Career development is the process where an individual makes decisions regarding the choice of their career, while seeking to improve their skills, domain knowledge and taking on roles (both paid and unpaid) which are aligned to their career path. It is a lifelong process of learning and decision-making that enables an individual to constantly move closer to their ideal job, skillset, and lifestyle.
Contrary to popular perceptions, career development actually starts when an individual is young. Depending on context, career development may start during high school for some but in tertiary education for others. It really depends on the context but what is most important is that career development is a process of human development across an individual's lifespan.
As such, Career development actually starts the moment an individual starts thinking about their career. It doesn't matter if it is a primary school student thinking about being a firefighter, or a high school student thinking about being an lawyer, or even a young adult deciding to enter (or leave) an job in an industry. it is about having the right information to make an informed choice. From that choice, the individual takes steps to receive appropriate education or training, apply for and find employment, and ultimately advance in their career.
For most people, it will also include changing careers and jobs at least once (and probably more often) during their work lives. Many people find themselves in need of professional advice as they encounter problems or must make decisions about their careers—for instance, when they are thinking of looking for a new job or changing occupations.
