Craig writes:
Hello, I am writing you in regard to finding a career that is right for me. I am 21 years old, and graduating from college in just a few months with honors, and I cannot locate a job that is right for me. I live in Lexington, KY, but want to relocate to another state. Right now my future seems hopeless; what should I do?
The Career Doctor responds:
Craig, you’re 21, and your future already looks hopeless? Shame on you! Your life is just beginning. What you need is a plan of action. What did you major in? What kinds of things interest you? Have you worked or had internships while in college? Your answers to these questions are all clues to a possible future career. You could also take some of the career assessment tests that are available on the Web — see Career Assessment Tools & Tests. But focus on the career goal first; then we’ll get to the job.
Once you have more of a career focus, that should help bring to light the kinds of jobs that might interest you and for which you have the skills and aptitude. You could search the Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Finally, you need to pick a location. Where do you want to live and work? If you are open to many places, then you should conduct a general job search. If you have a specific location in mind, such as Atlanta, then you need to conduct a more specialized job search that places all your energies and resources on Atlanta-specific job possibilities. Whichever it is, just remember to do a balanced and thorough job search — using traditional methods of job-hunting as well as Web-based resources.
