Choosing a career path can feel overwhelming, especially when it feels like everyone else seems to have it all figured out. The truth? Most people don’t. And that’s completely okay.
Starting university or finishing your degree doesn’t always mean you know exactly where you want to go next. For many, it takes exploration, reflection, and real-world experience to figure it out. That’s why internships, mentors, and even simple self-assessments can be invaluable tools in shaping your professional direction.
If you’re trying to work out what’s next, here’s a practical guide to help you narrow your focus, align with your strengths, and discover what career path suits you best.
Start with Self-Discovery: Career Assessments
Career assessments can be a great way to understand your options. Think of them as guided reflections, such as a Buzzfeed career quiz, but with far more impact on your future.
When using these tools, it’s important to choose ones backed by research or developed by credible career services. Look for platforms that evaluate your strengths, interests, values, and work preferences. But remember: they’re not a crystal ball, they’re conversation starters. Use them to ask yourself deeper questions:
- What energises me in a work environment?
- Do I prefer collaboration or independent work?
- Is salary more important than flexibility or purpose?
- Would I enjoy a leadership role or something more behind-the-scenes?
As you explore your answers, begin researching roles or industries that align with your profile. Consider internships, volunteer roles, or short-term projects in different fields to gain exposure. Create a spreadsheet or mind map to help compare what you’ve learned with real job requirements. Structure your findings around responsibilities, values, and skill matches to identify patterns.
Look for the Overlap Between You and the Market
One of the most practical approaches to career planning is to view yourself as a brand. What are your key strengths? What problems can you help solve in a workplace? What makes you unique?
Now, flip that and ask: What do employers need right now? Where do your natural abilities or learned skills meet current job market demand?
This overlap is your sweet spot. Whether it’s problem-solving, creativity, communication, or data-driven decision-making, map your talents to real-world job descriptions. If you can identify where your strengths meet opportunity, you’re already one step ahead.
Follow Your Curiosity, Not Just Your Resume
Sometimes, the best way to find your path is to follow what excites you. What are you naturally drawn to? What would you do even if no one paid you?
Passion is a powerful compass. Maybe you enjoy design, storytelling, analytics, helping others, or solving complex problems. Whether you work with people or numbers, your interests can guide you toward fulfilling roles.
Don’t underestimate the value of your hobbies or side projects. They often reveal strengths you haven’t given professional credit to. And remember, just because you’re good at something doesn’t mean it’s what you have to do forever. Career satisfaction comes from purpose and alignment, not just proficiency.
Is the Career Sustainable? Think Long Term
Before you commit to a path, it’s worth considering the future of the field. Is the industry growing? Are the skills you're developing going to be relevant in five years? What roles are being automated or phased out?
For example, sectors like digital marketing, renewable energy, health technology, and data analytics continue to show strong growth. Others, like traditional manufacturing or some print-based media roles, are seeing decline. Tools like the Australian Government’s Labour Market Insights can help you check demand, salary trends, and industry growth forecasts.
Choosing a career with longevity doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice passion, but being informed helps your future-proof your skills and stay adaptable.
Tap into the Power of Networking
Talking to someone in the field is often more helpful than hours of online research. Reach out to professionals you admire, whether they’re alumni from your university, guest speakers, or even contacts on LinkedIn.
Ask about their career journeys: what surprised them, what they love, and what they wish they knew starting out. People are generally open to sharing their experiences, especially if you approach with genuine curiosity and respect. Offer to share a coffee, ask thoughtful questions, and be clear about what you’re hoping to learn.
Networking isn’t just about landing a job. It’s about gaining insight, mentorship, and support. It’s also one of the most effective ways to get your foot in the door. After all, around 85% of jobs are filled through networking.
Consult with a Mentor or Career Coach
When in doubt, seek guidance. A trusted mentor, coach, or career advisor can provide clarity and direction. Many universities offer free career counselling services, and there are also experienced professionals and platforms available if you're looking for more personalised support.
Mentors can help you assess your strengths, workshop your CV, practice interviews, or simply talk through your goals. More than anything, they offer perspective, especially when you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed. Don’t wait until you're job hunting to seek help; building these relationships early can shape your long-term trajectory.
Final Thoughts - Career Planning is a Journey, Not a Destination
Choosing a career isn’t a one-time decision. It’s an evolving journey that can take unexpected (and often exciting) turns. You’re not locked into one path, and it’s completely okay to change direction as you learn more about yourself and the world of work.
The key is to stay curious, proactive, and open to new opportunities. Use the resources available, such as internships, mentors, assessments, and your own reflections, to explore and refine your direction. A thoughtful approach now will help you build a meaningful, sustainable, and rewarding career.
At Premium Graduate Placements, we’re here to help you navigate that journey. Whether it’s internship programs, career coaching, or personalised guidance, we work alongside you to connect your potential to the professional world. Your future career isn’t a life sentence; it’s an opportunity waiting to be shaped.
Contact us today to see how we can help you find the right path for you.
