In this article, we’re going to look at the context of career exploration in a way that’s already been done with storytelling. Back in 2004 author Christopher Booker wrote a book called the “7 Basic Plots” – it’s based on a theory that’s been around even longer and has prompted many discussions, studies, and research papers, but is now widely accepted. In fact, your English Teacher or someone else may have already mentioned it in school.
The CADI Clusters theory
The premise of the theory is that there are only seven (7) types of stories in the world. When you consider how many books, stories, fables, plays, and movies have been created to date, didn’t your mind automatically reject the idea? Imagine, every story you know—from fairy tales to space operas, biographies to psychological thrillers, and everything in between can be categorised into one of those seven types, yet each feels unique and distinct.
If you can get your head around that idea, let’s use the same idea but reverse engineer it, to consider the world of work. It’s a practical way to look at your options from a simplified starting point.
Careers can be likened to these archetypal stories, at Study Work Grow we’ve developed and use the CADI Clusters where there are only six main themes: Coordinators, Guardians, Informers, Innovators, Linkers, and Makers; but the range of jobs within them is mind-blowing.
The six CADI Career Clusters and their limitless paths
With thousands of careers available and the number growing and changing by the day, thinking about where you might fit can feel overwhelming.
Each Cluster represents a set of skills, strengths, and values. Knowing which cluster (or two) you most strongly identify with, can be used as a guide to help you explore more easily, without limiting you, or putting you in a box.
Let’s dive into these clusters to see where you might belong and, most importantly, get inspired by some of the roles you may not have considered. You might even find an emerging role or one that doesn’t exist yet.
Informers
Informers are the people who teach, advise, and guide us. Imagine roles like journalists or teachers. But the Informer cluster goes beyond those typical examples. You could be a Quantum Computing Researcher solving problems and exploring applications of quantum computing, or a Neuroscientific Data Analyst who interprets data on how the brain processes information.
How to explore it: Start with what interests you in current events or topics you love learning about. Read scientific journals, watch documentaries, or join school clubs focused on debate or writing.
Coordinators
Coordinators are the planners, organisers, and facilitators who keep things running smoothly. From project managers to event planners, they make things happen. But did you know you could also be a Gaming Community Manager who coordinates events and updates for millions of online players? Or a Military Logistics Officer supporting troops and managing resources in all kinds of challenging environments.
How to explore it: Practice organising events, even small ones like a study group. Try project-based assignments, or volunteer to lead a class activity. The more you practice managing details, the better.
Makers
Makers are creators and maintenance gurus, building and looking after the places where we live and work. People think of chefs or carpenters, but today’s Makers have even more options. You could become a Cryptocurrency Developer, designing secure digital currencies, or a Drone Pilot capturing footage of natural disasters to aid rescue teams.
How to explore it: Experiment with building or creating things—whether it’s 3D printing, coding, or art. Attend makerspaces, take online tutorials, or join clubs like robotics or art.
Linkers
Linkers are the connectors, networkers, and relationship-builders. Beyond the common idea of sales or public relations, Linkers could also include roles like Cyber Risk Consultant, helping companies stay safe from hackers, or a Gallery Supervisor linking artists and art lovers. These roles bridge people, technology, and ideas.
How to explore it: Practice networking by joining clubs or organisations, or take on roles where you have to mediate between people. You could also take on part-time jobs where communication and customer service are key.
Guardians
Guardians protect people, places, and things. While we think of doctors or firefighters, Guardians could also include Telesurgeons who operate using robots from halfway across the world or 3D Bioprinting Specialists who create human tissue for medical use. This cluster is all about mental and physical wellbeing including safety, health, and ethics.
How to explore it: Volunteer at a hospital, join a first-aid club, or even take science courses that relate to health. Look for experiences that will help you see the guardian role in action, whether it’s physical protection or cyber security.
Innovators
Innovators are the pioneers who challenge the norm and design, engineer, and manufacture all kinds of processes and things that we use and need. While traditional roles like authors or engineers might come to mind, today’s innovators are just as likely to be Renewable Energy Consultants helping us transition to clean power or Augmented Reality Designers creating interactive experiences for education or entertainment.
How to explore it: Be curious about the unknown—join an astronomy club, read up on environmental issues, or learn about the latest in tech. Look for hands-on opportunities like internships, research projects, or innovation competitions.
If you can’t see it, you can’t be it
You’re probably familiar with this phrase, but it’s so true. Most people – not just school students – can only identify the most typical jobs or jobs in their family circle.
The Clusters could help resolve this through a top-down approach:
- Identify your Cluster
- Explore industries that interest you
- Connect your Cluster with opportunities in each industry
- Check out the pathways for careers that interest you
- Take time to research the careers that you’ve never heard of
- Look for work experience opportunities to see if roles suit you in the real world
- Find ways to work towards your career goals
- Keep an open mind and be open to other careers where you skills, strengths, interests and values are needed
Remember, just like stories, there are more careers than you know about, each has its own path. With every discovery, you’ll find new options or spark new ideas, which could ultimately lead you to finding fulfilling roles that feel right for you.
