Helping Young Adults Find Career Direction

Helping Young Adults Find Career Direction

A generation of young adults aged 20-30 are having a difficult time finding their life’s direction. Many of these young people have a college degree (and perhaps an advanced degree) but are only finding part-time or un-engaging work, making it difficult for them to launch. Career Matters works with many of these people, who we call “emerging adults.”

Here are the facts…

  • The majority of millennials report being underemployed – 51.6 percent in 2016, according to the consulting firm Accenture.
  • Many graduate from college with degrees that do not have marketable skills.
  • Grads want interesting and meaningful work, often in an open and engaging culture, but they don’t know how to get it.
  • Many emerging adults live at home with mom and dad because they can’t find the work they want.

Some of these young adults lack urgency and motivation. Others are passionate, but don’t know how to direct their energies. Some have little work experience and do not know how to find a job.

As a career coach, I have found it helpful for emerging adults to take two assessments for self-exploration and clarity. The most helpful is The Highlands Ability Battery. This online assessment interpreted by a trained professional looks at natural abilities, learning styles and artistic abilities through timed work samples. The other test — the Strong Interest Inventory — reveals promising career options.