Careers

men discussing career options|woman in white blazer standing and smiling
Type: Vocabulary
Originally published on October 7, 2022 and last updated on July 26, 2023

The topic of careers is of paramount importance for English learners as it offers practical insights into professional paths and language enhancement.

This introduction delves into the significance of careers, exposing learners to a wide range of vocabulary related to job titles, industries and workplace dynamics. By exploring various career options and discussing personal aspirations, learners can improve their speaking and listening skills, enabling them to confidently engage in job-related conversations and interviews.

Instructions:
Go through the vocabulary below with your students and ask them to try and use this vocabaulry where possible when discussing the different conversation questions.

Careers Review

Choosing the right career path can be an extremely difficult decision for young people who have little life experience.

There are many factors that people should consider when choosing a career with salary being just one of them. People should also consider education requirements, potential job opportunities and whether they actually have a real passion for the career in question.

It is also important to consider not just what your prospects are of finding a job now, but also what the future holds and whether the job opportunities in the industry are likely to be growing ten or twenty years from now.

Useful Vocabulary

Try and use the following vocabulary when answering the question. Click to look up the definition in the dictionary

  • career path (noun)
  • crucial (adjective)
  • likely (adverb)
  • consider (verb)
  • take into account (phrase)
  • settle for something (phrasal verb)
  • factor (noun)
  • take something into consideration (phrase)
  • problematic (adjective)

Conversation Questions

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  • What should young people consider when choosing a career path?
  • Are you happy with your career choice?
  • What did you decide to follow the career path you have taken?
  • Is your career what you expected it would be when you were younger?
  • What would you like to change about the industry you are working in?
  • If you could go back in time would you change your career path?
  • Would you ever consider changing your career?
  • Why is changing a career so scary for many people?
  • If you had to change your career now, what would you do?
  • What do you think is a good career path for youngsters nowadays?
  • Do you think it's important that young people get advice and guidance when choosing a career?
Gregory
This conversation topic was prepared by Gregory

Gregory is a qualified TEFL teacher who has been teaching English as a Foreign Language (ESL) for over a decade. He has taught in-person classes in Spain and to English learners around the world online.