Deciding what to do after high school can seem daunting, but considering your skills, interests and goals will help you to choose the right path for you.
It’s okay to take some time to explore your options – here are a few questions to ask yourself before you take your first steps on your career pathway.
What do I enjoy and/or find interesting?
Let’s face it – most of us spend a significant part of our lives working!
You're more likely to feel good about investing time and effort into your job when you are genuinely interested in it.
You may also enjoy feeling a sense of purpose when your work is compatible with your interests and values.
What am I good at?
By choosing a career that fits your natural strengths and abilities, you may be more likely to enjoy your work.
It is also easier to perform well and achieve success in your job when you’re good at it.
What is important to me?
Consider what you want from your ideal role. Would you like to maintain a healthy work-life balance? Are you interested in quickly climbing the corporate ladder, or in earning as much money as possible? Are you drawn to roles that offer the chance to be creative, or to help others?
By aligning your values to your career choice, you’ll enjoy greater job satisfaction.
What career opportunities exist in my areas of interest?
After identifying fields that suit your interests and strengths, spend some time researching the different roles, salary ranges and career progression opportunities in these sectors.
If you’re in New Zealand, the website careers.govt.nz is a great place to start.
What are my goals?
Reflect on where you would like your career to take you, both in the short-term and in the long-term.
You may find it helpful to consider things like job availability, job stability and growth potential in your fields of interest.
What skills and training do I need?
For many careers, it can be useful or necessary to gain a tertiary qualification first. These range from certificates through to degrees, and there are more flexible and accessible learning opportunities available than ever before.
It may also be possible to learn all you need to know by gaining on-the-job experience, or through micro-credentials, apprenticeships or other work-based learning opportunities.
How can I gain work experience?
Take a look online for internships or part-time jobs in the fields that interest you, or research workplaces you could offer to volunteer in.
This will give you a taste of what the work involves so you can decide if it’s the right fit for you – all while gaining valuable experience along the way.
Do I have to stay in one job or field forever?
Not at all! It’s never been easier to embark on a new career or to retrain in a new field.
Many people will switch careers several times throughout their lives, so don’t be concerned that you’ll be stuck in one particular job for life.
Remember that your career path can – and will – evolve over time. Try to remain open to new opportunities along the way!