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There are several things that you should take into consideration when examining the results of any particular career assessment that you have taken. Remember that most career assessments either measure your career interest and/or your self-assessed job skills. You should consider several other variables in deciding a career path for yourself. Career assessments are just one of many factors that can help you decide which career path is best for you and your particular situation.
Please ask yourself the following questions
1. Do I have the time (as in years) and money it will take to enter a particular occupation?
Some certifications and degrees may take as little as six months to two years to complete while other degrees, license, or certifications may require four or more years of college.
2. Can I support my family and myself with the salary I will make from choosing this particular career path? Check www.tracer2.com for career salaries in specific locations in the state of Texas.
3. Is the projected growth rate in this particular occupation growing, declining, or staying steady. Check www.bls.gov to get this information. Remember that projected growth rates depend on many variables and can change year to year. Keep in mind that a projection is an estimate and can change due to many factors such as the economy, technology, and other circumstances.
4. Will I like the particular career path I am considering?
Unfortunately, many people do not research their potential career before they have already spent several years pursuing it. It is a good idea to talk to others who are working in the career that you are interested in pursuing. Ask them what they like and do not like about their career, and if they would choose it again if they had the choice
Web sites for career and occupational information:
www.bls.gov - This contains an online version of the Occupational Outlook Handbook.
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