Why Do People Choose One Trade Over Another? Explore what makes the right career for you!
Have you ever wondered why someone becomes a plumber while another picks up the tools of a carpenter, or why some thrive in auto mechanics while others head into electrical work? The world of trades is as diverse as the people in it — and that’s what makes it fascinating.
Choosing a trade isn’t always just about the money (though we’ll get to that too). Often, it’s a mix of personality, lifestyle preferences, interests, and opportunity. Here are some of the most common — and sometimes surprising — reasons why someone might choose one trade over another.
Prior Knowledge or Experience
Sometimes the path to a trade starts at home — literally.
A person might grow up watching their parent fixing cars or building furniture in the shed. What begins as a hobby or casual interest often becomes a career. Think of the teenager who loved tinkering with engines and now runs their own auto repair business. Or the DIY home renovator who turned their passion into a full-time role in carpentry or tiling.
Having some hands-on experience can give you confidence and a head-start when entering a trade.
Working Outdoors vs. Indoors
Do you love the idea of fresh air, moving with the seasons, and being physically active throughout the day? Trades like landscaping, construction, and arboriculture might be your calling!
On the other hand, if you’re more comfortable in a climate-controlled environment, perhaps working in IT support, electrical work, or even fine-detail trades like watch repair could suit you better.
Job Satisfaction, Affinity, and Interest
Let’s face it, if you’re going to spend most of your life working, you should at least like what you do.
Some trades instantly "click" with certain people. Maybe you find satisfaction in seeing a finished product you built with your hands. Or perhaps you're the kind of person who loves solving puzzles and would thrive in a trade like electrical or plumbing, where diagnosis and repair are key.
Enjoying your trade can mean the difference between a job and a fulfilling career.
Remuneration — What Pays the Most?
Money isn’t everything, but it does matter! Trades that are in high demand or require specialised skills often pay more. For example, electricians and plumbers are consistently among the higher-paid trades, especially if they go on to run their own business. That said, the highest-paying trade isn’t always the right fit for everyone. It’s all about balancing earnings with interest and lifestyle preferences.
Opportunity and Demand
In today’s job market, trades are hot — especially where there are skill shortages.
Choosing a trade with strong future demand can lead to better job security and quicker entry into the workforce. Fields like aged care, welding, or green energy installation are booming right now. If you're strategic, you can pick a trade that aligns both with your passion and with where the jobs are.
Team Player or Lone Wolf?
Personality plays a big role in trade selection.
Some people thrive in team settings — think of a construction site for example! Others prefer to work solo, like a locksmith, gardener, or appliance technician.
Knowing how you work best — with others or alone — can help you choose a trade that keeps you motivated and satisfied.
Work Conditions — Clean, Dirty, or Risky?
Trades vary widely in their day-to-day environments.
Some are neat and controlled (like electronics repair or hairdressing), while others are dirtier or more physically demanding (like plumbing, roofing, or concreting). And then there’s the element of risk — some people are comfortable with heights, heavy equipment, or unpredictable environments, while others prefer work that's more routine and lower-risk.