Factors that Influence Career Choice


Lesson 2: Factors that Influence Career Choice

  1. Purpose
    As Christians, we believe everyone was created for a specific purpose. Therefore, career choice should answer the following fundamental questions:
    a) Who am I? = Identity, Self-Awareness, Personality.
    b) Why am I here? = Purpose
    c) What can I do? = Potential, passion, talents, career, skills, interests, ambitions.
    d) Where am I going = Destiny,
  2. Passion
    People are more likely to pursue careers aligned with their hobbies, interests, or things they are passionate about. Passion can lead to higher satisfaction and long-term success.

3, Personality
People who choose to work in an environment similar to their personality type are more likely to be more successful and satisfied. E.g., extroverts may prefer public relations, while introverts may excel in research roles. People who are social or like helping others may end up in fields like healthcare, teaching or social work.

  1. Skills, Abilities, Talents and Aptitudes
    Our God-given abilities and talents maybe an indication of our careers, and if discovered early may lead to great success. People tend to gravitate towards careers that align with their inherent strengths, e.g. someone good in maths may lean towards finance or engineering, or a person with a natural flair for creativity might pursue art, design, or marketing
  2. Social-economic factors
    The economic situation in Kenya, including job market demand, unemployment rates, and the potential for earning a good income, can play a major role. People often choose careers they believe will offer financial stability and job security.
  3. Cultural & Ethical Factors
    As Christians we should seek careers that align with our moral and ethical values, avoiding professions that may lead to compromising our faith. Also societal norms can shape career choices, eg certain jobs might be seen as more suitable for specific genders or age groups.
  4. Education System
    The subjects and courses available in schools, as well as career guidance provided, can shape the career paths students pursue. Often, students are influenced by the courses they excel in or are exposed to during their education.
  5. Parental and Family Influence
    Many young people are guided by their parents’ expectations or family traditions. In some cases, parents may encourage their children to pursue careers they believe are more stable or prestigious, such as medicine, engineering, or law.
  6. Peer Influence:
    Friends and social networks can have a significant impact on career decisions. Young people may be influenced by their peers’ choices or seek to enter similar fields to maintain social connections.
  7. Access to Information
    Exposure to information about different career options through career fairs, seminars, online resources, and media can shape career decisions. Limited information may lead to a narrow range of choices.
  8. Role Models
    Successful professionals, celebrities, and influencers serve as role models for many youths. Seeing someone you admire succeed in a particular field can inspire you to follow a similar path.
  9. Government Policies
    Policies related to education, employment, and industry growth can affect career opportunities. Eg current govt initiatives to boost technology or agriculture sectors may encourage youths to explore careers in these fields.
  10. Technological Advancements
    The rise of digital technology and online platforms has created new career opportunities, from software development to digital marketing. This shift has led to an increased interest in tech-related fields.
  11. Financial Considerations
    Some people choose careers based on potential earnings or the need to support their families. Also, the cost of education or training for specific careers may also affect choices.

In conclusion:
Understanding these factors can help you make informed career choices. A career involves transforming your dreams and wishes into achievements and believing in yourself and your unique talents and characteristics. It also means turning your aspirations into achievements and believing that you can become anything you aspire to be.