Before technology became so advanced, the choice of career path for the average Nigerian, to a great extent depended on our parents.
For them, one was only successful if he or she were to be a medical doctor, a lawyer, or an Engineer. Surprisingly, not many of them (parents) were professionals in the occupations mentioned above.
The Nigerian child or youth now has much of a say as to what he or she wants to become in life. Now, the question is how do we make an informed decision on the right career path? We shall highlight this by discussing the factors to consider when choosing your career.
Here are five Factors to Consider When Choosing a Career Path :
1. Passion
Having a passion for what you do is arguably the most common advice on choosing a career. As cliché as that advice is, it is one that cannot be neglected for years to come.
You need to love what you do in order for your job to mean something to you. The good thing about life is its myriad of good or bad choices.
These choices are also extended to programs of study out there for the varying careers desired. You have many options to choose from- bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, Certifications, etc.
Having an idea of what you might want to study is a great start as you can begin to explore possible careers and programs of study that might fit what you want to do.
2. Financial Resources
Have you ever heard of the saying that the more you learn, the more you earn? Well if you haven’t you just did and it’s a proven fact. The higher your level of education, the higher your average annual income.
Your choice of career can have an impact on your potential earnings in the coming years. Education should be seen as a long-term investment. You may not see its ripple effect immediately, as it may take a while before you start earning a high salary but one thing is for sure, you definitely will.
For this reason, carefully consider your available financial resources.
3. Consider Your Values and Lifestyle
Your values and lifestyle are also important factors to consider when choosing a career path. Do you value stability and security, or are you willing to take risks for greater rewards? Do you want a job that offers flexible hours or one that requires a set schedule? Consider your personal priorities and make sure the career you choose aligns with them.
4. Economy: Know The Job Market
One pertinent question that should be on your mind would be: Can I find a Job after I graduate? The job market can have its ups and downs. It helps to keep abreast with the careers that are in high demand right now, and are anticipated to be in high demand in the future.
Trust us when we say, you do not want to stay at home feeding off your parents months after graduation. When looking at possible careers, look at the projected growth and demand, along with the current unemployment trends.
Taking both into account can give you a better picture of what the demand for your career will be in the future.
5. Research Different Career Options
The next step is to research different career options. There are numerous resources available to help you with this, including the Internet, books, and career counseling centers. Take the time to look into different industries, job descriptions, and salaries. This will give you a good idea of what each career entails and whether it aligns with your skills and interests. It’s also a good idea to talk to people in the field to get their insight and advice.
