How To Discover Your Next Career Move

Introduction.

Finding the right career path can feel overwhelming. With so many options out there, how do you know which direction to take?

Whether you’re fresh out of school, thinking about a job switch, or exploring new opportunities after a career break, figuring out your next move is an important decision. It’s not just about finding a job—it’s about finding work that feels meaningful and fulfilling for you.

I want to walk you through some steps to make this process a bit easier. I’ll cover ways to reflect on what you enjoy, how to identify your strengths, and how to research industries that might be the right fit for you. By the end, I hope you’ll feel a little more confident about taking that next step.

Why Your Career Choice Matters

Your career plays a huge role in your overall well-being. Studies show that people who are satisfied with their work are generally happier and healthier.

According to a 2023 LinkedIn study, about 60% of professionals said they would leave a job that doesn’t align with their values. This isn’t just about money—it’s about finding something that clicks with your skills, values, and goals.

Step 1: Get Clear on What You Want

The first step to discovering your next career move is understanding yourself. Ask yourself:

What tasks or activities excite me the most?
What do I want my day-to-day work life to look like?
Are there causes or industries I feel passionate about?

It helps to reflect on what you’ve enjoyed in your previous roles or school projects. If you love working with numbers, you might explore finance, data analysis, or accounting. If you enjoy solving problems creatively, marketing, design, or entrepreneurship might suit you.

Step 2: Know Your Strengths

Everyone has unique skills and talents. Pinpointing yours can help you narrow down your options. Here’s how:

Take a skills inventory: List out your hard skills (like coding, graphic design, or writing) and soft skills (like communication, leadership, or time management).
Ask for feedback: Sometimes others see strengths you might overlook. Talk to friends, colleagues, or mentors.
Use tools: Assessments like CliftonStrengths or 16Personalities can give you insights.

Remember, your strengths don’t just come from work or school. Hobbies, volunteer work, or personal projects can also show you what you’re great at.

Step 3: Explore Industries and Roles

Once you know what you like and what you’re good at, start exploring options. Research industries that align with your interests and values. You can:

Use online resources: Websites like LinkedIn, Glassdoor, or O*NET let you explore careers and get insights into different industries.
Talk to people in the field: Informational interviews are a great way to learn from professionals. Most people are happy to share advice if you reach out politely.
Try it out: If possible, shadow someone, take on freelance work, or even intern in a new field.

For example, if you’re considering a career in tech, try taking an online course in programming or UX design. Platforms like Coursera or Codecademy offer beginner-friendly options.

Step 4: Set Goals and Make a Plan

Once you have a clearer picture, it’s time to set some goals. Break them into small, actionable steps to make them more manageable. For instance:

Update your resume to highlight relevant skills.
Build a portfolio if needed (especially for creative fields).
Start networking with professionals in your chosen industry.
Apply for jobs or internships that fit your plan.

Step 5: Keep Learning

The world of work changes fast. Staying adaptable and continuing to learn can open doors you didn’t even know existed.

Sign up for workshops, attend webinars, or read industry blogs. Not only does this help you stay competitive, but it also shows potential employers that you’re committed to growing.

FAQs

1. How do I know if I’m making the right choice?

No one has a crystal ball, but try to focus on what feels right for now. It’s okay to make changes down the road if your interests shift.

2. What if I don’t have experience in the field I want to join?

Start small. Look for entry-level roles, internships, or volunteer opportunities to build your experience. Upskilling through online courses can also make a big difference.

3. Is it okay to switch careers later in life?

Absolutely. Many people pivot to new careers in their 30s, 40s, or even beyond. It’s never too late to pursue work that excites you.

4. What if I don’t know what I’m passionate about?

Passion isn’t always clear right away. Focus on what you enjoy or are curious about and explore from there. Sometimes passion grows as you gain more experience in a field.

Conclusion

Deciding on your next career move takes time and effort, but it’s worth it. By reflecting on your strengths, exploring industries, and setting clear goals, you can find a path that’s both rewarding and sustainable. The journey might have its ups and downs, but every step you take is progress.

So, what’s the one thing you can do today to get closer to your next career move?