Career Decision Making

Know your options
There are probably far more options open to you than you think!  For example around 60% of all graduate vacancies don’t ask for a specific degree subject.  And people with PhDs and postdoc experience end up in a huge range of professional jobs, some fairly close to their area of research but others are employed in different roles that demand the many in-depth transferable skills developed whilst undertaking academic research. Make sure you use this web site and other Careers Service resources to get informed.

Know yourself
What skills and qualities do you have to offer?  What do you enjoy using?  What factors interest you and motivate you?  What about your personality?  It’s important to regularly think about these issues, so that you can be clear about how you’re developing and what you have to offer.

Explore your personality type with MBTI:

MBTI (Myers-Briggs Type Indicator) workshops are run by the Careers Service throughout the year for Research staff. It offers an in depth exploration of your personality that will enhance your understanding of yourself, your motivations, your natural strengths and your potential areas for growth and therefore offers an invaluable support in your career planning and development.

It is also a useful tool in managing stress effectively and will also help you appreciate differences in individuals to better understand the people around you – in your workplace and in your personal life.

Make decisions
Now all you have to do is match what’s available to you with what you have to offer.  If this seems tough, then that’s because it is!  Don’t despair though – The Windmills Programme online will take you through the process of self exploration and career planning to help you work out where you are right now and plan your next steps. Prospects Planner can be really useful in matching what you have to offer to hundreds of potential jobs, to help you produce a manageable list of potential options.

More help
Computer programmes such as Prospects Planner are a great starting point, but it’s a good idea to talk over these issues with a qualified human being!  You can make an appointment to speak to a Careers Adviser, who will support you in your decision making.

Take action
Once you’ve decided on your goals, you need to maximise your chances of success.  We can help you with all aspects of job seeking – from producing a powerful CV, to impressing at interview.