Self-confidence and a desire to succeed are essential traits that will help you achieve your career goals. However, your career expectations should also be realistic to avoid disappointment or following the wrong career path. The following list contains ten warning signs that could indicate that your career ambitions may not be feasible in the real world.
1. You are not qualified for the position you want
Many careers require little more than time, effort and dedication to enable you to rise to the top of your field. Others require specialist qualifications such as a bachelor’s degree in order to get your foot in the door. Make sure you research the necessary qualifications needed for your chosen position.
2. Your chosen field does not offer the salary you desire
If a large salary is important to you, then you need to choose a career that offers plenty of financial rewards. Although you may like the idea of teaching kindergarten or work as a nurse, this type of career does not offer the six-figure salary that investment brokers command.
3. You have little to no experience in the industry
It is easy to look at those at the top of their field and imagine yourself in their place, but what you do not see is the hard work they put in to get there. If you want to pursue a career that you have no experience in, be prepared to start from the bottom and work your way up.
4. The job you want is extremely rare
Most people would love a full-time job as a video game tester or roadie for their favorite rock band, but these positions are extremely hard to come by. Instead, look for a position within your chosen industry that offers an acceptable salary and the opportunity to branch out into different areas.
5. The salary is not enough to live on
Striking a balance between doing what you love and earning enough money to live on is essential for long-term career satisfaction. You may love volunteering at your local animal rescue center, but turning that into a career may not be feasible.
6. You have taken on too much too soon
Being honest about your abilities even before you start a new job is important to ensure your long-term success. Never lie about your experience on your resume or during an interview as employers will soon discover that you are out of your depth.
7. You want to climb the ladder too quickly
If you are determined to make partner in your law firm, then be prepared for years of hard work, sleepless nights and lots of competition. Do not expect to rise to the top of your company overnight as this will make you seem arrogant to potential employers.
8. You are more interested in the perks of the job than the job itself
A company car, expense account, and personal assistant are wonderful benefits that come with certain careers, but they are only available to those who are prepared to earn them. Finding a job you love and will commit to is much wiser than seeking one that pays well and offers added incentives.
9. The field you wish to enter is highly competitive
Most of us harbor a secret desire to pursue a career as an actor, rock star or professional football player, but very few people actually manage to earn a living in these fields. If you are determined to pursue your dream, make sure you have something to fall back on if things do not go to plan.
10. There is not enough demand for your chosen job
A university degree used to be enough to guarantee you a job in your chosen industry. Since more people than ever are now entering higher education, a degree is no longer enough to help you stand out from the crowd. Certain industries, such as graphic design and marketing have become severely overcrowded, and well-paying jobs are increasingly scarce.
If you think you may be aiming a little too high with your career ambitions, sit down and re-evaluate your plans. Make a list of all the things you need to do in order to reach your goal to see whether or not it can be achieved.
If necessary, choose a position in the same field that is more attainable and suited to your experience and personal skill set.
