Career Planning – getting started

Planning or changing your career can be a daunting process. To help you on your way, here are a few basic guidelines to consider.

• Research, research, research ! Use the internet, newspapers, even your local library will have a careers section. Know what the

possibilities are and think big !

• Don’t be confused by job titles which vary from company to company – it’s the duties and responsibilities which matter. Make

a list of the aspects of your current job you enjoy and see which other types of work could also offer that.

• Temp to perm opportunities can present an excellent opportunity to try before you buy. They may also secure a way in to a role where the permanent entry requirements may be too stringent for your qualifications.

• Keep up ! – Emerging markets and new industries represent exciting development opportunities in terms of languages and skills

which may speed up your career progress. Make sure your skills are up to date and relevant for your chosen career.

• Keep an open mind – you never know what is around the corner or what may develop from what may seem like ‘nothing’. Don’t

go for jobs which are clearly unsuitable, but if in doubt about a job opportunity – check it out! At worst, it may be something

you can eliminate from your search, you may get a useful networking lead and it may even be the job of your dreams.

• Keep at it – competition for the best jobs is always going to be tough and you may not be successful first time. Think of all the

options – is there another entry path, is there an intermediate move you need to make or do you just need to stick with it?

Once you are clear about the type of work you want, consider the type of company and working environment which suits you best. Consider the size, culture, location and industry.

What type of working environment do you prefer – pressurized, calm, nurturing ?
What do you expect for your own personal development – is ongoing training a prerequisite ?
Do you want a company which can offer an established career ?
Remember that the clearer your objectives are, the more effective your job search will be.

The following websites may be useful to you.

Many of the larger job boards have useful careers advice and you may also find the following government websites useful ;

www.careersadvice.direct.gov.uk – the government’s general career site

www.prospects.ac.uk – the government’s general graduate career site

Good luck !