How to find an industry you’ll thrive in

When you’re choosing where to start your career, it’s easy to get stuck in “decision paralysis.” There are so many industries out there—and most of us only know a handful well enough to picture ourselves in them.

The good news? A little targeted research can help you figure out what feels right (and avoid finding out the hard way that an industry isn’t for you).

Here’s how to explore your options and make an informed call.

1. Start with what you know (and what excites you)

Think about your uni subjects, part-time jobs, volunteering, hobbies—anything that’s lit you up. Then, look for industries where those skills and interests are valued. For examples, if you love analysing data in your assignments, industries like tech, finance or market research could be a fit. If you’ve thrived in creative group projects, marketing, design or communications might be worth a look.

2. Dig into the details

Go beyond the glossy recruitment pages. Use:

• Professional association websites for reports, career pathways and salary guides

• LinkedIn to see what people in those roles actually do (check their job history and posts)

• Industry-specific podcasts or blogs to hear the day-to-day from insiders

• Graduate program info to understand entry-level roles and training offered

  
  

3. Talk to people who’ve been there

Reach out to alumni, attend networking events, and make the most of the connections you've got. Ask questions like:

• “What’s a typical day like?”

• “What skills make someone stand out in your industry?”

• “What’s one thing you wish you’d known before starting?”

  
  

4. Try before you commit

If you can, try:

• Short internships or virtual work experience programs

• Volunteering with an organisation in the field

• Joining student societies linked to the industry

  
  

Even a week of hands-on exposure can tell you more than months of Googling.

Researching industries isn’t about locking yourself in forever—it’s about building a realistic picture of where you could thrive. Stay curious, ask questions, and be open to surprises. Your perfect fit might be somewhere you haven’t even looked yet.

If you’re still weighing up your options, a double major can be a smart way to keep doors open. Pairing two complementary fields—like marketing and psychology, or computer science and business—can give you a broader skill set and make you more versatile in the job market. Just make sure both areas genuinely interest you, so you’re building a combination you’ll enjoy working in.

By keeping your options open, you’ll be ready to pivot when new opportunities come along.