Finding a pathway into a specific job or potential career field can be fun with the right amount of planning and there are a few ways
to help make a smooth transition into a desired job. The first step is to find a way to get into the job family first, learn the ropes and
skills, then work your way into that position. An example would be to start off as a volunteer while you learn what is needed to apply
for a permanent spot in the company. If there is an opportunity to enter the workforce at an entry level job, you should grab that so
you could learn the basics first and have first chance at applying for a higher-level job.

1. Decide how you want to start and why. Either look for a volunteer opportunity in the area of your interest or search for a job where you can start at an entry level position and learn what you can before moving into a desired job. For example, volunteer at an animal shelter to work with dogs and learn all you can before applying at a veterinary clinic.

2. Dive in with a clear goal of what you need to accomplish. You found this volunteer opportunity or job for a reason. Maybe it is something you always wanted to do or maybe it is simply something you want to gain some experience from to move into this career field. For example, volunteer for a child day care center to learn how to work with young children before applying for a job with a school.

3. Have an agenda of what you hope to get out of this and how. Make a list of what skills are needed to learn, what knowledge there is to gain and where you hope to be after this experience, so you can stay on track during time spent. For example, make it a point to learn how to handle tantrums, how to diffuse fights among young children or any useful skills which are needed in childcare.

4.  Meet new people and network. Making a new friend is rewarding and can be beneficial when you have questions on a new occupation or discovering other positions within a certain profession. If you are working within a volunteer job, then cooperating with others is important and being able to share an experience or have a place to turn to in an unfamiliar situation is greater when you have more support surrounding you. This can be the first place you share an idea or collaborate with before presenting it to the supervisor. Starting something different can be a little intimidating so when you start a volunteer job you want to make the best of your time spent.

5. Keep in mind that any gained knowledge through volunteerism is considered instant on the job training and any learned professional etiquette in a corporate setting can be valuable to your objective if you are going to apply to a large company.