Choosing a career is one of the biggest decisions you will make, but it does not need to feel overwhelming. The right path comes from understanding yourself, your skills, and what makes work meaningful to you.

Whether you are finishing school, changing direction, or returning to the workforce, taking time to explore your options helps you make confident choices about your future.

At TURSA, we have supported thousands of people to find jobs and training that suit their goals. These ten practical tips will help you choose a career that fits your strengths, values, and lifestyle, giving you a clear direction for the road ahead.

Understand What Matters to You

Before you start looking at career options, take time to think about what is most important to you. A fulfilling career is one that aligns with your interests, values, and lifestyle.

Ask yourself:

  • What kind of work makes me feel motivated?
  • Do I prefer working with people, information, or hands-on tasks?
  • What values do I want reflected in my work?

Think about what brings you satisfaction in day-to-day life. Some people value stability and routine, while others enjoy variety or creativity. Understanding what drives you will help narrow your choices to careers that feel meaningful, not just practical.

If you are unsure, career quizzes or personality assessments can be a good starting point. They can highlight your strengths and preferences and point you toward areas worth exploring further.

Assess Your Strengths and Skills

Knowing what you are good at can make choosing a career much easier. Your skills and natural strengths often point to the types of jobs where you will perform well and feel confident.

Start by listing what you do best. These may include communication, teamwork, organisation, creativity, or problem-solving. Think about tasks you enjoy and activities where others often praise your efforts. These clues can reveal the environments where you will thrive.

Remember to consider transferable skills too. For example, if you have experience in customer service, those same people skills can be valuable in administration, community work, or sales.

If you find yourself asking, how do I choose the right career for me?, begin by matching your strongest skills with job types that use them daily. This helps you focus on paths that play to your strengths and keep you motivated over time.

Research Career Options

Once you understand your interests and strengths, start exploring careers that align with them. Research helps you see what each job involves, the skills required, and the opportunities available.

Begin with reliable Australian sources such as Job Outlook, MyFuture, or TAFE course guides. These platforms provide information about job demand, qualifications, and average pay. Reading about different industries can help you compare your options clearly.

You can also talk to people working in fields that interest you. Ask what their workday looks like, what they enjoy, and what challenges they face. Their experience can give you a realistic view of what to expect.

Attending local job expos or speaking with a TURSA career advisor can also help you understand the range of jobs and training opportunities in your area. The more informed you are, the easier it becomes to choose a career that suits both your interests and the job market.

Learn About Job Market Demand

Understanding which industries are growing can help you make a smart and lasting career choice. While passion is important, it is also worth considering where opportunities exist now and in the future.

Look for jobs with strong demand in your region. In Australia, sectors such as healthcare, education, construction, technology, and community services continue to expand. These areas often offer a range of entry points and steady long-term employment.

You can use online job boards or government resources to see which roles are currently advertised in your area. This helps you understand where your skills may be most valuable.

TURSA can also guide you through local labour market trends. Our team works directly with employers, so we know which roles are in demand and what training can help you get there. Knowing this information early allows you to plan a career with real potential for growth.

Consider Education and Training Needs

Most careers require some form of education or training, whether it is a certificate, apprenticeship, or university degree. Understanding what qualifications you need helps you plan the right pathway from the start.

Begin by checking the entry requirements for the careers you are interested in. Some roles may only need short courses or on-the-job training, while others might require specific licences or advanced study.

If you need extra skills or qualifications, consider enrolling in a training program through a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) such as TURSA Employment &  Training. We offer a range of programs that help you gain practical skills and prepare for employment across many industries.

Think about how your training will fit into your lifestyle and budget. Choosing the right course is not just about getting qualified, but also about making sure the learning experience suits your pace and goals.

Talk to People in the Industry

One of the best ways to understand a career is to hear directly from people already working in it. Their real-world experience can give you insight that job descriptions alone cannot provide.

Reach out to professionals through local networks, LinkedIn, or community programs. Ask about what a typical day looks like, what skills are most valuable, and what they wish they had known before starting. These honest conversations can help you see whether the role suits your personality and interests.

You can also attend information sessions, open days, or local events where employers and industry experts share advice. TURSA can connect you with local employers and additional training partners who can provide guidance and answer your questions.

Speaking with people who have first-hand experience helps you make more informed choices and gives you a clearer picture of what to expect before committing to a particular career path.

Test and Gain Experience

Trying different types of work is one of the best ways to discover what you enjoy. Real experience helps you confirm whether a career feels right before you commit to it long-term.

Look for opportunities such as volunteering, internships, casual work, or short-term placements. Each experience gives you a taste of the work environment, helps you build confidence, and develops valuable skills. Even part-time or temporary jobs can teach you teamwork, communication, and time management.

If you are unsure where to start, TURSA can help you find work experience opportunities that match your interests. We work with local employers who offer hands-on learning across a wide range of industries.

Gaining practical experience not only strengthens your resume but also helps you make informed choices about what kind of job and workplace best suits you.

Think Long-Term, But Stay Flexible

When choosing a career, it helps to think about where you want to be in five or ten years. Consider how a role might grow, what new opportunities it could lead to, and how it fits into your lifestyle goals.

At the same time, remember that careers rarely follow a straight path. Your interests and priorities may change over time, and that is completely normal. Being open to learning new skills or exploring different roles can help you stay adaptable in a changing job market.

Look for careers that offer room for growth or allow you to move into related areas later. Flexibility is one of the most valuable qualities you can build into your career plan.

Seek Professional Career Support

Choosing a career is easier when you have the right support. Speaking with a professional can help you see options you might not have considered and identify clear steps to move forward.

Career advisors and employment specialists can assess your skills, interests, and goals, then suggest suitable roles or training. They can also guide you through job applications, interview preparation, and resume writing to help you feel more confident during your job search.

TURSA offers free career guidance and employment support for people at every stage of their journey. Whether you need help deciding on a career path, finding local job opportunities, or gaining qualifications, our team is here to help.

You can visit one of our offices across Queensland and New South Wales or contact us online to start planning your next step. With the right advice and encouragement, you can move toward a career that feels rewarding and achievable.

Start Building Your Career with Confidence

Choosing a career is not something you need to figure out all at once. It takes time, reflection, and support to find the right direction. By understanding your strengths, exploring your options, and gaining experience, you can make confident decisions about your future.

TURSA is here to guide you every step of the way. Our team can help you discover your interests, develop your skills, and connect with employers who value what you have to offer.

If you are ready to start planning your next move, contact your nearest TURSA office or contact us online. Together, we can help you build a career that suits your goals and gives you a strong sense of purpose.