A Supportive & Effective Approach of a Young Adult's Career Selection
It’s hard enough trying to decide what career path to follow for your life’s work, and harder when those closest to you criticize or discourage your choice without a chance of hearing your reason or research about that career. No career is expected to be perfect, but each person needs to learn for themselves what is involved in each career. Consider those areas in a career that impact a person's life and how important those areas are. For instance, how much money do you need to earn in order to cover all your expenses? Research what it will cost for your living arrangements. In addition, how much money will it take to pay for food, utilities, transportation, clothing, healthcare, etc.? There is so much to consider when choosing your life’s career.
There are some jobs/careers which are being eliminated due to changes in technology, economics, etc. In addition, it can be very hard for a person to select one career for their lifetime. I have had some clients who have gotten into one profession and even been certified in that role after graduating from college, only to ask me to help them transition into a different career as they didn’t like their first choice.
A person should be aware of their own personality’s uniqueness – i.e. if they prefer being at a desk verses being outdoors and moving around, or if they like talking to others verses not comfortable talking to strangers, or if they like dressing in nicer clothes verses blue jeans and t-shirts, etc. Some people like sitting in front of a computer for long periods of time, where others find that boring. These are examples of work life that can make a big difference for many people. One or two days of these jobs may not be a big deal, but when talking about these routines being a part of their everyday work situations, it can make their work choice miserable.
Not everyone is suited to a “white-collar-type” job. Some have no problem getting their hands dirty, etc., and a “blue-collar job” can also be very well paid. One plumber I know makes a very handsome salary. Again, the point I am trying to relay is that each person needs to set their own priorities as what is wanted in their career choices. What you like to do, what kind of daily routine is preferred, what kind of salary is wanted to match their lifestyles, etc. These are example of a person’s priorities.
Now to the point of how to help your children, candidates, or students: it is critical to encourage a thorough career search and for each person to be honest with themselves. It can also be helpful to have that person shadow someone in the career or role that is being considered and see if their daily routine or lifestyle is acceptable after shadowing for at least a week. If unable to shadow for only a day or two, the full image of that role may not be experienced.
Once your child or student settles on a specific position or career, if you believe they have done some thorough research and that they have been honest with themselves about their preferences and habits, it is important to provide lots of encouragement and support. Also, it is wise to carefully choose where they will receive a credible and effective education and training.
One last suggestion is to consider providing your young person with the opportunity to work with a Career Coach. This could allow the candidate to receive some insight from an impartial, experienced career professional. That could help confirm the decision for all concerned.