Whether you are in school or a recent graduate, the question of “what’s next?” might be filling your mind. If your next step is undetermined, it’s possible to uncover your career goals by putting some time and energy into making your decision. Here are some steps to explore the best career options for you.

• Assess Yourself: Uncover your interests, skills and traits to show which careers would be a great fit. Self Assessment Testing (Career Testing) is a great way to uncover hidden abilities and desires.
• Make a List: Include all results into a list of occupations. Try and limit your list to five to 10 occupations. You do not want to limit or overwhelm yourself.
• Exploring your Options: This is where the bulk of your energy will be spent. For every career you listed, conduct research and look over the job description, educational and other requirements, job outlook, advancement opportunities and earnings. A great resource to use is the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Outlook Handbook (http://www.bls.gov/OCO/ ). Start by doing preliminary research. Once completed, your list should be smaller!
• Diving Deeper: Once you’re at a point where the basic job duties, salary, outlook and requirements fit what you want, explore these set career fields in more detail. It’s recommended to start off by networking. Make a list of individuals that work in this field, either by exploring local businesses and/or speaking with friends, family, former co-workers, etc. Reach out to these professionals and set-up informational interviews. See if these individuals are willing to give you an insider’s view on the day-to-day operations of the job.
• Narrow it Down: At this point, you have done the research. Narrow your list down! Keep in mind what you are willing to do and not do for a new career. Would you have to get an advanced degree? Would you have to take a pay cut? If needed, are you willing to climb the corporate ladder, starting from scratch?

• Start an Action Plan

  : Once you consider all possibilities, your search should be down to one. Now, it’s time to determine how to get to that point. Break your plan down into short- and long-term goals. Keep in mind, short-term goals should be things you can achieve in one year, while long-term goals can be reached in one to five years. List any road-blocks and possible solutions for each goal.

Sooner rather than later you’ll be on your way to the career of your choice because you put in the effort and prepared!