Social Work Career

Combining a passion with a career, such as social work, is a beautiful thing. Social work is a challenging, yet rewarding field of work that many empathetic individuals have taken the role of to make a difference in the lives of people of all ages. The roles of a social worker are to shield vulnerable people, develop relationships, assess client’s needs, and identify people and communities in need of help (Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S Department of Labor). Social work is a physically, mentally, and emotionally draining field of work, involves low income, and unappreciative clients, but social workers do not choose this occupation for the income but for the outcome (Paradis 3-4). Helping people discover and determine goals within themselves

First off, A LCSW must be licensed in the state they practice in, so many MSW students must think ahead if they want to continue to be a LCSW (Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S Department of Labor) . Not only does an individual who wants to pursue a career as a LCSW need to think about where they wish to practice in, but they also need to have certain key skills as well. Being a social worker is a very physically, mentally, and emotionally demanding job. Future LCSWs need to have good physical and emotional strength to tolerate the long, irregular hours, and strain from the job (Paradis 3-4). Dealing with individuals is not the easiest job, so you need to have good people skills, as well. The individual needs to show comprehensive skills, perseverance, good listening skills, do well at applying ideas, expressing yourself clearly, cheerfulness, problem-solving skills, and able to take directions well. Social work is an ever changing job. Not one day is the same from the last. One has to be prepared for the unexpected, and always on his or her feet. He or she should have much tolerance, willpower, and eagerness to learn and study hard (Paradis 93). Intellectual curiosity is a very important trait a social worker needs to have because it is difficult to leave unsolved problems and/or unanswered questions. A genuine liking for people and the understanding of fears, needs, and undeveloped strengths is a given. Lives of others may be in your hands. A social worker must be reliable and responsible. They need to solely be there to focus on the patient and help with his or her needs. Social work is a selfless occupation (Paradis