5 Steps For Finding Your Perfect Career Match

As young people in a rapidly changing society, we are faced with having to make important career choices a lot earlier in our lives than the generations before us. What is worse, everyone seems to have an opinion about what we should be doing. The opinions of loved ones around you are important, but you should ultimately pick a career that fits your personal interests and preferences.

There is nothing worse than living a life full of regret for not choosing to do what you truly love. Below are a few steps you can take to help find your perfect career match.

1. 1. Know Yourself – The most important step in finding the field of work that is right for you is knowing yourself. This means being very aware of what your real interests are and distinguishing them from phases or what other people might be pushing you into “liking.” Do you really want to be a doctor, or have you been watching too many House re-runs? Have you been going to those piano lessons because you love music, or because your parents want you to? Think about what type of place you picture yourself working at. Would you like work out on the field, or in an office? These are things to really think about. The number one thing you need to know about yourself, however, is what you are good at. It may sound harsh, but a career as a nurse will probably not be any good for you if you have an unsteady hand or a weak stomach.

1. 2. Know Others – Another great way to decide whether a career is right for you is to meet and talk to people in a field that you are considering. This person will be able to give you a real idea of what it’s like to have a job in said field, and may even make you aware of any misconceptions you may have. Some jobs may seem glamorous, but are totally different in practice. Don’t be afraid to ask questions!

A 3. Volunteer/Intern –There is no better way to know if something is right for you than to try it out. Volunteer and internship opportunities exist for almost any career you can imagine; all it takes is a little searching. If you don’t find the type of internship or volunteer gig you are looking for, try going back to #2 and asking someone you know in that field if he or she needs an assistant, or if you could shadow him or her.

1. 4.Visit your school’s career center/ counselor’s office – Most high schools and colleges have staff members that are dedicated to helping students figure it all out. If what you want to pursue as a career doesn’t jump out at you, that’s okay. There are people whose job is to help you look at all the options as well has help you recognize your own skills and interests. Once again, don’t be shy!

5. 5. Stick it to em’ – When you find something that you want to pursue, be happy and proud! It takes a lot of guts to go after something that you really want to do. Some people may try to tell you otherwise, but every career has a place in society.