While there is no such thing as the “best” or “right” or even “one” career for anyone, sometimes it helps to have a starting point for discussions about career choice. Whether these “best” options are the result of brainstorming or assessments, counselors and clients can generate valuable discussions around these points. ~ Melanie Reinersman, editor@careerdevelopmentalliance.com
FOCUS ON: Best Jobs for Americans
According to Glassdoor, Data Scientist tops the list of the 50 Best Jobs in America. Three engineering jobs made the top 10, as did jobs in HR management and occupational therapy. The three factors that determined these results were number of job openings, salary, and overall job satisfaction rating. View all 50 best jobs for Americans at Glassdoor.
PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS: Careers for Economics Majors
Naturally, professional organizations are relevant sources of career information for students in that field. For example, the American Economic Association (AEA) offers a video exploring options such as law, medicine, government, international relations and more for economics majors. Read more on the AEA website.
FOR PRACTITIONERS: Assessments are Tools for Use in the Search Process
There are misconceptions about the use of assessments in counseling. One is that an assessment tells a person what to do. The second is that without training, it is okay to judge an assessment. Similarly, there are downsides to using assessments: their self-report nature affects the usefulness and taking which one or how many requires time and training. The good news is these tools provide opportunities for a counselor and client to reflect, plan and gain confidence in the search process and decisions. Read more about assessments as tools.
COLLEGE AND UNIVERSITY &
ENCORE CAREERS: Retirement Jobs in College Towns
Several universities have signed the AARP employer’s pledge which includes making age-blind hiring decisions. College town jobs are the best for retirees because of the likelihood of a recession-proof market, cultural and learning opportunities, and start-ups. Read AARP’s list of six jobs (both part- and full-time) in a college town.
TOP TEN: Best Jobs That Do Not Require a Four-Year College Degree
Paralegal and Legal Assistant are on the list of jobs that people may want to consider without going the traditional route through college. These jobs offer decent wages and earning potential, making them enticing to people of all skill levels and personality. Not surprisingly, some may require certification or a two-year degree, such as a Dental Hygienist or Health Information Technician. Read all 10 at The Balance.
QUOTES
“He knows nothing and thinks he knows everything. That points clearly to a political career.” - George Bernard Shaw
“The crowning fortune of a man is to be born to some pursuit which finds him employment and happiness, whether it be to make baskets, or broadswords, or canals, or statues, or songs.” - Ralph Waldo Emerson