There is no pressure on having a set out career plan but by following the guidance and advice below might help you start to plan your next steps:
Choosing a sector you are interested in:
- Identify what you enjoy and what your passions are.
- Explore different industry sectors out there (Construction, Health and Social Care, Beauty, Finance etc.).
- List down your core skills including your education grades, qualifications, strengths (Microsoft office, speaking to people etc.) and match these to job descriptions (customer services or finance if you are good with numbers and data etc.).
- Look at your long-term goals.
- Research jobs that are in high demand and see if you like the look of any.
- Consider apprenticeships that will have an outcome such as a qualification and progression opportunities. For more information about apprenticeships, please visit the Department for Education website here
- Seek guidance, speak to job centers, career advisors and mentors. Helpful information can be found via National Careers Service Advice, Jobcentre Plus and Suffolk Thrive below.
National Careers Service Advice Jobcentre Plus Suffolk Thrive
- Be open minded/ take a chance on something different.
- Some positions require specific qualifications so before applying look into what is needed or if there are ways around it so you can prepare if shortlisted for an interview. This prevents you applying for positions that do not fit your skills. There are options such as college or online courses if you are set on a particular career path which requires certain qualifications, and some companies will also put you through them after probation. In doubt, ask to speak to someone who can provide further information about the role you would like to know more about.
