What are effective tools and resources for researching career options?

1 Self-assessment tools

Self-assessment tools, such as the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) and the Holland Code (RIASEC), can provide insight into what kind of work environment, tasks, and roles suit you best. The MBTI measures your psychological preferences and how you perceive and interact with the world, while the RIASEC categorizes your interests into six types. The Skills Profiler helps you create a list of your skills and match them to different occupations. By using these self-assessment tools, you can gain a better understanding of yourself and find the right fit for your career.

2 Career exploration websites

Career exploration websites are invaluable online platforms that provide a wealth of information and guidance on various careers and industries. They can provide details on education, training, skills, duties, salary, outlook, and trends of different occupations. Furthermore, these websites can assist in finding and comparing job openings, creating resumes and cover letters, and preparing for interviews. Examples of career exploration websites include The Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH), O*NET Online, and CareerOneStop. OOH is a comprehensive source of data and analysis on hundreds of occupations in the U.S., while O*NET Online is a database of detailed descriptions of occupations and their characteristics. CareerOneStop is a one-stop shop for career exploration, training, and job search resources.

3 Networking and mentoring

Networking and mentoring are personal and professional relationships that can help you gain insights, advice, feedback, and referrals for your career development. Networking involves connecting with people who share your interests, goals, or backgrounds, while mentoring involves finding a person who has more experience or expertise in your field. Examples of networking and mentoring include joining professional associations, clubs, or online communities related to your career or industry; attending events, workshops, webinars, or conferences; reaching out to alumni, colleagues, friends, or family; asking for informational interviews, shadowing opportunities, or referrals from your contacts; and finding a mentor through a formal program, an online platform, or a personal connection.

4 Online courses and certifications

Online courses and certifications are educational and professional programs that can help you acquire new knowledge and skills, or validate your existing ones. These programs can assist in enhancing your resume, demonstrating your competence, or meeting the requirements of your current or prospective employer. Moreover, they are a great way to explore new topics, fields, or careers, as well as stay up-to-date on the latest trends and developments. Examples of online courses and certifications include massive open online courses (MOOCs), which are free or low-cost courses offered by universities, organizations, or experts on various subjects and disciplines. Additionally, there are online degree or certificate programs which lead to a formal qualification or credential. Lastly, there are industry-specific or skill-based certifications that assess or verify your proficiency in a certain area or domain.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?