How to Choose a Career You Will Love

Meeting with a career development counselor can help steer your decision.

Choosing a career is one of the most important decisions you will make for your future. A career choice should be based on skills, personality, values, talents and more. You should also keep in mind your future prospects in terms of salary, advancement and related opportunities in your field.

Instructions

1. Visit your local library for books on vocational guidance. You want material on possible careers that includes career assessment tests. This will help narrow your scope.

2. Take a self-assessment. Think about areas in which you naturally excel, enjoy and receive compliments. You are usually good at what you enjoy.

3. Contact a career development specialist. The specialist will administer specialized tests that can help you determine some possible careers, then consult with you on the results.

4. Take a test online. Several sites offer free tests that will help you determine a possible career choice.

5. Explore a couple of the possible careers from your test results. Assess whether they interest you and hold long-term potential. Ask yourself if you would be truly happy in the job for a long time and if you can even afford the necessary schooling.

6. Find someone who currently has a career similar to the one you want. Question the person extensively on the career. For example, if you would like to be a police officer, ask to ride along on a shift. If the police department approves, that is your opportunity to gain valuable firsthand information and get even more questions answered.

7. Volunteer or intern for the jobs you feel hold real potential for you. This should allow you to successfully choose a career.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep an open mind.

• Consider how you can perhaps turn a hobby you really enjoy into a career.

References

• About-Goal-Setting: Career Decision Making Guide