Career & Transfer Services - Choosing a Career and Finding a Job

Career & Transfer Services | Choosing a Career | Finding a Job | Helpful Links

"The only way to predict the future is to create it!"

Necessary Steps in Choosing a Career
When you are ready to make a decision about what to major in or what career to pursue, take the following steps:

1. KNOW YOURSELF
This step is a critical first step! Before you can choose a major or career, you need to take stock of who you are. This entails clarifying your values, identifying your interests, and assessing your skills, those you have and those you want to learn. This process helps you to make informed and satisfying decisions about your life and career.

2. EXPLORE YOUR OPTIONS
After doing a thorough self-assessment, the next step is to gather information about majors and occupations that are a good match. The best way to get this information is through a combination of printed materials, Internet resources, talking with others, and life experience.

3. CHOOSE ONE OPTION
In order to move forward, you must choose one of your identified options and commit to it. This requires that you let go of other options, either temporarily or permanently. This may be hard if you have many options but it is possible and necessary.

4. DEVELOP AN ACTION PLAN
Developing an action plan is an art form and is a critical life skill. It takes you in the direction of realizing your chosen option and involves setting goals, identifying actions, and carrying out these actions in a purposeful manner.

5. EVALUATE YOUR DECISION
Evaluating your decision in the face of new information, personal changes, and unforeseen obstacles is important. It may be that your initial self-assessment was incomplete or that your chosen option was not the most appropriate. Whatever the reason, evaluating your decision is a positive step and can be a powerful learning experience.

Necessary Steps in Finding a Job
When it is time to find a job to support you financially while you are in school, get some career related experience before you graduate, or work full-time in your selected career field, follow these steps to finding the right job:

1. ASSESS YOUR STRENTHS AND GOALS:
Before you can market yourself to potential employers, you need to be able to clearly articulate what you have to offer and your goals for the future. This critical step is often overlooked by job seekers.

2. RESEARCH THE WORLD OF WORK:
Identify several position titles that match your interests and abilities, and locate the types of organizations that hire people for these positions. Use electronic and written sources to identify specific companies in your target geographic area.

3. CREATE SELF-MARKETING TOOLS:
Only after identifying what you want and what employers are looking for should you create a resume, cover letter and other application materials. Create a “30-second commercial” that lets people know what you are looking for and what you have to offer. Practice answering interview questions and be prepared to write follow-up and thank you letters.

4. NETWORK, NETWORK, NETWORK:
Think of everyone who might know about openings that match your career goals and people who know a lot of people. These network contacts can help you explore your options, identify jobs, and get you in front of people who have the authority to hire.

5. CONDUCT YOUR JOB SEARCH:
Only after completing the above steps should you start applying for jobs. Use reactive, traditional job search methods sparingly; use proactive methods extensively. An effective job search requires a plan, being committed to working that plan every day, and being responsible for making the next move with employers.

For assistance and/or additional information, please contact:

Judy Carbone, Coordinator of Career & Transfer Services
301-387-3046
Student Services Center, Room 412
career@garrettcollege.edu