Discussing Career Aspirations with a Peer
An informal conversation with a friend or colleague about your future career goals, what you hope to achieve, and potential paths to get there.
Situations
Choose from 6 conversations to practice
Initial Icebreaker and General Interest
Two peers casually start a conversation, expressing general interest in each other's current work or studies and gently steering towards future plans. This is where basic questions like 'What have you been up to?' or 'Thinking about your next steps?' come into play.
Sharing Immediate Next Steps
One peer shares their more immediate, concrete plans for the near future, such as applying for a specific job, pursuing further education, or starting a particular project. The other peer asks clarifying questions and offers initial feedback.
Discussing Long-Term Vision and Ideal Role
The conversation shifts to broader, more abstract career aspirations, such as an ideal industry, desired work-life balance, or the kind of impact they wish to make. Peers might fantasize about their 'dream job' or long-term career trajectory without immediate constraints.
Identifying Challenges and Seeking Advice
One peer discusses potential obstacles or challenges they foresee in achieving their career goals, such as lack of experience, specific skill gaps, or financial considerations. They might ask the other peer for advice, resources, or alternative perspectives.
Brainstorming Pathways and Opportunities
Peers actively brainstorm different ways to achieve shared or individual career goals, including networking strategies, skill development courses, potential companies, or alternative career paths they hadn't considered before.
Offering Encouragement and Mutual Support
The conversation concludes with both peers offering words of encouragement, expressing belief in each other's potential, and possibly making plans for future check-ins or offering continued support (e.g., sharing job postings, connecting them with contacts).