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The economy is expected to add almost 19 million jobs over the next decade. Start learning today the skills and training required for a career in tomorrow's work force.

Choosing a career is an important life decision. Pursuing a challenging and interesting occupation can lead to a rewarding career, while falling into job after job often fails to improve earnings or advancement prospects. The sooner you begin to consider career possibilities, the better prepared you will be to find your dream job.

There is no scientific formula for selecting a career. Work is a balancing act of costs and benefits. Having a good job will not lead to a regarding career if you are not pleased with the work you do. For example, a creative person who likes computers but dislikes mathematics probably should not choose the computer-engineering field simply for its fast job growth and high salaries. Such a person might be better suited to a career in graphic arts, a field that also uses computers but has less emphasis on math.

Of course, making a poor career choice does not necessarily mean spending the rest of your working life in a job you hate. Many people change careers because of external factors, such as changes in technology or business practices, or because of personal reasons, such as new interest in a different field. But self-assessment exercises may help prevent the time-consuming chore of switching careers. These exercises help you identify your personal interests, skills, talents, and abilities. Along with knowledge of specific occupational requirements, self-assessment exercises are a valuable tool in the career decision-making process.

Using the following information, you can match your personal characteristics and preferences with occupations that suit you best. This information cannot find you a particular job, but it can provide you with better occupational choices that might point you toward a fulfilling career.

There are some skills, abilities, and habits all employees need to bring to a job. Common traits all employers look for include the following:

Mathematics and English skills. Most jobs require employees to follow directions or add numbers. Employees should have basic skills in reading, writing, and math.

Communication skills. Almost all jobs require some interaction among workers. Employees must be able to exchange information with their peers and supervisors.

Consideration and respect. Employees should display professionalism and courtesy in dealing with their supervisors and coworkers. Employers are more likely to promote those who can work as part of a team and get along well with others.

Willingness to learn and an open mind. Employers hire workers who can accomplish tasks efficiently. Employees should strive to improve existing methods and be willing to learn new techniques and procedures.