Help! I have no idea what I want to do in the future Introduction This guide will walk you through some steps you can take to consider and generate career ideas. It will also suggest some great activities to get involved with every year which will add to your preparation for life after university. Having a degree equips you for a variety of potential career options, and it can be hard to decide what you want to do after graduating. Your greatest satisfaction is usually found when your work reflects your values and motivations, your choice is therefore very personal and linked to who you are and what energises you. Do not worry if you have no idea what you would like to do in the future, many people are unsure. Changing jobs frequently in your working life is common and can be exhilarating. There are no right or wrongs when it comes to choosing a career.
Steps to help generate career ideas There is no perfect roadmap, but you can make a positive difference to your career journey by: ■
Understanding the process of making a career decision.
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Recognising the best way for you to learn and make decisions.
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Knowing yourself, your strengths, motivations and personality, and therefore what it is that you want from a career.
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Exploring the options available to you
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Planning your next steps to make it happen
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Following the recommended activities during your course to add to your experience and skills
Many experiences, people, circumstances, and issues; together with your values and beliefs will all impact on the career decisions and choices you make.
PEERS GENDER NETWORK AND CONTACTS
FINANCE LABOUR MARKET
EXPERIENCE OF LIFE AND WORK
FAMILY HAPPENSTANCE
VALUES INTERESTS PERSONALITY SKILLS
FRIENDS OPINIONS
MOBILITY QUALIFICATIONS
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PARTNER/ RELATIONSHIPS
MEDIA
