School career offices, government agencies, and career counselors are all excellent sources of career information. Individuals interested in learning more about specific jobs and careers may also find information in libraries and on various websites. In many cases, investigating several different sources of career information is a good idea in order to get a complete and accurate picture of what it’s like to work in a specific field. It’s also important for researchers to keep in mind that career opportunities vary greatly depending on where they work. As a result, a review of information provided experts working and writing within a particular community should be included in a search for quality information about occupations.
Career centers in high schools, vocational schools, and universities provide students and alumni with a wealth of free career information. Access to proprietary career and job databases, access to occupational manuals and books, and assessment services are all examples of these services. Students and alumni may be able to take skills assessment tests to help them identify their strengths and choose a suitable career path through assessment services. Students may be able to get free or low-cost job counseling at career centers. Professionals from various fields may pay visits to a career center to talk to students and alumni about their jobs.
There are several agencies that deal with labor-related issues in many countries. For example, in the United States, the Department of Labor keeps track of a variety of trades and professions and publishes the Occupational Outlook Handbook, which is available both online and in libraries, with useful information such as job prospects, expected salaries, and information about the nature of specific jobs. Governments may also fund community-based job centers that offer comprehensive career information and assessment. These centers may be incorporated into unemployment offices in the United States, though career services may be available to anyone in the community, not just those who are currently receiving unemployment benefits.
Job fairs can also be great places to learn about different careers. These fairs are often open to the public and provide job seekers with the opportunity to speak with representatives from a variety of companies about career opportunities. This can be a great way to learn about different industries and the opportunities within them for someone who is undecided about a career path. Job fair information is frequently available from school career offices and local government employment agencies.