Supporting your teen in making career decisions can feel overwhelming, but with the right guidance, you can help them make confident choices for their future. Whether they have a specific career in mind or are still exploring their options, there are effective ways to assist them in navigating this important step.
Whether your child has a clear career goal or is unsure about their future, here are 7 key ways you can help them explore their options and make confident decisions about their career path.
Teenagers often have limited exposure to the full range of career opportunities available to them. Many only know about the professions they see in their daily lives, such as teachers, doctors, and engineers. However, the job market is vast, with countless opportunities that might be a perfect fit for your teen’s skills and interests.
To encourage career exploration, try the following:
According to a report by The Times, students who have early exposure to the workplace through internships or career discussions are more likely to pursue higher education and secure well-paying jobs.
Choosing a career is much easier when a teen understands their strengths, interests, and values. Instead of focusing solely on what jobs pay the most, help your child find a career that aligns with their passions and abilities.
Some ways to guide them include:
Below is a chart that will help you discuss possible career paths with your child based on the subjects they enjoy in school:
| School Subject | Related Career Paths |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | Accountant, Actuary, Data Analyst, Engineer, Financial Analyst, Statistician, Cryptographer, Math Teacher |
| Science (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Environmental Science) | Biologist, Chemist, Environmental Scientist, Pharmacist, Physician/Surgeon, Biomedical Engineer, Astronomer, Geologist, Forensic Scientist, Science Teacher |
| English / Literature | Journalist, Editor, Copywriter, Technical Writer, Lawyer, Public Relations Specialist, Content Marketing Manager, English Teacher |
| History / Social Studies | Historian, Archaeologist, Political Scientist, Lawyer, Museum Curator, Social Worker, Urban Planner, History Teacher |
| Foreign Languages | Translator, Interpreter, Diplomat, Language Teacher, International Business Specialist, Foreign Correspondent, Tour Guide |
| Business / Economics | Entrepreneur, Marketing Manager, Financial Advisor, Human Resources Specialist, Business Analyst, Economist |
| Computer Science / IT | Software Developer, Cybersecurity Analyst, IT Specialist, Web Developer, Game Designer, Data Scientist |
| Art / Design | Graphic Designer, Architect, Interior Designer, Fashion Designer, Illustrator, Photographer |
| Music | Music Producer, Composer, Sound Engineer, Professional Musician, Music Therapist |
| Physical Education / Health | Athletic Trainer, Physical Therapist, Personal Trainer, Coach, Nutritionist |
A study from Parents.com found that teens who have discussions with their parents about career options are more likely to set clear career goals and feel more confident in their decisions.
While it’s natural to want your child to follow a stable and successful career path, avoid pushing them toward a profession that doesn’t excite them. A balance between guidance and freedom is essential.
A report by The Sun revealed that 57% of parents feel out of touch with their children’s career aspirations because of the changing job landscape. Staying informed and open-minded can help bridge this gap.
Career exploration has never been easier, thanks to platforms like Orchard. Orchard helps teens discover careers they might not have considered by providing:
By using digital career discovery tools, teens can explore a wide range of professions, understand different industries, and make more informed decisions about their futures.
Once your teen has identified potential careers, research the necessary education or training paths together. Some careers require college degrees, while others may be accessible through trade schools, apprenticeships, or certification programs.
Your role as a parent is to provide encouragement and resources while allowing your teen to take the lead in their career decision-making. Ways to support them include:
By being an involved and supportive parent, you can help your teen gain the confidence needed to make well-informed career decisions.
Career exploration doesn’t have to wait until senior year of high school. The earlier your teen starts thinking about their future, the better. However, remind them that career paths are flexible, and it’s okay to change direction. Many professionals pivot careers multiple times, and gaining transferable skills is just as important as choosing the “perfect” career.
Helping your teen navigate their career path is an exciting journey that requires patience, support, and exploration. By leveraging tools like Orchard, your teen can gain valuable insights and confidence in their career decisions. Encourage them to sign up for Orchard’s free trial today and start discovering a future they’ll love!
By taking these steps, you can empower your teen to make informed choices and build a fulfilling career path that aligns with their interests and strengths.