We’re always asking ourselves if we’re good enough, or qualified enough to succeed our future career.
But we probably don’t ask ourselves enough if our career will be right for us, and if we really understand what a life lived in that career will mean.
Here are four easy ways to figure out if a career is right for you.
1. Look into the future
A 2015 report from the Foundation for Young Australians found that 60% of Australian students are training for jobs that either won’t exist in the future or, will be completely different thanks to new technologies. Bookkeeping and accounting are prime examples of jobs that are expected to be less in demand as software improves.
You have no real way of knowing what the future holds but, your career is for life, so you may as well arm yourself with as much knowledge as possible.
Your career might be looking like a good option right now. But what will it be like in 10 years? 20 years?
The demand for your career, as well the as pay rates, work locations, style and flexibility can change dramatically in that time.
Get online and do some solid research to make sure that your future job is also future-proofed.
2. Talk to a REAL person who works in the job
Going straight to the source cuts out a lot of the mystery.
Reach out to a professional in your field and ask them what their life is like. Find out what the biggest daily challenges are, the most rewarding things and the impact their job has on their lifestyle.
If you’re struggling to find someone to speak to in person, try asking on a forum, a LinkedIn page, or attending a career expo.
3. Join your ‘peak body’
Find out who your industry’s peak representative body is and join up.
As well as opportunities to meet people in the field, you’ll be able to attend events, seminars and workshops.
These bodies provide information on codes and ethics for your industry, but also allow members to be a part of a bigger conversation about current industry trends and issues.
4. Volunteer or Intern
This is a no-brainer, but it’s the best possible way to get a sense of what your future may hold. Start cold calling, sending emails and sending out those resumes, because there’s no better way to find out if a job is right for you, than by doing it for real by finding volunteer work or an internship.
Even if you can’t get to do the exact job you want, you’ll be able to meet and observe real professionals and get an idea of what a day in the job is like.
Happy career hunting everyone!
