Choosing a career can feel overwhelming for children, particularly when they are expected to make decisions about subjects, studies and future work while they are still discovering their interests.
Parents can play an important role by offering guidance without taking over the decision-making process.
Also see: Basetsana Kumalo’s five business lessons for building a career that lasts
1. Encourage curiosity
Expose your child to different careers, industries and ways of working. Talk about what people do in their jobs, visit workplaces where possible and encourage questions.
The aim is to broaden their understanding of what is possible rather than steer them towards one particular career.
2. Help them identify their strengths
Amitabh Psychology recommends encouraging self-discovery. Discuss the activities your child enjoys and the skills they naturally demonstrate. Are they creative, analytical, practical, organised or good with people?
School subjects, hobbies, sport and community activities can all provide clues about their interests and strengths.
3. Teach research skills
Encourage your child to investigate careers independently. As reported by The Guardian, it is important to be careful that you don’t unintentionally pressure your child to realise your own unfulfilled ambitions.
They can research study requirements, typical responsibilities, workplace environments and potential career pathways. In South Africa, resources such as the Department of Higher Education and Training’s career guidance services can provide useful information.
Also see: Key qualities that can help you grow your career
4. Build practical skills
Career preparation goes beyond academic results. According to Lumify Learn, skills are the tools that open the doors to career success.
Help children develop communication, teamwork, problem-solving, time management and digital skills.
Encourage age-appropriate responsibilities at home, participation in extracurricular activities and opportunities to volunteer or gain work experience.
5. Keep the conversation open
Career plans can change, and that is perfectly normal. Check in regularly rather than treating career choice as a once-off discussion.
Listen to your child’s concerns and ambitions, and help them weigh options realistically while allowing them to take ownership of their future.
Ultimately, effective career guidance is about helping children understand themselves, explore their options and develop the confidence to make informed decisions.
Also see: The art of the pivot: Navigating career change in your 20s
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