As you approach graduation, it can be very confusing and overwhelming to figure out what kind of jobs or industries to target. Yet without a specific target, it can be incredibly challenging to develop a resume, build your network, write a 30-second summary, or engage in many tasks critical to your success.

There are strategies and tools to help you explore the myriad of opportunities that are available to you, as a university graduate. A thorough approach involves two aspects: knowing yourself and understanding the labour market.

First, it is all about knowing yourself, exploring things like your personal style, motivated skills, interests, and core values. It is understanding who you are, how you’ve changed over time, and where you see yourself in the future.

Second, is to understand the labour market, exploring what opportunities exist within your community and beyond. It is understanding industry trends, including what jobs may be in demand, or in decline, and how industries are evolving.

At its most basic, a good career fit comes from knowing who you are then finding a job, employer, or industry that values those same qualities. This “match” will allow you to bring your best self to work and to feel motivated and satisfied.