Office of Career Services

Planning a career is every individual's "great adventure" as it is the opportunity to find the work that fills your own needs. Over the course of your work-life, there are times when job-satisfaction diminishes, advancement opportunities within a current department or organization seem less viable, or your goals, values and needs change. Issues such as these usually prompt thoughts of a job or career change.

What would I enjoy? Where do I start? These questions are the same regardless of your reasons for considering a change. The answer is simple yet complex - you begin with looking at yourself. As your work-life evolves, there are certain types of responsibilities or tasks that you have enjoyed and will want to continue to do and build upon in your next position. It is also important to consider those tasks, office cultures, or organizational structures that you will prefer to avoid in your next position as they were less satisfying to your needs. 

1. What types of activities give you satisfaction?

2. What tasks do you perform especially well and have contributed to your accomplishments?

3. What experience and personal qualities do you consider strengths?

4. Will you need additional education or will you be able to transfer the skills and experience you already have into a new position?

Answers to these types of questions are an important first step because they identify the elements that can lead to career satisfaction, especially when you are considering transitions to a new career.