5 Steps to Career Success

Formal education provides the foundation for your career, but long-term success also depends on developing practical experience, professional skills, adaptability, and a willingness to keep learning.  During higher education you may learn 95% of what you need to know for a specific occupation. The remaining 5% is extremely important - that is the skills and awareness to achieve one's full potential. Without the last 5%, sometimes the other 95% can be insufficient to get a job and start along a good career path.

Many people study and get qualified, yet still lack the key skills that make a difference to career success.

ACS's Principal John Mason explains, “I encounter so many psychology graduates who have the broad understanding of human psychology, and a bachelor’s degree, but are either unemployed, or working in low paid jobs that have little to do with psychology. So many mainstream courses miss teaching the skills that are in high demand, and so many graduates are simply oblivious to what they need to do to make an unused education usable.”

This situation is not only applicable to psychology graduates.  There are many other careers where people do well at courses, then go to work in another area altogether. Most university and college courses teach us facts and information. They give us knowledge, but often they do not provide us with the 5% we need to really do well in a career.

The best career starts with knowing yourself. Discover what motivates you, what you're passionate about, and where your strengths lie. Then choose a course that moves you closer to your goals.

Every successful professional starts somewhere. Your first course is the beginning of a journey that builds the knowledge, skills, and experience needed for long-term success. Take the first step today and invest in a future you'll enjoy.

You’ve studied a general topic, such as business, or agriculture, marketing or psychology.  You are now knowledgeable, but employers will want to know - What makes you special? What makes you unique?

Employers look for passion, a positive attitude and a thirst to learn and progress.  This is where studying for professional development (CPD) is important.  Taking specialist courses can enhance and improve your career development.

🎲 Decide what area you would like to specialise in.

🎲 Then focus on studying courses and gaining experience in that area.

🎲 Someone with specialist knowledge is far more employable.

You have done your training. You are continuing to study, but that’s not enough. 

Soft skills are essential to a career success.  For a good career, you need to improve your skills in 

🎲 Punctuality

🎲 Self-discipline

🎲 Self-motivation

🎲 Problem solving

🎲 Good communication skills

🎲 Emotional intelligence

🎲 Team work

🎲 Adaptability

🎲 Leadership

Volunteering is far more than simply working without pay - it's an investment in your future. It demonstrates initiative, commitment, reliability, and a willingness to learn, all of which are qualities highly valued by employers.

Volunteering also provides valuable real world experience, helping you develop practical skills, build confidence, expand your professional network, and gain insights into your chosen industry. For many people, it can be the first step towards paid employment by providing experience that employers often look for.

Whether you're entering the workforce, changing careers, or building your professional profile, volunteer experience can strengthen your resume and help you stand out from other applicants. It shows that you're proactive, community minded, and committed to developing your skills beyond the classroom.

Many career opportunities arise through professional connections rather than advertised job vacancies. Networking allows you to learn from experienced professionals, discover new opportunities, and gain valuable industry insights.

Attend industry events, join professional associations, connect with people on LinkedIn, and maintain relationships with teachers, employers, mentors, and colleagues. Building a strong professional network takes time, but it can become one of your greatest career assets.

Remember, networking isn't about asking for favours - it's about building genuine professional relationships.

Career success rarely happens overnight. It is built through continuous learning, practical experience, professional relationships, and a willingness to embrace new opportunities.

Choose your career carefully, invest in your education, develop your skills, and never stop learning. Every step you take today is an investment in the opportunities you'll have tomorrow.

Success isn't about reaching the finish line first - it's about continually moving forward. 

Take these 5 steps to get the 5% extra you need for career success!  Study specialist and soft skills with us.

Got Questions? Email our friendly team admin@acs.edu.au for more information.