Ten Career Myths We're Tired of Hearing
# Job Tips

Ten Career Myths We're Tired of Hearing

post by Lyanne

by Lyanne

Oct 21, 2020
at 8:49 AM

Think you know everything about choosing a career? Think again. So many people think they know the right way to go about choosing a job, but they often end up picking an unsatisfying career. These are the ten myths of determining a career along with resources that can help you make the right decision.

 

1. Deciding a career is simple

Choosing a career is an involved process, and you should give it the time it deserves. Career planning is a multi-step process that involves learning enough about yourself and the occupations which you are considering to make an informed decision.

 

2. A career counsellor can advise you what job to choose

A career counsellor, or any other career development professional, can't tell you what career is best for you. They can provide you with guidance in choosing a job and can help facilitate your decision.

woman looking at books
You don't need to rely on just experience, sometimes books can help.

3. Career =/= Hobby

Says who? When choosing a career, it makes perfect sense to choose one that is related to what you enjoy doing in your spare time, if you fancy. Also, people tend to become very skilled in their hobbies, even though most of the skill is gained informally.

 

4. The "Best Careers" list is where you should choose my career

Every year, especially during the beginning of a new decade, numerous articles and books list what "the experts" predict will be "hot jobs." You can look at those lists to see if any of the careers on its appeal to you, but you shouldn't use the checklist to dictate your choice.

While the predictions are often based on real data, sometimes things change. Way too often what is hot this year won't be hot a few years from now. Also, you need to take into account your interests, values, and skills when choosing a career. Just because the outlook for an occupation is good, it doesn't mean that occupation is right for you.

 

5. High salary will make me happy

While salary is significant, it isn't the only factor you should look at when choosing a career. Countless surveys have shown that money doesn't necessarily lead to job satisfaction. For many people enjoying what they do at work is much more critical. However, you should consider earnings, among other things, when evaluating an occupation.

 

6. Once I choose a career I'll be stuck in that field forever

That's wrong. If you are unsatisfied in your job for any reason, you can always change it. You'll be in good company. Many people change jobs several times throughout their lifetimes.

Man thumbs up
You don't need to follow your friends when choosing your career. It's your life, your decision.

7. If I change careers I will only waste my current skills

Your skills are yours to keep. You can take your skills from one job to another. They're known as transferable skills. You may not use them in the same way, but they won't go to waste.

 

8. If someone I know is happy in a specific field, I will be too

Everyone is different, and what works for a friend won't necessarily work for you. If someone you know has a career that interests you, look into it, but be aware of the fact that it may not necessarily be a good fit for you.

 

9. All I have to do is pick an occupation, and I will not need to worry anymore

Picking a career is a great start, but there's a lot more to do after that. A Career Action Plan is a road map that takes you from choosing a career to becoming employed in that occupation to reaching your long-term career goals.

 

10. Experience is the only thing that matter

While the first-hand experience is excellent, there are other ways to explore a career. You can read about it either in print resources or online. You can also interview those working in that field.