How many times has a teacher, family member or friend asked you about your career aspirations? How many times have you decided on your dream job only to change your mind shortly thereafter?
It’s very common to be indecisive about your career choice; there are so many options and a lot of unknowns.
Most of us will change our career a handful of times throughout our lives and it’s becoming more and more accepted to do so. But before we get to that point, where do we start? Developing a career decision is not the easiest thing to do, but it is important.
Here are a few steps that will help point you in the right direction:
The best way to get started is to do a self-assessment. This will help pinpoint the type of career that may best suit you. Grab a blank sheet of paper and using a pen, divide it into 4.
- In the first square write down your interests such as being outdoors, physical activity, mechanics, children, animals, reading, using computers etc.
- In the next square list your skills; what are you good at? This may include being social, paying attention to detail, verbal or written communication, understanding computers, inventing things, public speaking etc.
- In the third square write down your core values; these are your personal values that dictate how you operate and the standards you measure yourself against. These may include honesty, fairness, being kind and considerate etc.
- Finally, think about what would best motivate you to go to work. Is it money, helping others, lifestyle, flexibility, colleagues, deadlines etc.
Share the results of your self-assessment with your close family and friends and ask their opinion. Their outside perspective may provide you with ideas you hadn’t thought of.
Now get online and research what industries advertise the types of jobs that best suit you overall. There many different job search websites to use for this. Don’t be discouraged if employers are looking for experience or qualifications that you don’t have yet; like all of us, these are things you will gain over time.
Consider an apprenticeship or traineeship within the industry of your choice. This will provide you with not only a qualification but practical experience too. To see what positions CCGT is advertising click here.
Always remember that your cover letter and resume are the first things a perspective employer will see. For help and tips on how to write a resume click here.
Finally, don’t forget to have fun and get excited; put yourself in the driver’s seat and take control of your career’s direction.
