Five Ways Choosing a New Career is Like Holiday Shopping

by Lori Johnston

The planning it took to get those midnight Black Friday steals, Cyber Monday deals, or last-minute holiday shopping bargains can help you select one of the best presents you can give yourself: a new career.

Use those skills from holiday shopping to your advantage while considering an industry and profession that can lead to a fulfilling future and the degrees and education you need to succeed.

Here are five ways choosing a new career is like holiday shopping.

1. Compare deals ... or schools.
The research you do to get the best price on a hot children's toy or latest tech gadget can pay off when it comes to looking at schools that offer programs in your potential career field. You'll want to find a school that suits your interest, like finding the right gift for the person on your list who seems to have everything. But smart holiday shoppers also have a budget (and stick to it), so you'll want to make sure the certificate or degree programs you're considering fit into your education budget.

2. Get away from the crowds.
Pulling up to a store and being the 900^th person in line dashes most hopes of getting the "it" item on Black Friday. It's the same way in your education search -- going to the highest ranked schools is a goal, but it's much more competitive to get in than another school with the same type of program and accreditation.

3. Go online.
From Amazon Kindles to hard-to-find books to collectibles for sale on eBay, the Internet can be a major source of shopping for some folks. Using the Internet can help you easily see the differences and similarities between degree programs. You also can join the millions of folks who are learning on the Internet, too, by choosing an online degree program that fits in your schedule.

4. Avoid the last-minute rush.
It can be maddening to stand in line with other Christmas Eve shoppers, buying an item that's a last resort gift since other possible presents are sold out. Say "no" to procrastinating during the holidays and when you're looking to apply for an education program. You may miss important deadlines for enrolling or financial aid that could cause you to push back your plans an entire semester or year.

5. Don't be a Scrooge.
Having a "bah-humbug" attitude can make holiday shopping a miserable process. Instead, take time to actually enjoy the holiday tunes, kids' surprise in meeting Santa, and even those yummy seasonal coffee drinks while taking a break from shopping. Those pauses and periods of enjoyment can be essential when looking for a new career or degree program. Give yourself time to reflect on the possibilities and the exciting future in store for you!