General Resources: Career Tips

Yes, you can have the career you want. Here are some tips and strategies to guide you on your way.

Set goals for your career development.
Where do you want to be in three years? Five years? 15 years? Write down your goals to help you visualize them. Then develop a strategy for how you will get there and the steps you will take both in the short-term and long-term to achieve your goals.

Research qualifications for the job you want.
What are the exact qualifications for your dream job? Find out and develop a plan for achieving those qualifications.

Observe successful people in the area in which you want to succeed.
Find a mentor. Watch successful people and analyze the skills and habits that help them achieve their goals.

Assess your skills and decide what you need to improve and how you will do it.
Do you need to learn to be a better public speaker? Record a speech on audio or videotape and analyze how you can improve. Do you need to be more outspoken and self-assured? Observe people who are self-assured and try to emulate them.

Write a great résumé.
Use active verbs. Be succinct. Use concrete details to describe the work you have done and the goals you have achieved.

Learn to interview.
Practice job interviews. Ask a friend to pretend to be an employer and interview you for the job you would like to have. Speak clearly, sit up straight, and maintain good eye contact.

Look the part.
Always dress appropriately, be on time, and be courteous to others. You never know who you might run into.

For more career information, see Careers in Criminal Justice.

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