Career Planning

When it comes to careers, you’ve got to plan ahead! Career plans enable you to focus on what you want to do and what steps you need to take to get there. After all, careers are a lifelong process not just a stop-gap. We define and redefine ourselves constantly throughout our lives, and our job can help us do that. It is a good idea to start by making a career plan that clearly pinpoints your skills, interests, and your desired career routes in order to help you choose and get into the right career for you.

1 Make a list of your skills, talents and interests. You won’t be able to start planning your career unless you know what you’re good at and where your interests lie. Think carefully about what jobs you are interested in and whether you possess the skills you need to succeed in that career area. Evaluate what you want to do and what you are suited to doing.

2 Make a list of jobs that you are both interested in doing and which are suited to the skills and qualities you possess. Weigh up your options and then take action – you may need to gain experience in the industry or gain specific qualifications. Research thoroughly what you need to do to break into this career area, set your mind to it and start making it happen! It is a good idea to do a work placement or internship in the area of work you want to get into so that you can be sure if it is really for you.

3 Once you are sure you have chosen the right career, assess what you need to do in order to be successful in it. Do you need to gain any qualifications or do any further training? Would it be an advantage if you gained some further training, additional qualifications, or work experience? How is previous experience you have of benefit to you in this role?

4 Start looking for suitable job vacancies in your chosen career area and apply for these positions accordingly. It is a good idea to send your CV to places where you would like to work as well as perseverance and initiative is often rewarded.

If you follow these tips and make a realistic career plan you will be on your way to career success in no time. Good luck!