Step 3: Make a decision

By now you should be better informed about the range of options open to you.  You will hopefully have a list of possible careers that interest you. Remember that there isn’t a single perfect career for you. There are usually a range of possibilities that would suit you.

Having too many choices will confuse you and slow you down. Focus on a few ideas at a time. Remember that you can always review and adapt your plans and goals as they develop and take shape.

Ask key questions

Now consider the following questions for each of your possible careers:

  • Does this career match my personality?
  • Does this career match my lifestyle choice and personal values?
  • Does the thought of working in this career make me feel positive?
  • Is this industry very competitive?
  • Do I understand what this job entails or do I need to find out more?
  • Do recent graduates usually go straight into this type of work?
  • Are there a series of stepping stones which would help me to get where I want to be?
  • Do I need to get more work experience/develop any new skills?

This process will hopefully narrow down your options and produce a clear idea that you can follow and use to make an action plan.

Are you still feeling unsure?  If you are, go back to the earlier stages in the career planning process. Review your initial choices in the light of the research you did subsequently. You can always scrap your research and start again from the beginning.

Don't be afraid to take a step back if it means you can move forward more productively. Come in and talk to one of our careers counsellors if you need help

Be flexible

Always be ready to modify the plans you make. Remain open to the possibility of lucky breaks, random opportunities and brain waves. The best opportunities are often unexpected.

contentbox-tick-orange.gifStep 4 is to use your decision and the research you have already done to make an action plan.