Are You a People Person?

1. Please read the article below carefully.
2. Use the questions at the very end of the article to discuss with your child. Click here

This lifeguard is ready to help kids in a pool. If you also like helping people, you might like a career in the Social RIASEC theme one day.

Are you the type of person who jumps in to show others how to do things, quickly raises a hand to volunteer, or is always looking for ways to help those around you?

If so, an occupation in the Social RIASEC theme might be right for you.

How do you know if you would enjoy a career in the Social RIASEC theme?

First, ask yourself some questions to help determine your strengths, interests, and values. Do you enjoy class projects that allow you to work with other students? Can you communicate your ideas well and lead others? Are you a friendly, helpful, and trustworthy person?

If these characteristics describe you well, chances are good you’ll thrive in careers that align with the Social RIASEC theme. People in social jobs frequently enjoy working with, communicating

with, and supporting other people. They often work with people every day, perhaps teaching or providing a service to others.

What fields offer jobs in the Social RIASEC theme?

Many fields include jobs that are social in nature. The most common settings are schools, hospitals, and counseling centers. These environments provide ample opportunities to teach or help others. For instance, if you become a teacher in a school, you’ll help students develop ideas and skills. If you become a nurse, you’ll help patients heal. If you become a counselor, you’ll help people solve problems. Social careers aren’t limited to these spaces. For example, most large hotels hire a person called a concierge, a position that requires enough knowledge of a city to provide hotel guests with information about the neighborhood where they’re staying. The concierge gives recommendations for where guests might want to visit.

These are just a few of the jobs that fit with the Social RIASEC theme. There are many more options, including roles as physical therapists, childcare workers, city managers, dental hygienists, athletic and fitness trainers, tour guides, and paramedics.

Are there ways to prepare for these careers now?

If you enjoy talking to people, working in groups, teaching, or helping others, it’s quite possible that you’re already on the road to a social career. The key to preparing for these jobs is social networking—and that can mean expanding your existing social networks. Try to find people who work in an industry that interests you. For example, if you want to be a teacher, talk with your teachers about why they like their chosen career and what they needed to do to be successful. If you think you might want to be a physical therapist, look up one in your area and set up an informational interview to find out what it takes and what a typical day on the job is like. These connections are sure to provide helpful tips for pursuing your dream job.

Journal Reflection

Consider keeping a journal so you can make connections with what you’re reading.

Are you a “people person”? Why or why not?

Lesson Extensions