Career Exploration Resources

Be open-minded! Don’t take anything off the table.

• Broaden the scope of what jobs you think are possible for you.
• What jobs have you always been curious about, or thought you might like?
• What jobs have you seen your friends do that you always thought were really interesting?
• What jobs have you dismissed because you thought, “I’m a woman, that’s not for me”? Think again!
• Read every job post and ask yourself:
• Would this job meet my priorities?
  • Does it interest me?
  • Would I want to try that kind of work? (You don’t have to do it forever!)
  • Am I capable of learning how to do that job? Don’t focus on if you could do the job right this moment – most jobs require at least some on-the-job training.
• Do your homework:
  • Do some research about jobs that interest you. 
  • Try taking some career assessments (listed below).
  • Conduct informational interviews with people whose jobs or companies you’re curious about.

“Am I qualified?” should NOT be the first thing you ask yourself

• Men apply to jobs when they’re only 60% qualified, women only apply when they’re 100% qualified.
• This is an excellent time to be looking for a job and to be changing careers if that is your desire.  The unemployment rate in Vermont is really low (<3%). Many employers are having a hard time finding reliable, hardworking people to fill open positions – not even people with experience, just people who are willing to work and have a good attitude!
• You may be the most qualified person that applies!  You may have some other skills or experience that they are excited about.

Consider a job in the trades, manufacturing, or STEM. 

• High wages
  • High demand areas – you’ll be able to find a job!
  • Many are unionized, i.e., good benefits
  • Low-cost and no-cost training options
  • Established career ladder, opportunities for growth and increased earnings, stackable credentials