It can be daunting leaving high school and facing the “real world”.
The big question
Knowing which career path to follow in the first place can be pretty confusing. Doctor? Artist? Personal trainer? Receptionist? Research Assistant? Sparkie? The possibilities are almost endless. It can be a big idea to wrap your head around.
It’s important to consider the options you have available and start thinking about what you need to do as the final weeks of your last school year creep up. Cessnockjobs.com.au give you some valuable lessons on what to do after high school, helping you fight the indecision of your future.
Tips for working out your next steps after school
1. Take some time
Reflect on what you want out of a job and what activities you enjoy doing. This could help you understand what type of job might suit you. There are lots of tools that can help.
2. Set goals
Work out your short, medium and long term goals to help you plan your post-school journey.
3. It’s okay to ask for help
Talk to your career adviser, parents, teachers or even someone from an industry that you are interested in. They can help you navigate the many different pathways which could lead to your chosen career.
4. Research
Do some research on different jobs and occupations that are in demand in the Cessnock area. Look up jobs that interest you. Find out what the future of jobs will look like.
5. Find a pathway
Consider alternative pathways to jobs you want. This could include doing an apprenticeship or traineeship, undertaking contract work, look at TAFE courses, or gig economy jobs, starting your own business or volunteering. Remember that not all jobs require further study or training as an entry requirement. Although some entry-level positions require you to have licences or tickets before you can start work.
6. Investigate the job prospects and skills required for your chosen occupation
What kind of training will you need and is it available in your area?
7. Understand and organise work experience
Help to identify how work experience can provide the skills and experience that you need. Download Understanding the Different Kinds of Work Experience (PDF, 442KB)
8. Register with a job agency
If you’re ready to get to work, register with a local job agency who can help guide you.
9. Get ready to look for work
It’s a big job to get your resume looking good and learning how to write a good job application, how to write a cover letter and get prepared for an interview.
10. Start applying
Start looking for jobs in your local area.
