“What do you want to be when you grow up?”
For many Nigerians in the UK, that question hits different now. Whether you’re a new migrant, on a graduate visa, switching careers, or just fed up with your current 9–5 — it’s never too late to align your career with your true strengths.
That’s where career aptitude tests come in. These aren’t just for secondary school students. They’re powerful tools for adults — especially if you’re navigating a new country, job market, or lifestyle.
What’s a Career Aptitude Test, and Why Does It Matter?
A career aptitude test is a structured quiz or tool designed to help you discover jobs that align with your personality, skills, values, and interests. It’s like a GPS for your career path.
For Nigerians in the UK, these tests are especially useful for:
- Understanding which UK industries match your strengths
- Finding jobs where your cultural values (like community, growth, and respect) are appreciated
- Increasing your chances of getting hired and thriving in your role
4 Reasons You Should Try a Career Test
- You’re new in the UK and unsure where to start
- You want more than “just any job” — you want a fulfilling one
- You’re considering changing careers but don’t know what fits
- You want to know your true potential beyond what you studied or currently do
8 Career Aptitude Tests to Try Now
Here are some of the top career tests — many of them free — that can help you take the next step:
1. O*NET Interest Profiler
Sponsored by the U.S. Dept of Labor, but widely used globally. After a quick 20-minute quiz, it recommends UK-relevant roles based on your interests.
🧠 Best for: Discovering careers based on what you genuinely enjoy doing.
2. Keirsey Temperament Sorter
This test is ideal if you want to understand your communication and decision-making style. It maps you to work temperaments like “Guardian” or “Rational.”
🧠 Best for: Matching your personality to work environments and leadership styles.
3. TestColor
A quick test based on your emotional response to colours. It may sound odd — but it’s surprisingly accurate in identifying your core strengths.
🧠 Best for: Fast insights into your work style.
4. MAPP Career Test
Short for Motivational Appraisal of Personal Potential. It’s great for adults switching fields or restarting careers. You’ll get job ideas based on what motivates you.
🧠 Best for: Re-discovering your passion and purpose at work.
5. Holland Code (RIASEC) Career Test
A 10-minute test to discover your dominant career interests — like Social, Artistic, or Investigative — and get job ideas to match.
🧠 Best for: Understanding your natural work style and environment.
6. Princeton Review Career Quiz
Quick and effective. It maps your personality to career colours (like Red for action or Blue for planning).
🧠 Best for: Exploring work types based on your strengths.
7. Big Five Personality Test
This academic test assesses traits like openness, conscientiousness, and emotional stability.
🧠 Best for: Gaining self-awareness and finding a career that matches your personality.
8. MyPlan Career Values Test
You’ll rank statements like “In my ideal job, it’s important that…” to reveal what matters most to you — recognition, independence, etc.
🧠 Best for: Finding a job that aligns with your values (like work-life balance, respect, or impact).
Bonus Tip: Career Coaching
Want personalised support? Consider finding a career coach who understands the Nigerian/immigrant experience. Many Nigerians in the UK have found clarity and new purpose through coaching — even while juggling bills and side hustles.
Final Words: Own Your Career Journey
Don’t just chase jobs — build a career that reflects your strengths, culture, and future goals. Whether you’re on a Tier 2 visa or still figuring things out, it’s never too late to pivot or level up.
With the right tools and self-awareness, you’ll not only survive in the UK — you’ll thrive.
🔗 Find more tools, tips, and community support at Naija UK Connect
#NaijaInUK #CareerSwitch #UKJobs #NaijaUKConnect #CareerGrowth #FindYourFit
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