10 Tips for Successful Career Planning: An Activity for Job-Seekers of All Ages

[Shahida]

Career planning is not an activity that should be done once -- in high school or college -- and then left behind as we move forward in our jobs and careers. Rather, career planning is an activity that is best done on a regular basis -- especially given the data that the average worker will change careers (not jobs) multiple times over his or her lifetime. And it's never| Remove Formatting Toggle View
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too soon or too late to start your career planning.
Career planning is not a hard activity, not something to be dreaded or put off, but rather an activity that should be liberating and fulfilling, providing goals to achieve in your current career or plans for beginning a transition to a new career. Career planning should be a rewarding and positive experience.

Here, then, are 10 tips to help you achieve successful career planning.

1. Make Career Planning an Annual Event
2. Map Your Path Since Last Career Planning
3. Reflect on Your Likes and Dislikes, Needs and Wants
4. Examine Your Pastimes and Hobbies
5. Make Note of Your Past Accomplishments
6. Look Beyond Your Current Job for Transferable Skills
7. Review Career and Job Trends
8. Set Career and Job Goals
9. Explore New Education/Training Opportunities
10. Research Further Career/Job Advancement Opportunities

Final Thoughts on Career Planning
   
      Don't wait too long between career planning sessions. Career planning can have multiple benefits, from goal-setting to career change, to a more successful life. Once you begin regularly reviewing and planning your career using the tips provided in this article, you'll find yourself better prepared for whatever lies ahead in your career -- and in your life.