Suggestions given to help prepare for a future career
Use all resources available in getting on the right track––the sooner the better

You’re a high-school senior or a college sophomore and you have yet to decide on a career. That’s understandable. It takes a while to ferret out the things you like to do and those you do best.

Sooner or later, however, you’ll want to decide on a career that fits you best. So how do you prepare for a career? Here are some tips to help you:

Get a college education. It goes almost without saying that in today’s competitive economy the more education you get the better your chances of achieving your career dreams.

Years ago, a high-school diploma and a willingness to work were all most people needed to break into the job market.

Now you need both a good education and some extra preparation that relates to job knowledge and skills. What you earn later depends on what you learn today.

Make a list to get started. Jot down things you enjoy doing - anything from playing a musical instrument and caring for animals to helping with the family garden.

Then make a list of things you’re good at - things that seem to come easily. Compare the two lists to see if there are any matches. If you really like to do something and do it well, you might be able to make a living doing it.

Talk to adults. Your parents, relatives or your boss, if you work

part time, can help with advice. Ask them how they would go about choosing a career if they were just starting out.

Teachers can help you map career plans and your school guidance counselor can give you aptitude tests to identify your natural strengths.

Know what employers want. They want people who can work productively, think independently and act decisively.

Workers who haven’t developed these skills face an uphill road to reach their goals.

Do research on career fields. One good source is the Occupational Outlook Handbook, published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Found in most libraries, it lists just about every type of job in America and the education and skills needed to get it.

To learn more, order a free copy of the Life Advice pamphlet "Preparing for a Career" by calling toll free at (800) 638-5433.