10 Questions to Help Your Young Person Better Understand Themselves

Finding vocational alignment can be a journey of self-discovery. It's about understanding their unique skills, passions, and values, and how they align with the world of work. Here are ten questions designed to help your young person uncover their potential and guide them toward a career that excites and fulfills them.

1. What is one skill you feel you are uniquely good at? (What would a friend or teacher say about you?)

Think about the feedback you’ve received from others. Are you a natural leader, an empathetic listener, or a creative thinker? Recognizing these skills can help you find a career where you can thrive and make a significant impact.

2. What part of your personality could you definitely use to make money in the world?

Consider the aspects of your personality that stand out. Are you exceptionally organized, great at networking, or incredibly persuasive? These traits can be assets in various careers, from project management to sales.

3. What is one part of your personality you WISH could make you money in this world?

We all have passions and quirks that we wish could translate into a career. Maybe you love storytelling, making people laugh, or exploring obscure facts. Identifying these desires can help you find creative ways to incorporate them into your professional life.

4. What is something on social media, YouTube, or TV that consumes a lot of your attention? Can you name three jobs that support that industry?

Think about the content that captivates you. Whether it's gaming, fashion, or cooking, there are many behind-the-scenes roles that keep these industries running, such as content creation, marketing, and production.

5. What is a job that seems so cool, but out of reach? What industry is that job in?

We all have dream jobs that seem unattainable. Identify what fascinates you about that role and the industry it's in. Understanding these elements can help you find more accessible paths within that field.

6. If you could be automatically successful at anything, what would it be?

Imagine you could achieve instant success in any area. What would you choose? This fantasy can reveal deep-seated passions and aspirations that are worth exploring further.

7. Do you believe it’s important to validate your ideas before you get too far down a path?

Consider the importance of testing your ideas in the real world. Whether it’s through internships, informational interviews, or side projects, validating your interests and skills can save you time and help you make informed decisions about your career.

8. Do you have any fears when it comes to talking with people in the workforce? Anything holding you back?

Networking and seeking advice can be intimidating. Identifying and addressing these fears can help you build confidence and connect with professionals who can offer valuable insights and opportunities.

9. Can you name 10 different jobs that aren’t doctor, dentist, lawyer, teacher, or fireman?

Challenge yourself to think outside the box. Some examples might include software developer, graphic designer, marketing analyst, UX researcher, data scientist, event planner, physical therapist, social media manager, urban planner, and renewable energy technician. This exercise can broaden your understanding of the diverse career options available.

10. Based on these questions, what kind of jobs and industries do you want to learn more about?

Reflect on your answers and identify the careers and industries that align with your skills, interests, and values. Research these fields further, seek out informational interviews, and explore opportunities that can help you gain experience and insight.

Conclusion

Finding vocational alignment is a journey that involves self-discovery and exploration. It’s important to uncover one’s own skills and interests and see how they’d apply to the work world.  These ten questions can help your young person gain clarity on their strengths, passions, and aspirations, guiding them toward a fulfilling and exciting career. Remind them, the path to fulfilling work may not be straightforward, but with curiosity and persistence, they can find purpose, fulfillment and happiness in work and life.