We work with people of all ages and at all stages who seek careers guidance to start a career, progress a career or change a career. Here’s a snapshot of some of the advice our careers advisers have to offer.
Go to uni
For many school leavers, university is still the best option. For some, a vocational degree can provide the perfect stepping stone to your career of choice, such as accountancy, architecture, physiotherapy. For many others, simply select a degree course that interests and inspires – because we will achieve more if we love it!
Don’t go to uni
University is not for everyone, and sometimes we advise people that their interests are best served by not following the crowd but by taking a pathway that is tailored to their own needs and situation.
Consider an apprenticeship
Modern apprenticeships can sometimes fit the bill perfectly! A mix of real work that brings in a wage coupled with robust and accredited training can provide a great springboard to a new career pathway.
Get some work experience
Many organisations can be persuaded to offer a short period of unpaid work experience, which can help illuminate the opportunities and pitfalls of different careers. But beware: a great week may over-egg a given career pathway, and equally, do not necessarily be put off a career following disappointing work experience.
Work experience can be similar to:
Internships
Meaningful, practical work related to a student’s field of study or career interest. An internship gives a student the opportunity for career exploration and development, and to learn new skills. They can be paid or unpaid, typically longer than work experience, are great for networking, and definitely provide great material for your developing CV.
(PS for people who are returning to work after taking time out, you might want to think about a Returnship as you consider your return to the workplace.)
Volunteer
Volunteering boosts confidence and self-esteem, provides a sense of structure and purpose, and critically builds vital skills in a new career pathway. Especially (but of course not only) for people who have taken a career break, it can be an excellent way of kick starting your working life again.
Consider an entry level job
Whilst many jobs require a full menu of skills, experience and qualifications, some actually specify that the role is ideally suited to a person starting out. Although you may not consider such a role attractive, there can be huge benefits in building your skills and experience in a starter role and populating your CV.
Stay where you are!
And then for a lucky few, our advice is simply to stay put! The grass may look greener to consider alternative pathways, but weighing up the pros and cons, you are doing just fine where you are!