Brainstorming is powerful! A client, Duane, brainstormed several options. One of these ideas was for him to help inner-city youth develop entrepreneurial skills. After praying and researching this idea further, he felt this was the type of work God was calling him to pursue. It not only would use his business background and skills, but also would enable him to make a significant difference in people's lives.

Duane persevered until he discovered a non-profit organization whose mission was to help inner-city youth develop and run their own businesses. The organization "just happened" to be looking for a director. (We find that when people are faithful to take the steps they need to take, a lot of things "just happen." We believe this demonstrates God's willingness to be our partners when we seek to use our gifts to serve others.)

Duane applied for the position and, even though he was one of the youngest candidates, he was chosen from more than 200 other applicants. His work with the non-profit organization led to his writing, Creating True Wealth: Christian Youth Entrepreneurship. It is likely that none of this would have happened had Duane not taken the time to do some creative brainstorming about how he might use his gifts and experience for the Lord!

2) Use specialized career resources such as the Occupational Information Network (O-Net) and the Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH) to widen your vision about work options that fit your design. They can also be helpful in stimulating your thinking about ministry/volunteer activities.
 
Like many of our clients, you may find that these resources help you identify well-fitting careers that you had never before considered. Jack had worked in the hotel industry for a number of years, but wanted to do something that allowed him to “help people in a more direct way.” While reading through the OOH, he came across the description for occupational therapists, and was surprised at how well it fit his skills and interests. Today, as an occupational therapist, he is helping stroke victims regain skills and confidence in their daily lives.

3) Conduct Informational interviews to gather “live” information about career options. Informational interviewing is simply talking to people who are doing the type of work and/or volunteer activities of interest to you. It is an invaluable method of gathering information beyond what you can find in written resources. Sample questions for an informational interview include:

 What are a typical day's (week's) activities in your job?
 What do you enjoy most about your work?
 What do you enjoy least about your work?
 What is a typical salary range in this profession?
 What steps do you suggest I take if I decide to pursue this career?
 Could you suggest two or three other people with whom I could talk about this type of
      work?