Picking the right career program for your goals is a big decision, but if you’re thinking about joining a career program to help you get started in a new job, you’re already on the right track! Career education programs can give you the skills you need for work and help you feel more confident about your future.
At Training Direct, we know how important it is to choose the right training program. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a fresh start, we’re here to help guide you through the process. In this blog, we’ll walk you through what a career training program is, why it’s important, and how you can choose the one that’s best for you.
Why career training is essential for growth
Not every job is one you can walk into and know immediately what to do! That’s why career training programs exist. They help you learn the skills needed for a specific job. These programs are focused, hands-on, and usually faster than a traditional college degree. Whether you want to work in healthcare, the trades, or an office setting, there’s a career education program that can help you get there.
Here’s why career training is so important:
- It saves time: Many programs take just a few months, not years.
- It’s job-focused: You can learn what you need for the career you want.
- It builds confidence: You can feel prepared and ready to enter the workforce.
- It can open doors: Training can lead to better job options and higher pay. A career training program can also introduce you to people and connections to help you find that perfect role for your career goals.
Steps to identify your career goals
Before you can pick the right training program, it helps to know what kind of job you want. Let’s break it down into easy steps and then dive a little more into what each step involves.
- Make a list of industries you’d like to work in
- Research career options
- Set realistic goals
- Build relevant skills or find a training program
1. Make a list of industries you would like to work in
Think about what you enjoy doing and where you see yourself working. Do you like helping people? Maybe healthcare is right for you. Do you enjoy hands-on work? You might enjoy a skilled trade. Some common industries include:
- Healthcare
- Business
- Skilled trades
- Technology
- Customer service
Make a list of the areas that interest you the most. Don’t worry if it’s a long list, because you can narrow it down later.
It might also be useful to make a list of things that don’t interest you. For example, if you enjoy hands-on work and don’t want to sit behind a desk, a career in an office might not be what you want. Think honestly about what you like and what you don’t like, and you can narrow down your options.
2. Research career options
Now that you’ve listed a few industries, it’s time to look at specific jobs. For example, if you’re interested in healthcare, you might research becoming a:
- Medical Assistant
- Nurse Aide
- Phlebotomy Technician
- Patient Care Technician
Learn about what these jobs involve. Ask yourself:
- What does a typical day look like?
- What skills are needed?
- How long does training take?
- How much can I earn?
The more you know, the easier it is to pick the right path. If you’re not sure of the answers to these questions, it may help to set up an appointment with a career program advisor, or to ask people you know who work in the industries you’re interested in.
3. Set realistic goals
After researching, it’s time to set a goal. Choose something that feels right for your lifestyle. For example:
- If you need to work during the day, look for programs with evening or weekend classes.
- If you want to get started quickly, look for short programs that take just a few months.
- If you’re planning for a long-term career, think about programs that offer room for growth or future certifications.
Setting a clear goal will help you stay focused and motivated.
4. Build relevant skills or find a training program
Now that you know what job you want and what it takes to get there, it’s time to start building your skills. That’s where a career training program comes in.
Career programs teach you the exact skills you’ll use on the job. They can also help you get ready for certification exams (if required). Plus, you can learn from instructors who’ve worked in the field. Research different career programs in your area and start to make a list of what they offer, what they teach, and how they might help you with your goals.
Matching training programs to your career goals
Once you have a clear goal, it’s time to find the right program. Here at Training Direct, we offer career education programs designed to help students like you enter the workforce with confidence.
Our healthcare career programs are designed to be hands-on, fast, and focused on real-world skills. You can train for a variety of careers, such as:
- Medical Billing and Coding Specialist: Learn the medical terminology, coding skills, and claims processing skills needed to work in this exciting healthcare field.
- Phlebotomy Technician: Train to draw blood and work in labs, hospitals, or at community blood drives.
- Nurse Aide (CNA): Help care for patients in nursing homes, hospitals, and other healthcare settings.
- Patient Care Technician: Support nurses and doctors in caring for patients.
- Electrocardiogram (EKG) Technician: Learn to use special machines to check heart health.
Each program includes training from experienced instructors, hands-on practice, and help with job search upon graduating. Our team is here to support you from your first day to your first job.
How to assess career training programs
Not all training programs are created equal. Before you enroll, it’s important to do some homework. Here are some tips for checking if a program is right for you:
1. Check for Approval and/or Licensing: Make sure the school is licensed by the state and that the program is recognized by employers. This ensures your education will be valuable when it comes time to look for a job.
2. Look at Program Length and Schedule: Can you attend during the day? Do you need evening or weekend options? Be sure to find a program that fits your life and schedule.
3. Ask About Career Support: Does the school offer resources to help you look for a job after graduation? These resources might include resume help, job placement assistance, interview coaching, and more.
4. Tour the Campus: If possible, visit the school. Meet the instructors, look at the classrooms, and get a feel for the environment. It’s important to feel comfortable where you’re learning!
5. Read Reviews: See what other students and graduates have to say about the program. Reviews can give you insight into the school’s strengths and give you an idea of what to expect.
6. Understand the Costs: Be sure to ask about tuition, fees, and payment plans. Many schools, like Training Direct, can work with students directly to discuss how they can fund their education.
Choosing a career program is a big step, but it’s one that can lead to a brighter future. By understanding your goals, researching your options, and picking the right training program, you’re setting yourself up for success.
At Training Direct, we’re proud to help students build the skills they need to start working and growing in their careers. If you’re ready to take the next step, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more about our career education programs and how we can help you get started on your journey!
