Step 1: What are you cut out
This is where you should start with your career
You've got choices. Choices that you need to make
about your life and career. To make these choices you need information and know
how to use it. Some people know exactly what they want from life while others
may have some idea and still others who have no idea.
Ask yourself these questions:
- What are my interests? (Data, people, things)
- How do I like to work? (Preferences)
- What are my skills/strengths? (Abilities)
- What's important to me? (Values)
If you can answer these questions, that's great.
If you're not sure or don't know, perhaps you should explore this further. On
the links below, there are a number of short 'quizzes' that might help. Try
them! They might give you some ideas. Just remember that these are only
'computer quizzes'. They might give you some ideas but it's always best to
discuss the results with someone who knows about career development. Talk with
your parents, Career Development Teacher, Guidance Counsellor, Career Resource
Assistant or someone else who may be able to help.
* These forms provide a good starting point on
your journey of self-discovery.
Step 2: What is out there for
Now that you have a good sense of what you are
cut out for, you're ready to explore what's out there. Whether you are
considering continuing on with post-secondary studies, finding work or becoming
an entrepreneur, you will need to learn more about the world of work.
Why is labour market information (LMI)
Knowledge is power! To increase the amount of
freedom and control you have over your career life, you need to understand some
things about occupations, industries and the economy. Then you'll be in a
position to make wise decisions about:
- occupations that are the best fit for you
- current job opportunities
- future job opportunities
The following four websites are a good place to
start learning more about what's out there for you, now and into the future.
Step 3: What career path will
Now that you've learned more about your likes,
dislikes, skills, abilities, values and other personal things and how they fit
with different occupations you may feel prepared to choose a career path.
Are you availing of opportunities to further
develop your skills and test your fit with potential occupations and industries?
Are you aware of the different options available to assist you? Whether you are
in Level I, II or III, or are considering leaving school, you can work on
developing your career today.
Many career and employment programs are designed
specifically to provide you with opportunities to learn more about yourself
through life/work experience. Hands-on experience is a great way for you to:
- Learn more about your abilities, values and
- Identify and develop your life/work skills.
- Learn from experienced mentors.
- Network with other people with similar
- Confirm whether or not a particular path is a
good fit for you.
Skills Development and Learning Programs
When you volunteer, you gain skills and knowledge
that may help you get paid work. You also develop qualities useful in all
workplaces: punctuality, dependability, working in teams and the ability to
handle pressure. Everyone needs practice in decision making, problem solving and