The process of planning a career can seem intimidating, and for good reason. Many people don't end up in their industries of choice before putting in years of work and consistent evaluation and assessment of goals, skills and possibilities. Being open to unique career planning ideas as well as traditional methods can help foster creativity and support all the pitfalls of the sometimes lengthy and frustrating process.
Assess
The North Carolina Career Resource Network recommends making an honest assessment of your skills and abilities, personality, likes and dislikes, hobbies and goals, both personal and professional. If you're unsure about the answers, aptitude, personality and assessment tests and quizzes, which are available online and at libraries, can help. Considering your qualities and interests is important because it will help you decide what you want out of a career as well as what you may be able to offer in a variety of positions.
Brainstorm
Brainstorm a list of all potential careers that interest you. Write down every idea that comes to mind, regardless of how realistic it may be, and focus on careers you believe would offer satisfaction and contribute to personal happiness. Randall Powell, author of "Career Planning Strategies," points out that few career choices are likely to be permanent, so it's helpful to be flexible and seek out options that appeal to you rather than relying on others' advice.
Investigate
The ACT points out that it's hard to choose a career if you're unaware of what's available. It helps to have an open mind and be willing to consider jobs and industries that may sound a bit different from your ideal position. Use career reference guides, available at libraries, to investigate job possibilities, especially if you're thinking about changing the industry in which you work. Consider shadowing people in their jobs for a day or seek out volunteer opportunities that will allow you to learn more about unfamiliar industries.
Set Goals
Once you narrow down the potential career choices that interest you, set goals that will put you on track to achieving one of more of them. The goals can be long-term as well as immediate; for example, if you want to learn more about the service industry but think you may want a career as an educator, try enrolling for a teaching certificate and taking classes while you apply for jobs in a part-time or temporary service position. If a goal is especially large, develop milestones that you can accomplish gradually along the way.
Educate
Some jobs require specific qualifications or experience that may seem unattainable. Take action to educate yourself about those requirements and how you can meet them. It might be necessary to earn another degree, take a low-paying job, search for an internship or forge connections within a new industry network to break through, but it's important to show initiative and take responsibility for what you want in a career.
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