Career development guide
Without censoring yourself, write down the options you are considering as well as relevant information you have on each option. This will allow you to examine the possibilities simultaneously and to evaluate each option’s potential.
To narrow your choices, thoroughly review the aspects influencing your decision, such as time investment, potential for satisfaction, income and geographical location. Based on your priorities, establish your evaluation criteria.
Also, list the potential pros and cons. This systematic approach enables you to assess each option by the same standard.
When making a decision, it is important to consider potential obstacles. To prevent these challenges from impeding your progress, anticipate obstacles for each option and identify possible solutions.
People with experience have gained important knowledge, which makes them an excellent resource. Don’t hesitate to ask them for advice and to learn from their professional and personal experience.
Examples of individuals you can consult are friends, family, professors, alumni, professionals working in the field and the Career Development Centre team.
Making a decision can feel like an intimidating process. However, using the proposed process—identifying, evaluating and comparing your options, anticipating potential obstacles and seeking advice—will prepare you to make an informed decision. Remember, career development is not a linear process; therefore, the decisions you make can often be modified or changed later.
Unforeseen circumstances can disrupt even the best career plans. Therefore, it is prudent to have a back-up plan or plans, including a different path or a detour improving your chances of success.
Use the previous subsections to identify your backup plan.
