The Benefits of a Career in Social Work
Social Worker: The Job With Many Possibilities
As a newly certified social worker, you probably know the benefits of the job your walking into, but sometimes it's nice to see it in writing. With so many possibilities in this career path you've chosen, you might need a little direction and confidence boost to get you started on your journey.
U.S. News and World Report’s Best Jobs of 2019
In 2019, six social work careers were listed in U.S. News and World Report’s Best Jobs of 2019: substance abuse counselor, clinical social worker, social and community service manager, child and family social worker, mental health counselor, and marriage and family therapist. This is a nice reminder that you've chosen a career that is valued and seen as one of the best jobs in the United States.
Growing Industry
Between 2016 and 2026, the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 27% increase in social work employment, which is outlined as faster than average growth (U.S. Department of Labor, 2018). By being a part of a growing industry, your rates will surely increase over time because of the demand for this type of work. You are important and you should be recognized as such.
The Extensiveness Of The Profession
One of the most exciting features of social work is that social workers get to work with a wide variety of client populations in a vast array of settings, both public and private, such as schools, criminal justice, health care, child welfare, nonprofit organizations, advocacy organizations, the political arena, international organizations, and mental health facilities, to name just a few.
Be The Change You Wish To See
Unlike other careers, social work provides endless opportunities to advocate for social change and build individual, family, and community capacities. Whether you're in a hospital setting or a private practice, you have the opportunity to take what you learn and apply it towards creating greater social justice and equality, or whatever it is you're passionate about.
A career in social work is an opportunity to engage in important and meaningful work that is exciting, interesting, challenging, and never boring. These benefits should make you feel good about the path you've chosen. Good luck on your journey towards making the world a better place for everyone.
Derived from: 101 Careers in Social Work, Third Edition by Jessica A. Ritter, BSW, MSSW, PhD, Ann Obermann, PhD, LCSW, & Kristin Danhoff, PhD, MSW.
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