A LACK of proper career planning is one of the main reasons why many students end up with degrees and diplomas they do not want and later find themselves stuck in jobs they do not like.

To plan a successful career, you need to know what you want to study, where you want to study and what your capabilities are.

Brenda Riesnik, principal of Birnam Business College, says many students start out with almost no idea of what type of career they would enjoy - particularly if they were underachievers at school.

But with the right guidance from career counsellors their eyes are opened to their own abilities and the opportunities available to them.

Riesnik advises that all students go for career counselling to clear up any questions they might have concerning their chosen career path. Most colleges and universities offer career counselling services at no charge.

There is also an opportunity to get more advice and make some changes in their choice of subjects during their first couple of weeks at college or university.

Some of Riesnik's tips follow:

• Don't let other people make decisions for you. If your parents do not approve of your career path, try to understand their concerns and explain to them what your choice means to you;
• Be ready to stand on your own feet. Planning a career means making some difficult choices, and choosing the best college or degree could mean separating yourself from your parents and best friends;
• Have a vision. Once you have your tertiary qualification, you need to know how to make it work for you. You must map out where you see your career going in the long term, as this will help you make the correct decisions;
• Keep learning. Once you have a job, do not get stuck in a routine. It is very important to be flexible and willing to make changes.

Keeping up with what is happening in your chosen industry is the best way to get ahead. Subscribe to newsletters and publications with a special focus on your chosen career path. Make time to attend industry events.

This will not only keep you informed about what is happening in the industry, but make you aware of opportunities out there.

• Invest in yourself. You need to be prepared to invest both time and money in your career in order to be successful. Always be on the lookout for training courses to update your skills;
• Learn from your experiences. If you suffer career setbacks, be ready to start over again, and learn from that experience. Success does not come easily, and it involves hard work, sacrifice and determination.