If you’re looking for “text book job security,” when choosing careers you just have to take a close look at government jobs; particularly if you find yourself saying “the jobs in my area stink.” There are government jobs everywhere.
The Joshua Tree National Park is virtually in the middle of nowhere (actually it’s in the desert of Southern California about 25 miles from my house). There is a park store near the east gate. It is 20 miles from the nearest grocery store, gas station, or anything else that looks like civilization, yet there are a half a dozen government jobs based there. If you live in a rural or remote area, your career search may lead you to government jobs.
Unlike big companies, the potential for growth in government jobs is virtually nonexistent. There is only one career path and you can’t rush it. Promotions have nothing to do with your job performance; they come about based on test scores or classes you’ve taken.
If the reasons you’re saying “I need help deciding what career to choose” is because you don’t really like working long hours and want more free time, your career search should include government jobs. In most cases here is absolutely zero impact on your private life and there are tons of vacation and sick days available.
Financially, they are often the worst paying employer, but have great healthcare and retirement benefits. There are a few vocations like teaching or firefighting that actually have enough free time leftover to start a second career and make plenty of extra money on the side.
Of course if that little voice in your head keeps saying “I need help deciding what career to choose” because you want to be able to express your individuality, forget about government jobs. In fact you may want to look for job openings in a small company, which will be the focus of Part Three -- I Need Help Deciding What Career to Choose!
9 Critical Strategies for Building a Winning Career
Dave Horne
