Final answer:
The first step in the process is to conduct career research and exploration. This involves evaluating one's interests, personal definition of career success, and using tools to decide on a career fit.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first step in the process that begins with identifying career options and ends with setting specific career goals is to conduct career research and exploration. This essential step allows a person to build their research skills, explore occupational areas of interest, and evaluate possible occupations before setting detailed goals. Having a clear understanding of one's personal definition of career success and being aware of one's strengths and interests is crucial when deciding upon a career path.
During this stage, it is recommended to use tools such as a Decision-Making Matrix to discern career fit and preference and to apply the SMART method while setting goals. Generating a list of personal characteristics and interests will contribute to making informed career choices, also considering areas where alternative scenarios might play a role. This can form a firm foundation for determining the next steps and specific actions required to achieve these goals.