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How to Conduct Career Research | Electronic Resumes

How to Conduct Career Research
By Karen Casingal, Career Counselor

Why is career research important?

Researching a career is extremely important when deciding what you want to do in the future. The career path you decide to take will be a major part of your life. Without the proper research and knowledge, you may pursue a career without realistic expectations of that particular profession. Just as you grow and change, so do your interests and choices. Career research is an evolving process that continues as you learn about your own skills and interests. Career research will help you focus on what you want and what you are looking for in a specific line of work.

Here are some guidelines to help you decide which career is right for you:

• Take the time to read and become familiar with the area you are interested in
• Look into the educational requirements needed for that particular career and discuss coursework with an advisor and/or professor
• Explore salary, workplace conditions, hours of operation, benefits and job outlook for that particular industry
• Familiarize yourself with your field of interest, as well as the problems and issues employers/employees are encountering in the workplace
• Investigate the potential for growth within the field
• Review job descriptions and ask yourself why the position appeals to you

There are many resources available to students, recent graduates and alumni. One of the most important tools in career research is learning where to access information.

Below are just a few examples of the career resources available to you:

The Internet – Conducting an online search is one of the fastest ways to obtain career information. The World Wide Web is a great outlet as far as career planning and research. There are thousands of websites dedicated to career exploration.

Coursework – The classes you take during your time in college will give you some insight into what is required for that particular field. Discuss coursework and requirements with your academic advisor or professor.

Books, Professional Journals and Magazines – Visit your local or school library and study career related books, journals and magazines. Ask the librarian for help locating these materials. Visit the Office of Career Services and ask to review the reference materials in the Career Library.

Cooperative Education – Experience is vital when planning your career. Contact the Office of Career Services regarding Cooperative Education. COOP as it is commonly referred to, allows students the opportunity to gain experience in the workplace. This program gives students the chance to learn about various positions within a company. The positions may be paid or unpaid depending on the organization.

Summer Jobs – Take advantage of the months that you are off from school. Apply for a summer job in the field that interests you.

Career Fairs – Check with the Office of Career Services regarding any Career Fairs at your school or in your neighborhood. Career Fairs give you the opportunity to talk directly with companies to find out what they are looking for in employees.

Informational Interviews – Conducting an informational interview is the first step into building a network of contacts. The purpose of an informational interview is to gain first hand knowledge from an experienced professional in the workplace.

Job Shadowing – Get in touch with a professional in your field of interest. By observing a professional in the workplace, you will help increase your knowledge of the occupation.

Networking – Human Resources professionals view networking as the leading factor in career growth and exploration. Networking gives you the opportunity to talk with potential employers and get to know the in's and out's of the industry. Networking takes place in your everyday life. Your career network should include professors, alumni, professionals, employers, co-workers, neighbors, friends, and relatives.

Professional Associations - Members of professional associations have immediate access to the latest information and news in that particular field. Many associations offer discounted student memberships as well as volunteer opportunities for people interested in joining.

While conducting research keep in mind the following:

• Take your time - Research takes time and patience. Think about what you are researching. Look at your personality, skills, interests and values while conducting research. Does the career you are exploring match who you are? Will the career that you have chosen allow you to showcase your abilities? Think about the skills that you would like to develop and if this career will allow you to build upon and implement those skills. After you have completed the research, ask yourself whether or not you are still interested in that particular field. Is the career the right fit for you?

• Organize your materials –You may feel overwhelmed with the amount of information that you come across. However, arrange your notes, handouts, etc. so that you can refer back to the information easily.

• Be open minded - Remain open to new ideas and careers. You may find certain information useful to you in the future. Try not to limit yourself to just one career. Explore your options.

Career research is an ongoing and continuous process. However, though the process may be long and involved, the end result will prove to be beneficial to the future of your career. The more research that you conduct, the more evident a career path will become!