12 Jul Discovering Your Ideal Job
Discovering Your Ideal Job
I think that one of the worst questions you can ask a job seeker is “What job are you looking for?” In today’s rapidly changing and fast-paced world, finding the right job that aligns with your skills, interests, and values can be a daunting task, especially with new types of jobs and industries opening up almost daily! The key to job satisfaction and career success lies in identifying the type of work that truly inspires and fulfills you. To embark on this journey of self-discovery, it is crucial to assess your strengths, explore your passions, and gain clarity about your professional goals.
Self-Reflection:
The first thing to remember, is that you are looking for a career to do, not a job title to call yourself, so focus on the duties you want to perform in your next position. The best determinator of the future, is the past, so start by considering these questions:-
- Which previous job did you love the most/ like the least? Why?
- Which subjects at school/ tertiary education did you love the most/ like the least? Why?
- Which subjects at school/ tertiary education did you do the best/ worst? Why?
- Hypothetically, if you asked your boss what your greatest strengths/ weaknesses are, what would they say?
- If you asked your best friend what your greatest strengths/ weaknesses are, what would they say?
- What part of your current position do you like the most/ least?
Another great way for self- reflection is writing down your thoughts. When you put your thoughts onto paper, it helps with cognitive processing, because you have to express your thoughts in a different medium.
Explore Different Industries and Roles:
Expand your knowledge of various industries and job roles to discover new possibilities. Research online, read industry publications, and attend career fairs or networking events to gain exposure to different fields. Informational interviews with professionals in fields of interest can offer valuable insights into their day-to-day responsibilities and the skills required for success. Volunteering or internships can also provide hands-on experience and help you test the waters before committing to a particular career path.
Experiment and Seek Experiences:
Sometimes, figuring out the right job involves trial and error. Embrace opportunities to try out different roles, projects, or internships. Internships, part-time jobs, or freelance work can provide valuable experiences and help you refine your preferences. Look for opportunities to shadow professionals or engage in job shadowing programs to gain firsthand exposure to potential careers. By actively seeking new experiences, you can gather information about different industries and roles while building a diverse skill set.
Seek Professional Guidance and Mentorship:
Don’t hesitate to seek guidance from career counsellors, mentors, or educational psychologists who can offer valuable advice. They can help you navigate the job market, provide insights about specific industries, and share their own career journeys. Networking platforms and professional associations are excellent resources to connect with individuals who can guide you towards suitable job opportunities.
Experiment with Side Projects:
Side projects or hobbies can be an excellent way to explore your interests further. Consider pursuing passion projects, joining relevant communities, or starting a blog or YouTube channel. These activities not only allow you to develop new skills but also provide insights into what truly excites and motivates you. This is particularly beneficials is you are interested in incorporating Digital Marketing or design into future positions.
Continuous Learning:
In an ever-evolving job market, continuous learning is essential. Explore online courses, workshops, or certification programs to expand your knowledge and stay up to date with industry trends. Continued learning not only enhances your skills but also opens doors to new opportunities and helps you adapt to changing job requirements. There are lots of free/ affordable resources on the internet if you just look!
Consider your Transferrable Skills:
Transferrable skills are skills that can be transferred from one job or industry to another. If you are considering changing industries or professions, building on your transferrable skills is how you will build on your earning potential.
Finally- don’t over think it, and look for opportunities, not obstacles in your journey to the dream job. If you meet 75% of the requirements for a position- apply! If you are selected for an interview- always attend! You will the most and discover the most about yourself when you actually take action. Good luck!
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