Steps for Planning Your Career

Planning a career, especially the first time around, can seem like a huge task. It's understandable that you don't want to make a mistake. If you do some thinking up front, you can head in the right direction and make adjustments in your career when needed. The way jobs are changing, you'll need to readjust, change jobs or careers, and learn new skills along the way anyway.

Planning your career now and in the future really comes down to three steps. By following these
steps, you can make decisions that are right for you. You'll know your options and what it will take to reach your goals.

Take a realistic look at your strengths, weaknesses, and interests.

What can help you achieve your goals and what obstacles could get in your way?
What types of work and school courses and activities appeal to you?
What interests you?
What do you do well now and what skills have you gained through experience?
What values do you have regarding work?

Explore your options. It's hard to know what to do for a career when you don't even know all
the possibilities. Here are just a few ways to find career information:

Explore your career options using ACT's World-of-Work Map or the Kuder Career Planning System.
Spend time with people whose activities intrigue you.
Volunteer or work in a job that interests you.
Discuss your career and educational plans with your school counselor, parents, or other
interested people.

Consider issues that can affect your plans and take actions to accomplish your goals.

What do you need to study?
What schools offer the training you need?
How will you pay for school?
Are you ready to search for a job?
How will you balance your work and going to school?
How will you manage family or relationship commitments?

Source: ACT's News You Can Use
Posted: 2/4/2008