The Unexamined Career…

The great thing about the Career Work-in and the various exercises it takes you through, is the thorough examination of one's career you end up with. Taking time to pause and become reflective about one's career prospects, goals, and direction is not something many feel they have the luxury to do. However, as Peter asks throughout Work Strong, do we really have the luxury NOT to take this time out and put in the effort to carefully examine our careers? 

For those seeking employment, whether currently employed or unemployed, the time it takes to work through the exercises in Work Strong should be seen as an investment in a healthier career. Taking time to be self-reflective about our careers means we will be more aware of our personality, interests, needs, and achievements.

Our personalities are fluid and change as we age and gain wisdom. It is unlikely you have the exact same personality you had when you first entered the job you currently hold. In fact, it might be that change in personality that has you wanting to move on.

As time moves along, we seek out new interests, or sometimes, new interests find us. I was not always interested in Social Media. However, about ten years ago I found forums, and soon after that weblogs, as great outlets for connecting with people about various interests. This desire to use new media to connect with others led me to a new interest and a career in Social Media.

How often have your job searches or the job searches of friends been spurred on by changing needs? Getting married? Divorced? New addition to the family, or are the kids finally moved out? All are events that change our needs and thusly, our careers may or may not need to change to meet those needs.

One thing I find very useful about reflecting upon my careers is discovering different achievements I have made. Often things go by as just routine parts of the job and are not necessarily marked with pomp and circumstance. Rediscovering these achievements will help you explain what you have to offer to your next employer and might even open up some forgotten doors.

I encourage job seekers and those considering a career change to stop and examine your career. Work Strong has many valuable exercises to help guide you along the process. You might be surprised by what you find.