It’s the time of year when learners in the Senior and FET Phases start to explore their interests and think about their career options. Research plays a significant part in this process and is a vital step for learners in order to make informed decisions about their futures. Encourage them to keep a career file containing ideas for careers, lists of their interests, pamphlets from different businesses, and hints or tips for CV writing, interviews and other job-seeking processes. This will provide them with an excellent starting point for choosing a field of study and a future career path. Share these nine pointers with your learners to help guide their decision-making process:

1. Interests
Research various fields of interest and narrow down your available options. Choose a field of study and a career that you are interested in.

2. Values and morals
What motivates you? What is important to you? Do you prefer to reach goals or earn rewards?

3. Personality
What type of career suits your personality?

4. Academic ability
Everyone has different academic abilities. Be realistic about what your academic abilities are.

5. Skills
What are your skills? Do you have the skills needed for a particular career path?

6. Finance
Some study options can be very expensive. Do you have the means to fund your study choice?

7. Tertiary institutions
Does the chosen tertiary institution suit you in terms of travel, accommodation etc.? Is it the right institution for you?

8. Job opportunities
Is there demand for people in the field you have chosen, once you have qualified? Will you easily get a job?

9. Possibilities
Does your chosen field of study and career offer possibilities for career development and advancement?

The nine pointers above should help to guide your learners in their decision-making process.
Encourage them to do the necessary research to ensure that they are making the most sensible decision. It is essential that they make the correct decision based on their own self-analysis.