Unsplash

Deciding which career you’d like to pursue isn’t easy. You might be just starting out, or looking for a career change? To help you on your journey, check out these five straightforward tips.

1 . What’s most important?

If you want to find the perfect career, you’ve got to figure out what’s most important to you. Are you looking for a career that helps others? Perhaps you’re looking for a career with the highest earning potential? You might what to return to your passions, and focus on your key strengths? Figuring out what’s most important to you is the first step to finding the perfect career.

2. Work with a careers coach

Working with a careers coach can help you to move in the right direction. A careers coach can help you to establish your strengths and your desires. Your coach will help you with your resume and cover letters, and to practice interview scenarios. A careers coach can offer plenty of resources and advice to help you find the perfect role. You’ll go through a series of personality tests, to find a career that’s a good fit. Before you choose a coach, it’s a good idea to read some online reviews. You’ll want to find a professional who is the right fit.

For example, if you need help with putting together a winning resume, then your careers coach will be able to point you in the direction of a professional resume writing service such as ARC Resumes in California or a similar service in your local area. Whether you are just getting started in your career, or have been working all of your life, a strong resume can help you to impress a potential employer so do not be afraid to seek a professional opinion on your current resume.

3. Build a personal brand

Once you’ve figured out which kind of career you’d like to pursue, it’s a good idea to build a personal brand. Create a website, a blog, and social profiles. Use your profiles and your website to showcase your brand, and tell people exactly who you are. When you’re developing a personal brand, these questions may be useful:

• What’s unique about my career path? How can I express this in my brand?

• What sets me apart from similar professionals?

• How can I tell the story of my career to date?

• Which career goals are most important to me?

  
  

4. Network to boost your career

Networking can help you to make progress on your career journey. By making the right connections you might just land yourself an exciting new role. Start off with online networking opportunities using sites like Linked In. You can also check out networking apps like LunchClub, Shapr, Clubhouse or Bizzabo.

To find in-person networking events, try using sites like Meetup. The website has info about lots of interesting networking events, particularly for entrepreneurs. Networking is one of the best ways to boost your career.

5. Conduct plenty of research

To find the perfect career, it’s important to conduct plenty of research. Look at educational articles and listen to talks by industry thought leaders. Check out podcasts, and reach out to respected professionals online. To make a start, this article on Nathaniel Whittle has some interesting info about establishing a career as an Actuary. For further resources check out ezines like Jobs and Careers.

Choosing the right career is no easy task. It’s important to take your time, educating yourself on all the options.