don't worry if you are undecided.
Many people I know did not find their path right away. It's ok.
Nothing is permanent so take chances and try things of interest.
I'd also say volunteer to different organizations. That may lead you to your passion career.
Many people I know did not find their path right away. It's ok.
Nothing is permanent so take chances and try things of interest.
I'd also say volunteer to different organizations. That may lead you to your passion career.
Brian Klemp
Sr Manager Ops Support
3
Answers
Buffalo, New York
Updated
Brian’s Answer
Aaron,
What are you passionate about? What do you love? Start there. Do some research, and do not limit yourself. You will learn and grow from every step that you take on your journey. Your course may change many times over the course of your life, so don't think that you have to decide the rest of your life today.
B.
What are you passionate about? What do you love? Start there. Do some research, and do not limit yourself. You will learn and grow from every step that you take on your journey. Your course may change many times over the course of your life, so don't think that you have to decide the rest of your life today.
B.
Jhenai Roble
Procurement Specialist
3
Answers
Sacramento, California
Updated
Jhenai’s Answer
Hello there! I want to assure you that it's perfectly okay not to feel locked into a single career path. Always remember, it's never too late to change your direction if you feel the need. In that spirit, I highly recommend exploring new horizons. Discovering your true passion often requires stepping outside your comfort zone. Engage in a range of diverse activities or become part of social groups, allowing you to learn from others and their unique experiences. Hearing varied life stories can be enlightening and provide valuable insights. So, go ahead and embrace the adventure of self-discovery!
Marlaina Goodman, MBA
Credentialing Specialist
3
Answers
Kent, Washington
Updated
Marlaina’s Answer
I understand your concern. When I first started my career journey I went into it thinking I wanted to be an accountant. I went to school only to drop out half way through. After dropping out I had several ideas of what I wanted to do but wasn’t 100% sold on any of them.
It took me several years to come to the conclusion that I wanted to purse a career in business. I knew that there were many paths in business, Marketing, Human Resources, Project Management, and so much more. It wasn’t until Covid and moving to a small rural community that my career path changed (not by a lot). While I still work in business, I decided that I wanted to help people so I’m now pursing a medical degree to provide temporary relief if/when it is needed.
I think you can find what career path you should take with some of these steps.
1. Write down what drives/motivates you?
2. What are things that make you happy or do you enjoy doing? Typically, if you purse a career based on the things that make you happy you most likely stick with it.
3. What are things that make you unhappy or what do you dislike? Of course, every career will have cons, but too many cons will have you feeling burned out and unhappy.
4. Are there any topics/issues/concerns that you are passionate about? For instance, are you passionate about people receiving equal healthcare regardless of income or insurance?
5. What is your 5 year plan? What does that plan consist of? What are your overall goals? Is there a career that aligns with your plan or goals?
It took me several years to come to the conclusion that I wanted to purse a career in business. I knew that there were many paths in business, Marketing, Human Resources, Project Management, and so much more. It wasn’t until Covid and moving to a small rural community that my career path changed (not by a lot). While I still work in business, I decided that I wanted to help people so I’m now pursing a medical degree to provide temporary relief if/when it is needed.
I think you can find what career path you should take with some of these steps.
Marlaina recommends the following next steps:
This is great advice!
Lisa DuBois
Angie Yang
Social Impact
2
Answers
Monterey, California
Updated
Angie’s Answer
There's never a right or wrong answer to choosing a career or life path. My biggest recommendation to you would be to take a deep breath, find some time to be introspective and define what brings you joy. Every step, change, or decision you make in your career journey fueled by passion or joy will ultimately lead you to the right direction. And it's absolutely a-ok for your passions to change. Just as the world and industries change with new knowledge and technology your passions will inevitably change as well.
I personally started my college career as a pre-med student. After 1.5 years I then decided to change and become a physics major and another 2 quarters later after taking a really inspiring course I graduated as a Politics and Feminist Studies major...who now works in an interactive entertainment company. But all these changes have ultimately led me to an industry and field that I'm super passionate about!
I personally started my college career as a pre-med student. After 1.5 years I then decided to change and become a physics major and another 2 quarters later after taking a really inspiring course I graduated as a Politics and Feminist Studies major...who now works in an interactive entertainment company. But all these changes have ultimately led me to an industry and field that I'm super passionate about!
Kara Targac
Financial Analyst
4
Answers
Round Rock, Texas
Updated
Kara’s Answer
Consider your interest, passions, and personal satisfaction. I would say do not chose a career based on money alone. I decided on my career based on the job security, work life balance, as well as opportunities to grow and learn more. It really depends on what matters most to you. Goodluck!
Tyler Shannon
Safety Manager (Environmental, Health, Safety)
4
Answers
Fort Collins, Colorado
Updated
Tyler’s Answer
The most important factor is that you love what you do. People change careers all the time, but that takes a significant commitment a lot of times. Whatever career path you choose, if you don't love it then you are spending 2000 or more hours every year doing something you don't enjoy. And as important as what you do, is who you do it with. Make sure you work for a company that has Core Values that you agree with. A company with people that are more than just co-workers to you, but people you care for. Why? Because it you are spending that much time working... that is a lot of time to be doing something, at a company and around people that you don't enjoy. Compound that year over year and that is a lot of life you are not enjoying. Money and benefits are certainly important to make sure you have value and security outside of work, but true value and security inside of work comes with the passion for your job and the desire to be the best at it because you love what you do.
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
566
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Aaron, I believe that the most important thing is to align your decisions with what you are passionate about and what you value. Take into account your skills, interests, and the impact you want to make. It's essential to spend time reflecting and exploring what truly excites you to make well-informed career choices. Don't rush through this process. Instead, get involved in various activities, internships, and seek advice from experienced mentors to gain real-world insights. Remember, your career is a significant part of your life's journey, so it's important to prioritize satisfaction and purpose. By staying true to yourself, adjusting to changing interests, and making well-thought-out decisions, you can create a fulfilling and meaningful career.