How to Look for a Rewarding First Job

Despite the Federal Reserve’s efforts, the latest job figures indicate that the job market remains robust. If you’re currently seeking employment, it’s still a favorable time to find a job.

According to the September United States Bureau of Labor Jobs Report, companies are continuing to create job opportunities, which means they are actively seeking both experienced and entry-level candidates. Why is this important to finding that job that’s rewarding?

young adults have many choices for new jobs including those not needing a college degree.

The Jobs Report Unpacked

The latest US Bureau of Labor Jobs Report covers the employment situation in the country for the month of September. Released on on the 9^th, this comprehensive report presents a snapshot of the labor market, shedding light on key factors such as the unemployment rate, job growth, wage trends, and much more. So, why was this particular report deemed “strong”? Let’s explore some highlights!

1. Job Growth:

One of the standout features of this report was the robust job growth witnessed across various sectors. September saw a staggering 336,000 new jobs added to the economy, exceeding expectations and showing that even with rising interest rates and a tightening on borrowing the economy is still growing at a decent rate. This growth is a promising sign of a strong economy, providing renewed hope for those seeking employment opportunities.

2. Decreasing Unemployment Rate:

Another reason behind the report’s strength lies in the very low unemployment rate. The September report revealed a remarkable steady level in the national unemployment rate, staying steady at 3.8%, showing that there are not a lot of people available for many of these jobs. This reflects the continuous efforts to build the economy and shows that businesses are gaining confidence, leading to increased hiring.

3. Wage Growth:

As the job market strengthens, workers can rejoice in the news of wage growth. The September report demonstrated an upward trend in average hourly earnings, indicating that employees are continuing to benefit from the growing demand for labor. This increase in wages not only boosts individual households but also contributes to overall economic growth.

4. Labor Force Participation:

A noteworthy aspect of this report is the increase in labor force participation. More individuals are entering or re-entering the job market, showcasing increased optimism and faith in the economic recovery. This surge in labor force participation hints at a broader shift in sentiment from uncertainty to confidence, as people feel more secure in their prospects of finding gainful employment. And the large increase in job vacancies shows that this is not a statistical fluke.

students have more job choices because there are so many that do not require a college degree.

Implications and Beyond:

What do these strong indicators from the US Bureau of Labor Jobs Report mean for you? Well, it’s a positive sign for both job seekers and the overall economy. The report suggests that the job market is gaining momentum, with more opportunities becoming available and businesses expanding their operations.

With the right skills and knowledge, individuals can take advantage of this upward trend and explore new professional avenues or even negotiate better compensation in their current roles. However, it’s important to note that the job market can still be competitive, and certain sectors might be experiencing different trends. It’s crucial to stay updated with the latest reports, connect with career resources, and equip yourself with the skills that are in demand to enhance your employ-ability.

Digging Deeper. More jobs not requiring a College Degree:

A review of the numbers reveals there was significant growth in areas that don’t require a college degree. When it comes to finding a job, there’s a common belief that a college degree is a prerequisite for success. However, recent reports from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) tell a different story. There is a significant growth in job opportunities that don’t require a college education. This is a growing trend and we’ll explore the diverse career paths that lie beyond the walls of academia.

taking a reliable assessment allows a student to choose a job based on both skills and personality preferences.

The Growing Trend:

According to the BLS, the job market is experiencing steady growth across a range of non-college jobs. In fact, between 2019 and 2029, it is projected that approximately 15 million new jobs will be created, with only a small percentage requiring a bachelor’s degree or higher.

What are these non-college jobs, you may ask? Well, they are diverse and can be found in various industries such as healthcare, technology, skilled trades, and more. From medical assistants and IT support specialists to welding technicians and electricians, the opportunities are both intriguing and promising.

What we’re seeing in the Bureau of Labor report is that there is significant job growth in areas like manufacturing, construction, leisure/hospitality and health care. All areas that can be accessed easily by people with either a high school diploma, Associate’s Degree, or specialist certification. There are many different types of jobs in these particular employment sectors to attract a wide range of interests, skills, and values. For most workers, it’s the first step to what can become a very rewarding career.

While pursuing a college education is undoubtedly beneficial for many, it’s important to recognize the advantages of non-college jobs as well. Here are a few reasons why exploring these career paths can be a wise decision:

a skills & personality based assessment is the best tool to help create the correct career path for those without a college degree.

1. Less student debt: College tuition fees can be astronomical, leaving many graduates burdened with student loans for years. Non-college jobs often require specialized training or certification programs, which tend to be more affordable and time-efficient.

2. In-demand skills: As technology continues to evolve, so do the demands of the job market. Non-college jobs often focus on acquiring practical skills that are in high demand, making it easier to find employment and potentially leading to quicker career advancement.

3. Competitive salaries: The misconception that non-college jobs pay poorly is simply that—a misconception. Many industries, such as skilled trades, offer excellent earning potential. Additionally, as experience and expertise grow, so do the opportunities for higher salaries.

Shattering the myth that college is the only path to rewarding careers:

With job growth, declining unemployment rates, wage growth, and increased labor force participation, this report paints a positive picture for the road ahead. The BLS job reports have shattered the myth that a college degree is the only path to a successful career. The growing number of non-college jobs offers unique opportunities for individuals who prefer a different approach to education and career development. Whether it’s the prospect of fewer student loans, the demand for practical skills, or competitive salaries, there are compelling reasons to explore the world of non-college jobs.

How do you find your way in this wide-open job market? It’s important to know what’s the right opportunity for you. Sure, you can try out a bunch of different jobs and see what you like, but there are so many variables as to why something is good or not. You may have a horrible boss, a bad commute, weird hours, or any number of things that take away from your work experience. That’s why having a strong idea of what’s right for you before you start looking can make a huge difference.

The “right” career path?

Knowing that a job checks all of the boxes, matching your interests, skills, education, and values is really important. Realizing that you’re the perfect fit for a particular career path can help you to overcome some of the struggles of the entry level position. Knowing that you have a job that matches you really well can help you get past the humps and be able to see the gold at the end of the rainbow.

Advantages of a proper assessment to enhance your ideal job search.

How many people do you know that tell you “I wish I knew then what I know now”?

Having a robust assessment can be incredibly valuable.

It can guide you in finding the right path from the beginning,
Match your temperament and interests.
Prevent you from constantly switching careers.

With a clear idea, you can confidently move forward and leave the past behind.

Career Day has partnered with MyInnerGenius to produce the most accurate personality, interests, skills, and values assessment available. An Assessment that can help you get yourself headed in the right direction, whether you’re going to college or not. Whatever you think, let this powerful assessment tell you whether you’re right or wrong. Then you can move forward with some piece of mind. But as we see in this current labor market, if college isn’t for you, don’t be discouraged – exciting career possibilities await you that don’t require a degree.

Our Career Day – MyInnerGenius Assessment