With increasing competition, students are pressurised to make the right career decisions. High school students are expected to be sure of the career choices that they make and that is extremely overwhelming for them. That is where the role of the parents, teachers and most importantly career counsellors is critical.
It’s important to make a plan for the future and create a long term career plan. Career options have been increasing and more diverse are now available for students to choose. It is possible to sometimes lose direction in the wide sea of opportunities out there. To make proper career decisions, it is important to find a sustainable interest that can provide you with financial and social security in the future.
A career plan lists short- and long-term career goals and the actions you can take to achieve them. Career plans can help you make decisions about what classes to take, and identify the extracurricular activities, research, and internships that will make you a strong job candidate.
Steps to create a career plan
Identify your career options
Develop a list about the career options available after considering your interests, passion, skills and career values. Narrow your career options by reviewing career information , researching about companies and talking to professionals from the field of your interest. You can also narrow down ion your options through internships and job shadowing. I have discussed all of these aspects in my blog posts earlier and are hyperlinked here too.
Prioritise
It’s not enough to list options. You have to prioritise based on your top skill. You need to prioritise based on what interests you the most. What’s most important to you? Whether it’s intellectually challenging work, work-life balance, monetary benefits, the right location.
Make Comparisons
Compare your most promising career options against your list of prioritised skills, interests and values.
Consider Other Factors.
You should consider factors beyond personal preferences. What is the current demand for this field? If the demand is low or entry is difficult, are you comfortable with risk? What qualifications are required to enter the field? Will it require additional education or training? How will selecting this option affect you and others in your life? Gather advice from friends, colleagues, and family members. Consider potential outcomes and barriers for each of your final options.
Make a Choice
Choose the career paths that are best for you. How many paths you choose depends upon your situation and comfort level. If you’re early in your planning, then identifying multiple options may be best. You may want several paths to increase the number of potential opportunities. Conversely, narrowing to one or two options may better focus your job search or graduate school applications.
Set SMART Goals
Once you’ve identified your career options, develop an action plan to implement this decision. Identify specific, time-bound goals and steps to accomplish your plan. Read about Smart goals here : Goal Setting: The Power of Setting SMART Goals
Create Your Career Action Plan
It’s important to be realistic about expectations. Write down specific action steps to take to achieve your goals and help yourself stay organised. Check them off as you complete them, but feel free to amend your career action plan as needed. Your goals and priorities may change be ready for that as that’s perfectly okay.
Meet with a Career Counsellor
Career counsellors help you make effective career decisions. Make an appointment to talk about your career options and concerns.