So your teen has made the big decision about what they want to do after school. Now they need to put a plan in action to make it happen.
How they set goals and plan for their future will depend on whether they’ve decided to get a job straight out of school, get into a trade or do tertiary study.
There are lots of things to consider, Careers New Zealand have the tips, advice and tools to help your teen build their career.
Setting career goals
Before they start researching work or study options, it’s a really good idea to encourage your teen to set some goals and write them down. This will help them create small, achievable tasks and stay focused.
- Write them down – be specific and keep it simple!
- Research – find out what you need to do to achieve your goals.
- Identify the obstacles – for example, do you need to gain new skills to get a certain job?
- Ask for support from friends, whānau or teachers – they can help to keep you motivated and on track.
An example of goal setting
Goal: I want to become a horse trainer
Steps I’ll take to achieve this goal:
- I’ll do a National Certificate in Equine at the local polytech, which I will apply for in November.
- I’ll try to find a part-time job next month as a stablehand, so I’m getting experience in the industry.
Always strive for long-term goals and make little goals first. For instance, if you want to be a world-class restaurant manager, start at the bottom and be a kitchen hand. Then take a night course on being a waiter while you are working as a kitchen hand. That way you can slowly work up the ladder.
Jay Dunlop, mature student and part-time call centre worker.
Pick your career planning tool kit
Tool kit to plan a job straight after school
Careers New Zealand has got everything your teen needs to know about finding, applying for and getting a job.
- YouTube website – check out our video series for advice on finding a job, CVs and interview tips
- Use our job hunting tips and advice, including how to create CVs and cover letters
- Find links to job vacancy and recruitment websites
- Find out how to interpret a job ad and what your teen needs to do to nail an application
- Learn about the employability skills your teen’s next boss is looking for
Tool kit to plan for tertiary study
- Search our course database for information and study options
- What are the study and training options?
- Top tips to get ready for university
- How to get a scholarship – it’s easier than you think
- StudyLink website – find out about student loans and allowances
- YouTube website – check out our video series and be inspired by other students
Tool kit to plan for apprenticeship / workplace training
- Learn about gaining qualifications and skills while working
- Find out what’s involved in New Zealand apprenticeships
- Got a Trade website – be inspired and learn more about getting into a trade
Useful links
- Check out Careers New Zealand job hunting tips and advice
- A step-by-step look at how your teen can put a plan in place to reach their goals
Get in touch
Careers New Zealand are here to help. If you would like some more advice on how to transition from school to work or study, contact one of their experienced career advisers. Phone them free, even from a mobile, or chat online for expert advice.
- Call 0800 222 733
- Chat online
- Join the conversation and follow Careers New Zealand on Facebook
- Get more information and advice about careers for your teens by subscribing to the Careers New Zealand e-newsletter. Email SUBSCRIBE to careers-insight@careers.govt.nz
For more practical advice to help your kids with their decision making, check out Careers New Zealand Where to Next?
