Posted by How to start a career
Before you start your job, you should develop an effective plan that will help you succeed. Here are some guidelines to help you start off your career:
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Make a list of your interests and talents
Create a list of your hobbies, skills and passions. Consider anything you enjoy doing—even if it doesn’t seem related to a traditional career. For example, if you like spending time outside, cooking or helping other people, list what you find fulfilling about each of these activities. Note any themes or patterns on your lists to help you find a suitable career match. Identifying your talents and hobbies can help you uncover what you’re passionate about and which careers may suit you.
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Consider your career preferences
Determine the type of job you want and the goals you have for your career. Knowing your career goals will help you decide what kind of education you need and what kind of positions to apply for.
Consider your choices regarding a job’s journey length, location, average compensation, and typical working schedule. Identifying these factors can assist you in prioritising your choices and limiting your search.
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Review your qualifications
In any profession, specific abilities and certifications are required. Before starting on a fresh career path, you should assess your education and abilities. Assessing your current abilities and qualifications may help you determine the next steps in your professional development and future career. It can also assist you in determining what positions match your existing qualifications.
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Research industries and careers
Research different jobs and industries that align with your qualifications and interests. For example, if you love science and helping people, consider a job in the healthcare industry. Use an online search engine to research industries and jobs across different sectors. Read job descriptions to learn more about each of the positions’ responsibilities and required skills to help you to determine if you’re qualified for the position.
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Consider volunteering or interning
Consider becoming a volunteer or intern to provide you with further insight into a career or industry. Research opportunities online or talk to your college’s career center to learn about various intern or volunteer positions you might find interesting. Keep in mind that most internships or volunteer opportunities don’t offer you monetary compensation. However, they may provide you with valuable experience to help with your future endeavors. In addition, interning or volunteering gives you the opportunity to shadow working professionals and ask them about their jobs. Hearing about their experiences can help you make a well-informed career decision.
Related link: 5 Career Resolutions for a Successful New Year
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Find a mentor
Make a connection with an employee in the industry of you’re interested in. Developing a professional relationship with someone in your prospective field can provide you with useful information and guidance based on their personal experiences. Consider researching industry professionals whose work you admire or whose jobs you find interesting. Then, connect with them via email. A mentor may even connect you with other industry professionals who can help you establish your career even further.
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Pursue the right qualifications
Once you make a career choice, research the common requirements for the job you’re interested in. Some jobs require certain degrees or certifications. After your research, spend time pursuing the common qualifications for the job you want if you don’t already have them.
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Apply for positions
After pursuing the common qualifications for the job you’re interested in, research open positions. When you find positions that match your qualifications, you can submit an application online or in person. Keep in mind that different companies guidelines for the same job title might differ. As a result, carefully read the job description for the position you’re interested in to ensure you meet the particular qualifications for the particular position.