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Deciding What Career You Want

By: Emma Jones - Updated: 7 May 2012 | comments*Discuss
 
Career Career Change Career Development

What do you want to be when you grow up? When we are kids we often plan on having our dream job, but as we get older life gets in the way and we start thinking more practically. There are all sorts of career fields out there that might be right for you, however, and you just need to find the perfect match. With hard work, the right training and some career advice, anything is possible and you could soon be on route to the career you’ve always dreamed of.

What Do You Enjoy?

The best piece of career advice is to do something that you enjoy so it never feels like you are going to work. What are your Hobbies? If you can turn one of these into a career, you will always be enthusiastic about it. Perhaps you like Music, Sewing or Working With Kids. All of these can be turned into professional careers. What interests you? Do you like finding out about history, are you interested in third world issues or enjoy decorating? Focusing on what makes you happy is the first step to a fulfilling career.

What Other Skills Do You Have?

Many people get stuck in a mundane job and never make the most of their natural abilities. What are you good at? It might be a specific skill, such as cooking, writing or dancing. Or maybe is a more of a personality trait, such as being good with people, being caring or having a practical nature. Sometimes you can’t see what you are good at, so it can be helpful to ask your family and good friends what they see as your best traits.

What Work Experience Do You Have?

As well as picking a career that involves something that you enjoy and something that you are good at, you can also draw on your experience. Any career field can be difficult to break into if you don’t have the relevant experience. Think about any Transferable Skills, such as teamwork, communication or organisation, that you have gained and can use in your career change.

Making The Move

Once you have decided what career you would like to pursue, you need to get some career advice. Do your own research on the internet or in the library to learn about the field. Talk to a careers advisor who can discuss your career development and offer you practical advice. From this point, you will be able to find out what you need to do to get onto the career ladder and how you can make the most of your interests, skills and experience.

Which Company?

Once you know which career you want to move into, you need to investigate the types of company you'd like to work for. Making The Right Choice for you can make a real difference to your happiness and career development.

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