Why Should You Work?

Work provides you with a purpose and the opportunity to develop your skills in an area of interest. There are many benefits of working, including:

• An income
• Improved mental health
• Structure and routine
• Increased self-confidence
• Resilience
• Social connections and friendships
• Learning opportunities
• Contributing to society
• Independence

What is a career path?

A career path is a long-term plan that helps you reach your professional goals. It can comprise educational and industry-related learning experiences and job titles that help develop the skills and knowledge needed for your desired occupation.

For example, someone with a goal of becoming a graphic designer might get a degree in graphic design, then get an entry role as a junior graphic designer, work their way up to senior graphic designer and then progress onto studio manager or creative director.

How to choose a career

Choosing a career can be daunting, and it’s ok not to have everything figured out. It’s important to remember that nothing is set in stone, and you can always change career paths later if you decide that what you’re currently doing isn’t for you.

1. Consider your skills and interests
   • • Make a mind map; consider your skills, interests, hobbies, ambitions, etc.
     • You can take a personality test to understand your strengths and weaknesses.
     • Ask yourself what subject you enjoy and what subjects you’re good at and consider how they may overlap.
     • Talk to your friends, family and other connections about what they do.
     • Use diagrams, notes, and pictures to define what you are looking for in a career. Do you want an office job? A job where you interact with a wide range of clients? A job that requires you to work in a team?
2. Take a careers test; Prospects, Explore Careers, Gov – Careers Test and Coursera all offer free tests.
   • • A careers test can help highlight your skills and wants and show you what jobs might suit you.
3. Explore careers
   • • Look into the suggested careers and careers that interest you and rule out any that don’t.
     • Once your list is narrowed, you can look deeper into the roles and consider factors like the educational requirements, work-life balance, how satisfied you would be in that profession, and your short and long-term goals.
4. Make a decision
   • • You don’t necessarily need to choose just one career yet, but it’s good to only have a few options and to start working towards them.

how to make an action plan

There is more than one path to the career you want, and if you have an interest, you can build the skills and qualifications.

1. Plan for the next few years, not just one year: Multi-year plans give more flexibility and allow for unforeseen circumstances without hindering your progress, as the additional time gives you time to address issues when they arise and adjust your goal as necessary. They also help you see the bigger picture, so it’s easier to stay motivated.
2. Research and evaluate what education and training you need to gain the skills required for your career.
3. Set SMART goals (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound) for the short, medium and long term.
4. Develop a plan outlining the steps to achieve your goals, including gaining relevant skills and experience and building your network.
5. Reflect on yourself annually and adjust your goals as necessary.
6. Remember to constantly update your CV to include your new skills, education and experience.
7. Try your best and believe in yourself!

•  For more career information, visit Indeed – Careers and HBR 

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