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Career Planning
8 min read · Students and graduates
Career Planning Starter Guide
A practical framework to move from confusion to a shortlist and a 90-day action plan.
1
Start with evidence, not pressure
A useful career plan sits at the intersection of what you enjoy, what you can build skill in, what the market needs, and the life you want to lead.
Do not begin by choosing one job title forever. Begin by identifying two or three career clusters worth testing.
- check_circle List activities that consistently hold your attention.
- check_circle Collect feedback about strengths other people observe in you.
- check_circle Note constraints such as location, cost, study time, and family responsibilities.
2
Build a shortlist
Shortlist three options: a strong-fit direction, an adjacent option, and an exploratory option. Compare each using the same criteria.
- check_circle Daily work: what would you actually do?
- check_circle Entry route: degree, certification, portfolio, exam, or apprenticeship?
- check_circle Opportunity: demand in your target location and industry?
- check_circle Fit: does the environment match your preferred way of working?
3
Run small experiments
Before making an expensive commitment, test assumptions through a short course, project, informational interview, volunteering, or job shadowing.
- check_circle Choose one experiment you can complete within 30 days.
- check_circle Record what energized you, what was difficult, and what you want to investigate next.
- check_circle Update your plan using evidence from the experiment.