Figuring out how to choose a career can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure where to start. Not everyone knows what they want to do from a young age, and with so many paths to consider, it’s easy to get stuck wondering, “How do I choose a career that’s right for me?”
The process involves reflecting on your interests, values, and skills, and then matching them with opportunities that align with your long-term goals.
Making a career choice begins with exploring options that excite you, even if they don’t seem obvious right away. This article will offer practical tips and expert advice, so you can make an informed decision and find a career that fits.
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How to choose a career—when you're starting from zero
Wondering, “How do I choose a career with no idea?” Instead of waiting for a lightning-bolt moment of clarity, focus on discovering more about yourself and the opportunities that are out there. Remember, choosing a profession doesn’t have to be an exact science; it’s a journey of exploration, trial, and reflection.
First, identify your core strengths and interests
Make a list of what you enjoy doing and what you’re naturally good at. Ask yourself: Do these things align with a specific industry or role? Which ones stand out? As you reflect, you can start building a list of potential career paths that match both your skills and interests.
“Reflecting on what you truly enjoy and where you excel can help align your career with both personal fulfillment and professional aspirations,” says career coach Janel Abrahami. “It’s equally important to consider how your strengths can translate into different roles and industries.”
For example, if you excel in communication and empathy, you may thrive in relationship-building roles, while analytical thinkers often find success in data-driven industries.
Consider your lifestyle and values
Think about what matters most to you. Is flexibility a priority? Do you value creativity, stability, or making an impact? Taking the time to reflect on these questions will help you choose a career that not only suits your skills but also aligns with your aspirations. Choose a career that fits your needs and supports your long-term vision.
Explore online assessments
Online tests can help identify roles that align with your strengths and interests. They usually check out your skills, personality traits, and values to suggest career paths that might be a good fit. By trying out these tests, you can discover new opportunities and get a better idea of what might work for you.
Not sure how to choose a career quiz or even a personality assessment? These might help:
Try new things
Volunteer, take on part-time gigs, or even pursue a hobby. Getting hands-on experience in different fields will help you uncover what excites you—and what doesn’t.
Stay open-minded and curious. Sometimes the best way to choose your career is to start exploring paths without knowing exactly where they’ll lead.
Choosing a profession—and making sure it's right for you
If you already have a sense of the field you’re interested in or know the types of things you enjoy doing, you’re well on your way. Below are some tips to help guide your decision:
Look at the future of the industry you're considering
Research where the field is headed. Are there opportunities for growth? Will your skills still be in demand five or ten years from now?
“It’s essential to pursue a career that excites you, but it’s equally important to ensure there’s potential for growth and stability in that field,” Abrahami says.
Research roles within your field of interest
Dive deeper into job descriptions, growth potential, and daily responsibilities of different positions to see what resonates most with you. (Here at The Muse, you can filter job opportunities by category, industry, experience level, and more.)
Take advantage of informational interviews or externships
Informational interviews are casual chats with people in a specific field that offer valuable insights into their careers. They give you a real glimpse into what it's like to work in a particular profession, helping you understand the everyday responsibilities and challenges involved. Externships, on the other hand, provide hands-on experience in a real work environment, allowing you to apply what you’ve learned and see the day-to-day operations up close.
Celebrate the idea of growth
Your first choice doesn’t have to be forever. “A common mistake is overthinking the ‘perfect’ career,” Abrahami says. “Many people wait for the ideal role to appear, rather than starting somewhere and refining their path as they gain experience.” Consider each step as a learning opportunity that brings you closer to finding what truly aligns with you.
Bonus tip: Embrace the evolving landscape of work
One increasingly popular career path is that of the portfolio career—where you work across multiple roles or industries rather than following a traditional, linear career trajectory in a single field. “It can lead to more earning potential, greater professional purpose, and increased social support to combat the loneliness often felt in professional life,” Abrahami says.
Echoing this shift, there’s a growing demand in areas like sustainability, remote work optimization, and mental health support. “Even traditionally 'stable' sectors like finance and healthcare are being reshaped by these trends, which could offer exciting and unique opportunities for the future,” says Hiren Shah, Hiring Manager and founder of Anstrex.
These emerging fields present fresh opportunities for individuals willing to adapt and explore diverse roles, making portfolio careers even more attractive for those seeking growth in today's dynamic work environment.
FAQs
Why can't I decide what career to choose?
Struggling to decide on a career often stems from overwhelming options, uncertainty about your strengths and interests, or fear of making the wrong choice. External pressures and uncertainty about future trends—such as how industries will evolve—can add to the confusion, making it harder to commit. Reflecting on these factors and seeking guidance from career coaches or mentors can help you gain more clarity and direction.
How to choose a career after high school?
Choosing a career after high school involves balancing self-reflection with real-world research. Start by evaluating your personal strengths and interests—what subjects did you excel in, and what activities energized you during high school? From there, explore options like apprenticeships, internships, or vocational training if you’re not immediately pursuing college.
Talking to career counselors, shadowing professionals, or even attending career fairs can give you a clearer picture of different pathways, whether that’s higher education or entering the workforce directly.
How to choose a career for students?
For students, especially those in college or vocational programs, choosing a career is often about aligning your studies with future job prospects. Begin by assessing the subjects or courses you enjoy the most and think about how they connect to specific industries. Utilize campus resources like career centers, internships, and networking events to gain hands-on experience and connect with professionals in your field of interest. Career quizzes or aptitude tests can also provide useful insights by matching your skills and interests with potential careers.