Exploring the world of work can seem like a huge task but it’s really like any other project: break it down into steps. This section has the best tools to get you started on your exploration.
Start your exploration of the world of work by reading and completing some of assessments in Discovering Your Interests and Skills. Make a list of jobs you feel best suits you. From your list, pick a few jobs that sound most interesting as a starting point.
After you decide which job or work industry you are going to investigate, you can complete various tasks, and explore many resources available to you, including:
- Informational interviews
- Job shadowing
- Networking for success
- Library/online research
- School career center
- Newspaper business section
- Business journals
You may want to invest more time in exploring and experiencing work industries by taking advantage of one of the following:
- Internships
- Volunteer work
- Part-time or temporary work
Regardless of where you begin, as you explore, always keep in mind YOUR skills, interests, hobbies, values, and personality.
Helpful Hint: Are the jobs you’re investigating a match for your talents and interests? Find out by talking with people who are working in those jobs and people who know you well and who can help you evaluate potential matches objectively.