LibGuides: Career Exploration and Job Preparation: Career Exploration

Introduction

The more you learn about your career industry, the job type you are interested in, the specific position you are applying for, and the company you would like to work for, the more prepared you will be for the application process. Do not underestimate the power of preparation. Do your research. It can save you time and money in the long run.

Tip: Create a brain dump page (Word doc or paper) to alleviate a cluttered mind. This page helps you remember and organize important thoughts and information. Organize your brain dump page in an outline format to keep important information readily available. It is a very useful tool in your toolbox.

Brain Dump Page

When thinking about which careers are best for you use your brain dump page to jot down notes and questions/answers about each career.

Things to consider when exploring careers:

Will you enjoy what you do and feel a sense of purpose?
What careers match your personality?
What is the job market for this type of career in my area? Will I have to relocate?
What is the salary range for this type of career in your area?
What is the typical work schedule/hours for this career (i.e. shift work, nights, weekends, long days, etc.)?
Will I have to travel? If so, how often and how far?
What will it take for me to enter into this field and be successful (i.e. certification, apprenticeship, college degree, internships, etc.)?
Is there a wide variety of different job options within the scope of this career? (example: the medical field/nursing offer many different opportunities and paths)
What will my future look like in this career (think about retirement)?
What benefits are offered (health insurance, dental insurance, paid time off, etc.)
What is the work/life balance of jobs in this field?

Tip: Ask potential employers if you can schedule a job shadow. Job shadowing is simply spending a few hours or a day at the job. Depending on your experience they may let you perform the actual job or they could pair you with an employee(s) that will show you what it's like to work there.

Career Sites

16 Personalities
Personality Test that provide an accurate description of who you are and why you do things the way you do. Also provides tools and assessments for career planning and personal growth.
Skills Matcher
Use this online tool to identify positions that match your skills. Rate your levels on 40 key workplace skills. We’ll show you careers that match your ratings.
Career One Stop
Great website that provides valuable resources for career exploration, training, and jobs.
Indeed Career vs. Job
Explains the difference between a career and a job.
Indeed Career Guide
Information and resources to help you achieve your career goals.
Linkedin
LinkedIn is the world's largest professional network on the internet. You can use LinkedIn to find the right job or internship, connect and strengthen professional relationships, and learn the skills you need to succeed in your career.
O*NET
O*NET is the nation's primary source of occupational information. Valid data are essential to understanding the rapidly changing nature of work and how it impacts the workforce and U.S. economy.
O&NET Career Exploration Tools
O*NET® self-directed career exploration/assessment tools to help workers consider and plan career options, preparation, and transitions more effectively. They are also for use by students who are exploring the school-to-work transition.
ASVAB
The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is a multiple-aptitude battery that measures developed abilities and helps predict future academic and occupational success in the military.
Ag Explorer
Explore careers in Agriculture.