What Do They Want to be When They Grow Up?

If you have children, chances are you’ve thought a lot about where life may take them professionally. They might also be starting to have those questions—whether they’re 6, 11, or 18, chances are they’ve thought: “what do I want to be when I grow up?” What can you do to guide their exploration and point them in the right direction? 

Let them know it’s okay to change your mind. 

They may have a clear-cut vision of what career they want at a young age, or they might change their minds several times over the years (or each week). Either way, let them know it’s okay! The average person changes careers (not “jobs,” but actual careers) at least seven times in a lifetime. The key is to adopt some practical methods for making every experience (even those that don’t seem related to work) one in which they learn, grow, and accomplish. Help them see learning opportunities in “regular,” day-to-day activities and the skills they use to accomplish their goals. 

Encourage them to pursue opportunities and make the most of them.

Ask them about the things they like to do and provide support for them to engage in those activities. Maybe they want to get involved in the school chorus, an athletic team, or science club. Maybe they love to code, create pottery, or develop practical inventions. Whatever the activity, ask questions that help them reflect on the strengths they use and build upon in each. 

Record accomplishments.

Suggest that they keep a notebook or file of the things they do well. If he or she is known as the member who gets the team ready for practice, jot it down. If they help friends put together outfits appropriate for wherever they’re going, take note. Invite them to reflect on skills they’re using:  observation, coordination, an eye for color, knowing what works. If they organize the annual book sale at school, they might be using skills such as these:  time management, organization, negotiation, logistics. Help them see the merit in what they are doing and identify accomplishments. 

Brainstorm with them to build a list of skills they are learning at part-time or summer jobs. 

If your teen has a part-time job, advise him or her to see the role as more than “just” a cashier or restaurant server. Remind them of the responsibilities they have and how they actively engage in executing them appropriately, every time they’re at work. Cashiers are entrusted with cash and credit payments, representing the company/store to customers in a positive manner, and given the responsibility to end shifts with accurate register balances. Waitstaff may be required to memorize a lengthy list of specials (complete with their most intriguing ingredients), taking accurate orders, providing exceptional customer service and a positive dining experience, and managing the nuances of the kitchen and dining room. The skills used in these instances can certainly make a positive difference in their future careers. 

Motivate them to see that even at a young age, accomplishments and strengths matter, and now is the time to gain practical experience and a mastery of applying it in the “real” world of work in the future. 

--Victoria Crispo, Dec 2014 Career Coach