How to Research Your Career Options

Choosing a career path can be an overwhelming task, especially for students who’are about to complete or have just finished their GCSEs. With so many options available, it's important to research thoroughly to make the best decisions for your future.

Whether you're planning to continue your studies, start an apprenticeship, or enter the workforce, understanding your options is important, so you can make the right decision.

This blog post offers valuable tips for researching exciting careers:

Using online resources
Attending virtual events
Leveraging your network
Speaking to a careers advisor

We’ll discuss these top tips for researching career options effectively, helping you navigate this exciting but challenging time with confidence.

1. Careers websites

There are lots of websites online you can use to research job profiles. These profiles tell you all about the job – what skills and qualifications you need, how to find the jobs, and information on starting salaries and working conditions.

Prospects not only has around 500 job profiles, but they also have some useful tools - such as "What can I do with my Degree?" - and comprehensive information on apprenticeships and how to find them. Their career matching tools, including the Career Planner and Job Match, are designed to guide you toward the career paths best suited to your skills and interests.

Our students can also access Start, which is a free online careers tool offering career match tools and job profiles. Students can complete a series of learning modules, designed to equip them with the necessary skills to make informed career decisions.

The National Careers Service has over 800 job profiles, as well as skills assessment tools and an independent careers service for adults.

Here at The Manchester College, we have a range of guides on our blog to help you explore the right career options for you, including:

Check out our blog for more!

2. College and university open days

Attending college and university open days can be incredibly inspiring when exploring career options. These events offer a unique opportunity to gain insights into various fields and professions.

Open days provide a glimpse into different course and career pathways, helping you discover subjects and industries that spark your interest.

You can meet and speak with industry professionals and alumni who share their career journeys, challenges, and successes, offering valuable insights and inspiration. You’ll even have the chance to ask questions directly to lecturers, current students, and experts, helping you understand courses, career prospects, and the skills needed for success.

3. Social Media

Everyone’s online these days – employers, universities, colleges, and careers services.

There’s plenty of help out there if you have any questions, so don’t be afraid to get in touch. Developing your social media skills and building a network is a great way to work on developing employability and networking skills.

Try connecting with people you know; classmates and your college or school. From there you’ll start to see your network grow.

You can follow people and companies on YouTube and LinkedIn to get up-to-date news on what is going on in your preferred industry.

Even platforms like TikTok are getting in on the act. Don't underestimate the power of short, engaging videos! You'll find professionals from all walks of life sharing their career journeys and offering valuable tips.

From doctors to engineers, mechanics to marketers - there's a wealth of career insights waiting to be discovered.

4. Speak to people you know

When you're young and unsure of your career path, talking to people you know can provide a goldmine of insights. Familiar faces can offer firsthand perspectives on their fields, helping you discover new possibilities and identify the skills and challenges involved.

These conversations can be a springboard for further exploration, giving you a head start in navigating your exciting but uncertain career journey. To go a step further, seek advice from those in your network who work in your desired field, as they can provide specific guidance and potentially become mentors.

5. Speak to your Careers & Welfare team

Current and prospective students can contact us via email at careers&welfare@tmc.ac.uk to get expert advice from one of our many professionally qualified Careers Advisers.

They’re there to answer any questions you may have about our courses, funding options, career advice, and the options open to you. If there’s anything we can’t answer, we’ll put you in contact with the people who can!

Ready to take the first step towards your dream career? Explore the exciting range of courses offered at TMC and discover the perfect fit for your future.

Visit our website or contact our friendly admissions team today to get started on your inspiring journey!