We all excel at something we enjoy doing or things we are naturally talented in, so selecting a career path that is similar to our talents or the things we enjoy, will help create a more fulfilling career. There are many different options to choose from and sometimes this can be a little mind-boggling as you try to make the best decision.
There are some important steps to take when planning your career path. Setting time aside to create your career goals and finding out the job requirements, as well as searching for the most relevant and helpful training programs, are the right steps to get you into the career of your dreams. This week, we will look at some options that will help you make great career decisions.
Set Your Career Goals
There may be a goal you have in mind, like starting a career as a nurse, or you may require further guidance to help you figure things out. If you are undecided, here are a few questions to help with your thought process, as you create your own personal goals.
- Why do you want to start a new career? Think about what fuels your passion to work within that specific field. Does motivation come through your family members? Would you like to improve your future or way of life? Are you self-motivated? Or are there other reasons?
- What are you looking for in a new career? To decide which goals are a best-fit, it is important to understand what you would like to achieve from your career path. Would you prefer a high paying salary that gives you better security? Do you need more flexible working hours to create a better work-life balance? Are you motivated to work in a field where you are able to help others? Is working from home a top priority?
- What areas are you interested in? Do you have any natural talents that will help you on your career path? Are you into technology? Do you enjoy interacting with others? Whatever your decision, select something that you excel at naturally.
- Do you plan to continue advancing your career? Creating a plan of action will help you get to your chosen career path and advance. You can begin with the basics, then work your way up in the working world.
- Where do you want to be in five years? You need to visualize where you want to be in the long run. In order to meet your career goals, you must have an idea of the end result. Would you like a new car or a dream home? Maybe you want to start a college fund for your child? Visualizing these results will continue to motivate you as you go.
Once you’ve completed your list of answers, you will be on the right track to creating a future you will thrive in. Always remember the goals you set should be SMART goals that are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and timely.
Take a look at this SMART career goal example: I want to start a career as a phlebotomy technician in Boardman within one year.
Determine Your Needs
You’ve successfully determined your goals, and now it’s time to think about what you need to achieve them. Each career path is different and will have different training requirements to help you get there.
In this stage, examine the job descriptions for the careers you are interested in pursuing. If you want to become a medical office specialist, take a look at the vacancies within your city for that role. What educational background do candidates need to have in order to apply? Is a license or certification mandatory? Do they require previous experience? When you are done reviewing the job descriptions and requirements, make a list of the things that are most relevant. This list is exactly what you need to qualify for the job.
It’s important to take note of the job qualifications, and it’s equally important to understand the option that works best for you. Here are some additional questions to help guide you.
- What is your learning style? Everyone retains information in different ways and the way we remember this information is linked to our specific learning style. Some people learn better when they hear about a topic, while others are more attentive when they are reading. Some prefer to learn with the practical approach of completing a task and seeing the outcome themselves. Finding your learning style will help improve the career training choices you make.
- What is your personality type? Our personality traits also affect how we retain information. Try taking a personality test like the Myers-Briggs Personality Type Indicator. This could help you learn more about yourself and how you can best utilize your learning style.
You now have the checklist of requirements you need in order to choose the best career training classes for you.
Research Career Training Options
Now it’s time to research the variety of career training program options that are available and choose the one that fits you best. In order to understand the options, you need to explore the programs that will help you meet your career goals and work with your specific learning style.
- Does the program train you for the specific job you want? Do you recall that list you made based on job descriptions? We created it for this question. Take that list and do a comparison of the career training programs you are considering. Does it provide you with the knowledge and skills required? Do you prepare for professional certifications? Does the program timeframe align with your career goals? Will it help you advance in your career?
- Is the school aligned with your needs? The next step to take, is to determine which school will be the best institution to meet your needs. Here are a few questions you can ask for guidance. Is there a dedicated admissions advisor that will help you understand the requirements for the application process? Are flexible financing options offered? Is the teaching style aligned to your learning style? Do students get personalized instruction?
- What support is offered to students? You need to be aware of how the school will support you as a student and also after you’ve completed your career training. Here are a few questions to ask. Is the environment supportive for students? Is additional help and tutoring offered if needed? Are there any services available that will continue to be offered even after graduation?
When you have reviewed the options, assess the pros and cons by making a list to help you decide. After you’ve evaluated the career training options, you can confidently make a selection that will allow you to have a successful career.
Get Started Today
After going through these steps, you’ve created your career goals, figured out your needs, and decided on which career training program you will attend. So now you’re ready to get started on your journey to a new career!
If you want to begin a career in the exciting field of healthcare, Boardman Training Center may be perfect for you. We offer fast-track career training programs in Cardio Phlebotomy, EKG Technician, Phlebotomy Technician, and Medical Office Specialist.
Request information and our friendly admissions advisor will work with you to design a career training plan just for you!