Having the right career is important as it can determine pride, self-image, living standards, and social circles. Standard of living refers to quality of goods and services affordable and can be minimal for basic needs or high for additional wants. Choosing a career involves considering personality, interests, skills, life goals, and current job trends in fields like health, computers, education and business which are in demand now and foreseeably.

1. Career Planning

2. Having the Right Career Can…Be a source of great prideGive you a positive self-image and sense of accomplishmentDetermine where you live and who your friends areLargely determine your standard of living

3. Standard of LivingStandard of Living: Refers to the way you live as measured by the kinds and quality of goods and services you can afford

4. Standard of LivingMinimal Standard of Living: Provides little more than your basic needs (wholesome food, clothing, shelter, and health care)High Standard of Living: Provides for the wants in addition to the needs in your life (cars, appliances, entertainment, dining out, and vacations)

5. Determining Your CareerThings to Consider:Your PersonalityYour InterestsYour SkillsYour Life’s GoalsCurrent Job Trends

6. Your Personality…Are you quiet and shy OR the life of the party?Are you full of energy OR a slow starter?Are you a risk taker OR more conservative and cautious?If your personality matches a job’s requirements, you are more likely to perform well and enjoy what you do!

7. Your Interests…What makes you happy?What do you like to do and what are you good at doing?What hobbies and activities fascinate you?What are your best subjects in school?What previous work or volunteer experience did you enjoy?Answers to the previous questions could be a huge key in determining a rewarding career that is based on things you value and on things at which you excel.

8. Your Skills…Aptitudes: your natural talentsAbilities: skills you have learnedYou will find more success when your aptitudes and abilities align with your career choice.Look into taking an aptitude test through the Career Center or through a college in which you are interested.

9. Your Life’s Goals…Would you like to get married?Would you like to have children?Would you like to own a home?Would you like to own a new car?Would you like to travel or take vacations?Consider how achieving your life’s goals may ultimately depend on the career you choose.

10. Current Job Trends…When determining which career field is right for you, think about which jobs are in demand now and whether or not those jobs will be in demand in the future.In-Demand Careers:Health and medical servicesComputer-related and technical fieldsEducationBusiness and financial fields