When you have taken the time to broaden your horizons and discover new professions, how can you know whether this profession or these professions are truly right for you?
It is indeed quite common to idealise a dream job.
This is why it is important to inform yourself and even test the job you dream of before starting a long training programme or resigning from your current position.
Testing a job helps reassure you about your choice and ensures that the profession truly suits you.
Gathering information
There are several ways to do this:
Testimonials from people who work in that profession
One way to better understand a specific profession is to listen to testimonials from people who already work in it. This can help you sense whether the job might appeal to you.
You can find career-change testimonials in the article about podcasts.
Interviews with your network or personal contacts
Another possibility is to meet people who are already working in the profession you are dreaming about, so that you can ask them all your questions and request advice.
It may be that no one in your direct circle works in that field.
In that case, don’t hesitate to talk about it as often as possible. Eventually, someone will know the right person who can inform you.
You can also use LinkedIn to search for connections.
You will receive more positive responses than you might expect. People generally enjoy helping others, and talking about their job is often rewarding for them.
Give it a try you have nothing to lose.
We recommend meeting several people to get a well-rounded view of the profession you are considering.
Here are some aspects to ask about in the job you have in mind:
- Daily tasks
- Most enjoyable tasks and least enjoyable tasks
- Working conditions (hours, workload, flexibility…)
- Work environment (setting, colleagues, …)
- Stressniveau.
Testing a job
There are not many organisations in Belgium that facilitate the testing of professions.
The Forem offers several options for job seekers in Wallonia to test a profession. Get in touch with them to find out what is possible for the job you would like to try.
In Flanders, VDAB also offers the BIS scheme (BeroepsInlevingsstage), a professional immersion that allows you to observe a job directly in the workplace for a short period.
Additionally, you can take advantage of the many open days and job-themed events organised throughout the year. The Cité des Métiers, EFP, IFAPME and various training centres regularly offer opportunities to discover professions in real-life conditions, observe technical workshops and ask questions to trainers and professionals. Larger events, such as the competitions and demonstrations at WorldSkills, also give a very concrete impression of different professions thanks to workshops, demonstrations and direct exchanges with participants.
Finally, we encourage you to turn once again to your network.
Don’t hesitate to ask the people you interviewed whether you can join them for an observation period or short hands-on internship for one or several weeks. A helping hand is often welcome.
