What to know before going into any career

Definitions 

The word career is defined by the Oxford English Dictionary as a person's "course or progress through life (or a distinct portion of life)". In this definition career is understood to relate to a range of aspects of an individual's life, learning and work. Career is also frequently understood to relate to the working aspects of an individual's life e.g. as in career woman. A third way in which the term career is used to describe an occupation or a profession that usually involves special training or formal education,^[1] and is considered to be a person’s lifework.^[2] In this case "a career" is seen as a sequence of related jobs usually pursued within a single industry or sector e.g. "a career in education" or "a career in the building trade".

Career management

Career management describes the active and purposeful management of a career by an individual. Ideas of what comprise "career management skills" are described by the Blueprint model (in the United States, Canada, Australia, Scotland, and England^[3])^[4] and the Seven C's of Digital Career Literacy (specifically relating to the Internet skills).^[5]

Key skills include the ability to reflect on one's current career, research the labour market, determine whether education is necessary, find openings, and make career changes.

 Below are 9 questions you have to answer before choosing any career, for a successful life:

1.      If I could choose one friend to trade jobs with, I’d choose ____________, because ____________.

2.      I’ve always wondered what it would be like to do ____________. It’s interesting to me because ____________.

3.      If I had the right education or skill set, I’d definitely try ____________, because ____________.

4.      If I had to go back to school tomorrow, I’d major in ____________, because ____________.

5.      My co-workers and friends always say I’m great at ____________, because ____________.

6.      The thing I love most about my current job is ____________, because ____________.

7.      If my boss would let me, I’d do more of ____________, because ____________.

8.      If I had a free Saturday that had to be spent “working” on something, I’d choose ____________, because ____________.

9.      When I retire, I want to be known for ____________, because ____________

 

As you’re thinking through your career change, I’d encourage you not to let fear or insecurities about your skillset hold you back and to think big about the possibilities that are out there. Sure—if you’re a communications professional who’s fascinated by the law, becoming an attorney can be a long and difficult road ahead. But why not consider it? The road might not be as long as you imagine (and it definitely can be worth it). But, also pay attention to specifically what about the law gets you excited. Is it in-depth research? Helping other people? Arguing a case? There are plenty of other professions where you could combine your current skills with your passions to do those things, sans law degree. By diving into your interests like this, you can start to open up a world of possibilities.

 

Oh, and if you get through the list and are still stumped? Share it with a friend or mentor. Sometimes an objective eye can see patterns you can’t.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Be_Inspired!!!