9 answers
Carli
Student
Bonduel, Wisconsin
1
Question
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How do I know if the career I’m looking at is right for me?
Looking for a job
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9 answers
Joanna Rose Mañaol, CPA, CISA
IT Auditor
200
Answers
San Jose, California
Updated
Joanna Rose’s Answer
Hello Carli,
To know if a career is right for you, consider your interest in the work, alignment with your skills, compatibility with your values and lifestyle, and the career's growth potential and stability.
To know if a career is right for you, consider your interest in the work, alignment with your skills, compatibility with your values and lifestyle, and the career's growth potential and stability.
Salette Cambra
Content Contributor
1
Answer
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Updated
Salette’s Answer
Finding the right career can feel like dating. It’s exciting but also nerve-wracking. Ensuring that a job is your perfect match is easier said than done, but there are ways to put a ring on that finger. Here are some significant first steps to determine if a career suits you.
First, I'd like you to start with some self-reflection. What do you love doing in your free time? What topics can you talk about for hours without getting bored? Your interests and passions are a huge indicator of what might make you happy in a career. For instance, I've always been passionate about helping others, which led me to consider healthcare, education, or social work careers. I eventually found my calling in journalism, where I could use my writing to spread stories and help others. It all comes down to what will make you look forward to Mondays rather than dreading your choice.
Now, let's focus on your unique strengths and skills. These are your secret weapons in finding a career where you can truly shine. Are you a natural at communicating? A career in marketing or public relations could be your sweet spot. Do you have a flair for numbers? Finance or data analysis might be your calling. Recognizing and leveraging your strengths can set you up for long-term career success.
Once you've identified some potential career paths, it's crucial to dig deeper. What does a typical day in that profession look like? What are the common tasks and challenges? You can find detailed job descriptions on career websites like Indeed or LinkedIn, watch professionals in action on YouTube, and explore blogs or articles about the field on platforms like Medium or industry-specific websites. This research is your preparation for the career journey. The more you know, the better you can decide if it’s the right path for you.
A great way to learn more about careers you’re considering pursuing is by talking to those in that position. There’s no substitute for first-hand insight. Reach out to people already working in the career you’re considering and ask them about their experiences, the pros and cons of the job, and any advice they might have for someone looking to enter the field. This can give you a realistic view of the job beyond what you can find in job descriptions or online research. LinkedIn is an excellent platform for finding professionals willing to share their knowledge.
If you’re stuck between only a few careers, try getting hands-on experience. This could be through internships, part-time jobs, volunteer work, or even shadowing someone in the field. In high school, I was editor-in-chief of my high school newspaper, and I continued with that passion into college and started writing articles for an online publication. This experience confirmed my interest in journalism and gave me a taste of the career beyond the job descriptions and interviews. Real-world experience will give you a deeper understanding of the career and help you make a more informed decision.
Look at the long-term prospects of the career. Is it a growing field with plenty of opportunities? For instance, technology and healthcare are currently booming industries. What are the advancement possibilities? Does it offer the financial stability you’re looking for? A great career satisfies your needs and interests and aligns with your aspirations. For example, a career in law can offer both financial stability and the opportunity for growth and advancement.
Finally, listen to your intuition. Sometimes, you feel gutted about whether a career is right for you. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t ignore it. Your instincts can be a valuable guide in making this critical decision. If you're feeling a strong pull towards a certain career, even if it doesn't align with your current skills or interests, it's worth exploring. Your intuition can often lead you to unexpected and fulfilling career paths.
Choosing the right career is a journey, not a destination. Changing paths and exploring new directions is okay as you grow and evolve. By reflecting on your interests, strengths, and lifestyle preferences, doing thorough research, and gaining real-world experience, you’ll be well on your way to finding a career that’s not just a job but a fulfilling part of your life. Happy career hunting!
First, I'd like you to start with some self-reflection. What do you love doing in your free time? What topics can you talk about for hours without getting bored? Your interests and passions are a huge indicator of what might make you happy in a career. For instance, I've always been passionate about helping others, which led me to consider healthcare, education, or social work careers. I eventually found my calling in journalism, where I could use my writing to spread stories and help others. It all comes down to what will make you look forward to Mondays rather than dreading your choice.
Now, let's focus on your unique strengths and skills. These are your secret weapons in finding a career where you can truly shine. Are you a natural at communicating? A career in marketing or public relations could be your sweet spot. Do you have a flair for numbers? Finance or data analysis might be your calling. Recognizing and leveraging your strengths can set you up for long-term career success.
Once you've identified some potential career paths, it's crucial to dig deeper. What does a typical day in that profession look like? What are the common tasks and challenges? You can find detailed job descriptions on career websites like Indeed or LinkedIn, watch professionals in action on YouTube, and explore blogs or articles about the field on platforms like Medium or industry-specific websites. This research is your preparation for the career journey. The more you know, the better you can decide if it’s the right path for you.
A great way to learn more about careers you’re considering pursuing is by talking to those in that position. There’s no substitute for first-hand insight. Reach out to people already working in the career you’re considering and ask them about their experiences, the pros and cons of the job, and any advice they might have for someone looking to enter the field. This can give you a realistic view of the job beyond what you can find in job descriptions or online research. LinkedIn is an excellent platform for finding professionals willing to share their knowledge.
If you’re stuck between only a few careers, try getting hands-on experience. This could be through internships, part-time jobs, volunteer work, or even shadowing someone in the field. In high school, I was editor-in-chief of my high school newspaper, and I continued with that passion into college and started writing articles for an online publication. This experience confirmed my interest in journalism and gave me a taste of the career beyond the job descriptions and interviews. Real-world experience will give you a deeper understanding of the career and help you make a more informed decision.
Look at the long-term prospects of the career. Is it a growing field with plenty of opportunities? For instance, technology and healthcare are currently booming industries. What are the advancement possibilities? Does it offer the financial stability you’re looking for? A great career satisfies your needs and interests and aligns with your aspirations. For example, a career in law can offer both financial stability and the opportunity for growth and advancement.
Finally, listen to your intuition. Sometimes, you feel gutted about whether a career is right for you. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t ignore it. Your instincts can be a valuable guide in making this critical decision. If you're feeling a strong pull towards a certain career, even if it doesn't align with your current skills or interests, it's worth exploring. Your intuition can often lead you to unexpected and fulfilling career paths.
Choosing the right career is a journey, not a destination. Changing paths and exploring new directions is okay as you grow and evolve. By reflecting on your interests, strengths, and lifestyle preferences, doing thorough research, and gaining real-world experience, you’ll be well on your way to finding a career that’s not just a job but a fulfilling part of your life. Happy career hunting!
TJ Xia
OSA Fellow, Verizon Master Inventor, Author of Books
25
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
TJ’s Answer
The perfect career for you is one that aligns with your passion, leverages your strengths, and meets market demand. Without passion, your interest in your job may wane over time. If your strengths don't match your job's demands, you might find it challenging to keep up with your colleagues. And if the market doesn't value your job's output, how can you expect to reap substantial rewards? Therefore, it's crucial to thoughtfully consider these three elements when deciding on your career path. This way, you can ensure a fulfilling and rewarding professional journey.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
4897
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Carli,
To determine if a career is right for you, consider the following steps:
Self-Assessment: Identify your interests, values, skills, and personality traits. You can use various self-assessment tools such as Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), Strong Interest Inventory (SII), or Holland Code Career Test to help you understand yourself better. These tests can provide insights into the types of careers that may be a good fit for you based on your results.
Research: Look up information about the career you’re interested in, including job duties, required education and training, salary range, growth potential, and work environment. You can use resources like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Occupational Information Network (O*NET), and professional organizations to gather this information.
Networking: Connect with people who are already working in the field to learn more about their experiences and gain valuable insights. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, or reach out to individuals on LinkedIn to expand your network.
Experience: Try to gain some experience in the field through internships, volunteer work, or part-time jobs while you’re still in school or before making a career change. This will give you a better understanding of what the job entails and help you make an informed decision.
Education and Training: Consider whether you need additional education or training to enter the field or advance in your career. This could include earning a degree, obtaining certifications, or taking courses to develop new skills.
Evaluate Your Options: Weigh the pros and cons of each career option based on your self-assessment results, research findings, networking experiences, and any relevant personal circumstances (e.g., family obligations). Make an informed decision based on this information rather than societal pressure or assumptions about what others expect from you.
Prepare for Your New Career: Once you’ve made a decision, take steps to prepare for your new career by updating your resume and cover letter, networking with professionals in the field, and gaining any necessary certifications or licenses.**
Authoritative References Used:
Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) - CPP Inc., www.cpp-dbt.com/mbti_basics/mbti_overview_intro_types/mbti_overview_intro_types_homepage/index.htm
Strong Interest Inventory (SII) - ACT Research Institute, www2010siiweb01cust189338p01prod1002/strong/homepage/
HomePageLoginFormEntryPoint?execution=e1s1
U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics - www.bls.gov
God Bless You, Richly, JC.
To determine if a career is right for you, consider the following steps:
Self-Assessment: Identify your interests, values, skills, and personality traits. You can use various self-assessment tools such as Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), Strong Interest Inventory (SII), or Holland Code Career Test to help you understand yourself better. These tests can provide insights into the types of careers that may be a good fit for you based on your results.
Research: Look up information about the career you’re interested in, including job duties, required education and training, salary range, growth potential, and work environment. You can use resources like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Occupational Information Network (O*NET), and professional organizations to gather this information.
Networking: Connect with people who are already working in the field to learn more about their experiences and gain valuable insights. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, or reach out to individuals on LinkedIn to expand your network.
Experience: Try to gain some experience in the field through internships, volunteer work, or part-time jobs while you’re still in school or before making a career change. This will give you a better understanding of what the job entails and help you make an informed decision.
Education and Training: Consider whether you need additional education or training to enter the field or advance in your career. This could include earning a degree, obtaining certifications, or taking courses to develop new skills.
Evaluate Your Options: Weigh the pros and cons of each career option based on your self-assessment results, research findings, networking experiences, and any relevant personal circumstances (e.g., family obligations). Make an informed decision based on this information rather than societal pressure or assumptions about what others expect from you.
Prepare for Your New Career: Once you’ve made a decision, take steps to prepare for your new career by updating your resume and cover letter, networking with professionals in the field, and gaining any necessary certifications or licenses.**
Authoritative References Used:
Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) - CPP Inc., www.cpp-dbt.com/mbti_basics/mbti_overview_intro_types/mbti_overview_intro_types_homepage/index.htm
Strong Interest Inventory (SII) - ACT Research Institute, www2010siiweb01cust189338p01prod1002/strong/homepage/
HomePageLoginFormEntryPoint?execution=e1s1
U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics - www.bls.gov
God Bless You, Richly, JC.
Rebecca Tang
Banking
1600
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. Many students have similar question.. Firstly, you have to find out what careers you have interest.
Below are my suggestions:
1. Think about what you have interest, eg your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc and identify the related careers
Eg if you like music, would you like to be a musician, singer, musical artist, music composer, music producer, etc
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counselor, your parents, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions:
1. Think about what you have interest, eg your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc and identify the related careers
Eg if you like music, would you like to be a musician, singer, musical artist, music composer, music producer, etc
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counselor, your parents, etc
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
D'Mauri Rich
Client Communication Specialist
5
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
D'Mauri’s Answer
Start by jotting down all the things you truly enjoy. Once you're happy with your list, explore every job or opportunity that matches your interests. This will help you discover your strengths. Remember, it's okay to stumble and fall; it's part of the learning process. You may not excel immediately, but with time and practice, you'll certainly shine.
Cheuk Hei Andrew Chan
Certified Career Development Facilitator
8
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Cheuk Hei Andrew’s Answer
Each person's career path is unique and influenced by various factors. To navigate your career journey effectively, it is helpful to consider two major aspects:
Yourself:
Reflect on your interests, values, and beliefs. Identify what brings you joy and excitement. Consider the importance of the opinions of those close to you. Understanding yourself better can guide you towards environments where you can thrive and find happiness in your work.
Work:
Examine the nature of the job and what daily life in that role looks like. Understand the people and culture within the workplace. Think about where you want to be in 5-10 years within this career.
The modern career landscape is more complex than simply matching interests and skills. A fulfilling career often involves finding work that is meaningful to you. Here are some steps to help you in this process:
Talk to a career counselor/coach/facilitator
Connect with people in a career you are interested in and engage in information interviews
Yourself:
Reflect on your interests, values, and beliefs. Identify what brings you joy and excitement. Consider the importance of the opinions of those close to you. Understanding yourself better can guide you towards environments where you can thrive and find happiness in your work.
Work:
Examine the nature of the job and what daily life in that role looks like. Understand the people and culture within the workplace. Think about where you want to be in 5-10 years within this career.
The modern career landscape is more complex than simply matching interests and skills. A fulfilling career often involves finding work that is meaningful to you. Here are some steps to help you in this process:
Cheuk Hei Andrew recommends the following next steps:
John Mogielski
Sales
3
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
John’s Answer
Hello Carli,
Let's start by pondering over what you're really good at. What are your strengths? Next, consider what your aspirations and principles are. What do you value most in life? Following that, it's time to figure out your work style. How do you like to work and what environment suits you best?
Now, let's jot down some careers that pique your interest. Once you have that list, it would be beneficial to have a chat with individuals who are already working in those fields. They can provide you with some valuable insights.
You might also consider taking a career test. This can help you narrow down your options and find a path that aligns with your skills and interests.
Don't forget to seek advice from your family and friends who know you best. They can often provide a unique perspective and may suggest options you hadn't considered.
Finally, try volunteering or working in your field of interest. This will give you a real taste of what it's like and help you decide if it's the right fit for you.
Let's start by pondering over what you're really good at. What are your strengths? Next, consider what your aspirations and principles are. What do you value most in life? Following that, it's time to figure out your work style. How do you like to work and what environment suits you best?
Now, let's jot down some careers that pique your interest. Once you have that list, it would be beneficial to have a chat with individuals who are already working in those fields. They can provide you with some valuable insights.
You might also consider taking a career test. This can help you narrow down your options and find a path that aligns with your skills and interests.
Don't forget to seek advice from your family and friends who know you best. They can often provide a unique perspective and may suggest options you hadn't considered.
Finally, try volunteering or working in your field of interest. This will give you a real taste of what it's like and help you decide if it's the right fit for you.
Jamie Northcutt
Forensic Auditor
25
Answers
Selmer, Tennessee
Updated
Jamie’s Answer
Job shadowing is a great option to see if the career field you think you like is for you. You will get to see what people actually do every day. Research for some people in your area and the career field you’re interested in. Send out some emails or call them. The worst they can say is no, but they will never be mad you asked. From my experience, asking for opportunities is a great way to network and make a good impression on people in your career field as well. Good luck!