Whether you are graduating HS and trying to “choose your future” or you’ve been in the workforce for years, but you’re ready for a change, finding your career niche is not an easy task. On the other hand, despite being challenging, it can be accomplished with this 3-step process. Explore – Plan – Act.

Explore: “Sometimes the smallest step in the right direction ends up being the biggest step of your life.”  Wise words by Emma Stone. The first step in identifying the direction you want to go –the job/career that will use your talents and interests, fit your personality, and fulfill your dreams and goals.

  • Consider taking personality and career analysis tests. These can play a huge factor in choosing which direction is best for you.

  • Personality tests: One of the most well-known and taken tests today is the Meyers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) test. The purpose of the MBTI is to help you identify your preferred way of doing things in four key areas: a) directing and receiving energy, b) taking in information, c) making decisions, and d) approaching the outside world. From these four areas come sixteen different behavior categories called personality types. It is a personality test, so it does not suggest careers, but your personality has a tremendous influence on all aspects of career life, so it’s an essential layer in your career foundation. The test costs around $50 but provides a detailed overview of your personality and natural bents.
  • Career analysis: There are multiple options available, from free to a small fee (under $20) to moderately priced ($20-150) to incredibly detailed expensive ones ($200-800). The free/small fee tests are fun, easy to complete and provide general insight. This might be enough for a High School graduate who has a reasonably good idea of which direction they want to head or a mid-streamer who is considering a career change. For more expanded results and guidance, moving into the next category will be worth your time and expense. For example, The MAPP Career Assessment, which offers three different pricing levels, is a quick test that reveals a lot of useful career information. The 71-question assessment is designed to simultaneously assess your aptitude in reasoning, data interpretation, mathematical skills, and language capacity.
  • Once you have an idea of a potential career choice or change, talk to people currently working in that area. Find out why they stay and what would potentially cause them to leave. Do your research – many skillsets are conducive to multiple careers, and most industries have numerous roles. While the point here isn’t to narrow your dream job to one specific position, gaining insight into various positions and how you would fit is vital.

Plan: “If you don’t know where you are going, you’ll end up someplace else.” These words by Yogi Berra may be humorous, but oh so true. Planning is crucial to success.

  • If you are a graduate headed to college, research/determine the knowledge, skills, and abilities you will need to develop. It will give you insight into the course of study and which degree to pursue.
  • If you are midstream in your career and ready for change and/or challenge, determine how your current skills and experience fit the direction you want to go. Do you need to take additional classes or seek certification in an area? Do you need to present your skills and experience from a different angle on your resume? Finding a career mentor could be a big plus.
  • Either way, look at your end goal and create a plan of mini-goals to get there.

Act: “The only impossible journey is the one you never begin.” As Tony Robbins is suggesting, it’s time to move forward.

  • Sign up for that first class.
  • Expand your network.
  • Find a mentor.
  • Update your resume.
  • Connect with a reputable staffing/recruiting firm.

You can do it. As the Chinese proverb says, “The best time to plant a tree is twenty years ago. The second best time is now.” Plant” your feet on the right path and start walking. The team at Robbins Staffing Solutions is behind you. We support your desire to create your career niche and fulfill your career goals. Contact us today.