Now that we have an indication of what careers best fit your personality we need to start asking some important questions about how a career will affect your lifestyle. Let's look at a few things to consider when looking at jobs attributes.

What are the Education Requirements?

An important consideration should be the time it takes to acquire the education needed for the job. Some trade jobs provide on the job training and don't require any college education to get started. However most trade jobs require at least a 2 year associates degree. You'll find many professional jobs require additional education beyond a 4 year degree. You'll have to decide for yourself what you are willing to commit to your education both in terms of time and money.

Does the Income Potential Satisfy Your Lifestyle

Another consideration is the actual income you'll make.  We demonstrated earlier that  life is expensive.  We also want you to take into consideration your aspirations and pursuits in life.  Do you want to travel?  Do you want to dine at fancy restaurants?  Do you want to own a house?  We encourage you to really sit down and map out what you want for your life.   Put together your own budget of what that might look like to identify what kind of income you'll need to maintain that quality of life. 

Where Are Most Of These Jobs?

Many careers will require you and your family to move to another part of the country.  I know some of you are itching to to spread your wings and venture off so this consideration may even be what your looking for.  Others are more comfortable around their families and enjoy the places they grew up.  You'll have to decide for yourself and do a little research to find out what kinds of jobs are available in your area of study.  Pick up a local newspaper or visit online classifieds to see what kind of jobs are available in different areas of the country. 

Future outlook

We already talked a little about globalization and the rise of outsourcing.  These competent, low labor workers are eager to work and can provide business tremendous opportunity to put more in their bottom line.  Be sure that you pick a career that can not be easily outsourced.  Data entry, telemarketers, and researchers may not be a great choice.  Another market to consider is the baby boomers.  Over the next 10 years there will be a huge increase in retirement spending.  Real estate, health care, and other industries linked to our older generations are likely to do well.  While you should always pick a career you'll be happy waking up to every day, recognizing opportunity and future outlook should definitely be considered.

Do the Job Requirements Match My Personality

Refer back to your personality assessment when looking for a career.  You will do best when you find something you like to do naturally.  Being tucked away in an office all day may not be your cup of tea.  Then again, there are many people who love working alone where they can think and be creative.  Carefully look over the job requirements and day to day tasks.  Consider the typical corporate and management structure you'll be working under.  Some jobs require one to be very independent, allowing them freedom to work where and when they would like.  While it sounds great, many people would canned faster than tuna with that kind of freedom.  They need structure, task lists, and direction.  We look more into researching a career in the next section.