How to Find the Right Career
Why Finding the Right Career Matters
If you’re searching online for how to find the right career, you’re not alone. Whether you're just starting out or thinking of making a change, finding a career that actually fits you is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make.
A career isn’t just a job. It’s what you spend most of your time doing. It shapes your routine, your goals, and your identity. That’s why it’s worth getting right.
In this guide, we’ll walk through how to find the right career step by step with clear actions you can take today.
Step 1: Understand What Matters to You
Start by asking yourself a few honest questions:
What topics or tasks do I enjoy?
What kind of work energises me?
Do I prefer working with people, data, or ideas?
What kind of environment do I want to work in (office, remote, outdoors)?
Your interests, values, and personality all play a part in career fit.
Write these answers down. Don’t overthink it. Just be honest.
Step 2: Identify Your Strengths
You don’t need to be good at everything. But knowing your strengths helps you focus on roles where you can grow and succeed.
Ask yourself:
What do people often come to me for?
When do I feel confident in what I’m doing?
What skills come naturally to me?
If you're unsure, take a free strengths test or ask someone close to you.
Step 3: Research Career Options
Once you know what you enjoy and what you’re good at, start researching.
Use websites like:
Prospects.ac.uk (great for UK-based job profiles)
National Careers Service
LinkedIn Jobs (for real-world openings and requirements)
Look into roles that match your interests. What do they involve day-to-day? What skills or qualifications do they need? What are the salary expectations?
Make a shortlist of 3-5 careers that interest you.
Step 4: Speak to People in That Field
This is one of the most overlooked but powerful steps. Reach out to people who already work in the careers you're curious about. Ask them:
What do you enjoy most about your job?
What challenges do you face?
Would you recommend this career to someone starting out?
Most professionals are happy to help if you're polite and genuine.
Step 5: Try Before You Commit
If possible, test a role before diving in:
Volunteer or shadow someone
Start a short course
Freelance or try a side project
Experience is the best teacher. You might love the idea of something, but dislike the reality. Or you might discover a new strength.
Step 6: Set a Simple Plan
Once you’ve found a role that feels like a good fit, make a plan.
Ask:
What qualifications do I need?
What experience will help me stand out?
What are 3 actions I can take this month to move closer?
Break it down. You don’t need to figure everything out at once. Just take the next step.
Final Thoughts: It’s Okay Not to Know Yet
Many people don’t find the right career straight away. And that’s fine. What matters is that you stay curious, stay open, and keep taking action.
If you're still unsure, working with a coach can help you:
Get clear on your options
Build confidence in your choices
Create a path that fits you
If you’re stuck and want to talk it through, feel free to message us. Happy to help.
At Thinkbridge, we support young professionals, students, and career changers in finding meaningful direction. Let’s figure this out together.