Top Tips for Choosing a Career
Thinking about your future can feel overwhelming, and it’s completely normal to be unsure about what you want to do. You don’t need to have everything figured out right away, the important thing is to start exploring your options and take things one step at a time.
Here are some helpful hints and tips to guide you as you plan your next steps:
1. Think About What You Enjoy
A great starting point is considering what genuinely interests you. Are there subjects or topics that excite you? For example, do you love problem-solving and working with your hands, like in engineering? You will be spending a large amount of your time in work so it is really important that you have a genuine interest in what you choose and that you enjoy what you are doing on a day-to-day basis.
2. Identify Your Strengths and Skills
What are you naturally good at? What skills do you enjoy using? It’s not always easy to recognise your own strengths, so don’t be afraid to ask friends, family, or teachers—they might see talents in you that you haven’t noticed yet!
If you’re still unsure, there are career-based questionnaires that can help you discover your interests, strengths, and abilities. A great place to start is the Skills Coach on the college website, which you can access here: Skills Coach – Stoke College
3. Explore Different Job Sectors
Do you already have a particular industry in mind, such as health and social care? If so, take some time to research the various jobs within that sector. You might be surprised to find roles you hadn’t considered before!
When researching potential careers, it’s helpful to look into:
- Different entry routes into the profession
- The qualifications required
- Whether you can enter the industry through an Apprenticeship
- Whether a university degree is necessary
- The key skills employers look for
- Work experience opportunities, including voluntary roles
If you’re unsure which industry interests you most, don’t worry! A great way to start is by exploring different job sectors through the National Careers Service Website, which provides valuable insights into a wide range of career paths:
Explore Careers – National Careers Service
4. Get Support and Advice
If you’re feeling stuck and would like to talk through your options, you can arrange a meeting with your careers advisor at school or in college—they’re there to help you navigate your options and make informed decisions about your future.
Remember, there’s no right or wrong path, and your career journey is unique to you. Take your time, do your research, and don’t be afraid to ask for help along the way.
By Chrissy Pawliszyn
Careers and Progression Lead at Stoke on Trent College
