Read each item and decide whether it is true or false.
1. _____ Career testing will tell me what career is right for me. 2. _____ There is a perfect career for me. 3. _____ I’ll pursue whatever career is in demand. 4. _____ If I make the wrong decision, I’ll be stuck forever. 5. _____ I know everything I need to know about the career of my choice. 6. _____ I'm too young to be concerned about making career choices.
Now scroll down to find out the correct answers. Or listen to me read them by clicking here: Play media comment.
Career Myths
Generally, all of the above items are false, and can be seen as career myths. Before you consider exploring careers, it is important to identify these myths that could block informed decision-making.
MYTH: Career testing will tell me what career is right for me. FACT: No test will tell you which career is right for you or what career you should follow. Career assessment results can be useful in gathering information about you and relating it to career types. Test results often help you to put information in order so you can verify or challenge your ideas. These assessments are tools; the decision is yours.
MYTH: There is a perfect career for me. FACT: No single career is the perfect one for you. There are many careers that have the potential to meet your career goals, and several ways to find a meaningful career path. Career choice often requires the willingness to balance disadvantages with advantages and to make choices between several alternatives.
MYTH: I’ll pursue whatever career is in demand. FACT: Knowing what is hot in the job market is important information, but not the only information you need to make a decision. Without knowing about your own interests and skills, you may choose a career that is available, but may learn that it isn’t the right fit for you.
MYTH: If I make the wrong decision, I’ll be stuck forever. FACT: Fear of making a wrong decision can prevent you from making any decision. Career choices are never permanent. Few people head into one career and stay there for their whole working lives. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the average age worker will change careers five times during a work life.
MYTH: I know everything I need to know about the career of my choice. FACT: Your knowledge may be incomplete. Understanding careers requires exploration, experience, and knowledge. The world of work is continually changing, and acquiring a variety of skills that apply to a variety of settings, will prepare you for a dynamic job market.
MYTH: I am to young to be concerned about making career choices. FACT: It is never too early to think about your future and your career. Attending college is a career decision and your major choice is a career decision.
W.O.I.S. Portfolio Introduce Yourself: Career Question