What's a job seeker to do? You can spend hours doing research, along with some serious soul searching. But you may still come up blank.
There are people who can help. Some are pros; some you already know. But either way, they can assist you in answering the age-old question of what to do with your life.
Career Counselors
Career counselors can help you shape your career path, including find a job. They rely upon a host of resources, such as personality tests, expert knowledge and experience. If you're really confused, a good career counselor can help you explore many different career options.
There are career counselors for every stage of your career and every budget. School-based counselors offer career advice to students free of charge. Independent career counselors or consultants will often require you to pay an advance fee for a set number of sessions. Others won't limit the number of sessions and will work with you until you land a job.
The best way to find a skilled, dependable career counselor is by word of mouth. Ask people you trust for referrals. You can also screen a counselor through the Better Business Bureau.
Personal Coaches
Personal coaches can be very helpful to job seekers.
Coaches focus on helping people identify their values, dreams and goals. But, a word of warning: If you're looking for advice, career coaching might not be for you. A good coach won't tell you what he thinks you should be doing because he believes that, deep down, you already know. Simply put, coaches work to uncover existing knowledge -- and to eliminate self-doubt.
If you know someone who has visited a personal coach, ask for a referral. To help you find the right coach before making a commitment, most coaches will even offer a free, 30-minute phone session.
Mentors
People frequently find mentors in their workplaces to guide and nurture them in their present position and up the corporate ladder.
But, even if you don't have a job, you can still have a mentor.
Many colleges and alumni associations offer mentoring programs. You can also join a local business or professional association and inquire about a mentor program. Even if there isn't one, you may still find someone to mentor you informally.
Another idea is to find someone who works in a field that interests you. Set up an informational interview. If the two of you click, ask if you can e-mail or phone them from time to time with questions. If you're lucky, it may be the start of a mentoring relationship.
Friends and Family
Everyone you know probably has an opinion about what you should be doing in your career. Most times, we don't care to hear these opinions.
But, if you're stuck, it might not hurt to solicit opinions from friends and family members as to what career they think you should pursue. Likely, they know you well enough to know your strengths, weaknesses, likes and dislikes. They're probably also familiar enough with your past to know what you should avoid.
Ask direct and earnest questions, such as, "What do you think my strengths are?" and "Have you ever imagined me in a certain career?"
Your friends and family may dream bigger than you would ever dare.
