Determining the Right Degree for You

Choosing a career path is an important decision that most people make at least once in a lifetime. There should be a lot of thought given to the process. A career will generally determine how much money you make. As a function of finances, the choice will tend to dictate where and how you live. Here are eight ways to find the right career for you.

1. Take a Career Assessment Test

A career assessment test can help narrow down options when you are unsure of what you would like to do for a job. These tests can help you get clearer on your strengths and skills.

Many people aren't completely clear on their talents and abilities. A career assessment test can be a great tool to find a position that you will thrive in. Whether you are thinking you may wish to go to coding bootcamp or culinary school, a career assessment can help.

2. Consider the Things You Enjoy Doing

When making the big decision to choose a career path, it is a good idea to consider the things you enjoy doing. A career focused around your interests or hobbies will energize you.

3. Choose a Few Occupations to Explore

There is no reason to rush a career choice. Take some time to write down several job ideas. Then do some research into all of the options. When you thoroughly explore options, you may be surprised by what you find.

A seemingly best choice of career may not actually end up aligning with your interests and values. While a different career path could really stand out when you do a little homework on options.

4. Be Clear on Your Goals

When you have a clear goal of the lifestyle you would like to achieve, the choice of a career becomes easier. Do you want to live in a large city? Or do you think the slower pace of country life is the way you want to live.

A clear goal will help you work out the details of your career choice.

5. Decide on the Work Environment You Would Prefer

Some people prefer to work alone while others enjoy being a part of a large team. When you decide on the work environment you would like best, you narrow down the career choices considerably.

Working for a large corporation with hundreds or thousands of employees is an option that many people choose. Others thrive in small companies or a work-from-home environment.

6. Consider Hiring a Career Coach

A career coach can be a big asset when making the choice of a career. It doesn't matter if it is your first career or your third. A good career coach will provide aid in assessing your talents and interests. They can offer suggestions and point you in the right direction if you are unsure of the direction you are headed in.

7. Conduct Your Own Interviews

Once you narrow down your list of potential careers, set up some meetings with other people in the field. Your network of contacts is the best source to ask for introductions to new people. Ask friends and family if they know anyone you could speak with.

Go into the interview with a list of questions. Move through your questions and note the answers provided by the other person.

8. Know Who You Are

Everyone is different. You may be an introvert or an extrovert. You may be a creative type. Maybe you are a serious person. Perhaps you are extremely confident. Or you are a very friendly person. When you find a job that works with your personality type, you will be happy, thrive and meet your goals.

Choosing the right career is always a big decision. Keep in mind that many people have multiple careers in a life. So, while the choice of career is important, you can change your path anytime you want.