Are you contemplating a job change?
Are you tired of working a job that you view as a “dead end”?
Then it’s about time you decide what you ultimately want out of a job. For success and happiness at work you should be giving your time and talents to a company that fits your values.
But….before you can search for a job that fits your values, you must know what your values are and what they mean to you.
Take some time to really think about what’s important in your life.
What are your top priorities? With these ideas in mind make a list of five to ten words that describe your values.
Keep in mind that if you are a money and power driven person then you may not want to work for charities. Or, if you’re heart bleeds for children (yours or others
), don’t work for an organization that doesn’t allow you time flexibility to serve your family.Next, write a description of these words, detailing what each means to you.
Study them to see if you can find a relationship among them or possibly place them into two groups with a related theme. Be specific with your words or phrases. Pick items that truly agree with who you are and how you see yourself. Avoid choosing jobs that others say would be a good pick for you, unless you know and trust these people.
For help with finding values that are meaningful to you check out our Online Career Coach free sample on Values here.
From there, start researching the companies you find of interest.
Read company mission statements to see if their goals line up with your own. Speak with current and past employees to ask their opinions of whether or not the company lives up to the standards that they claim. Do not be shy because you are looking for a good fit for yourself. Doing your due diligence here will pay dividends later.
You might find it beneficial to get the aid of a life or career coach to help you better define your values and narrow your search.
Remember it can take time for what you are most passionate about to grow in the workplace. But, if a company’s values don’t match yours…….any passion for your work will fizzle over time.
By Brent Green and Latoya Meals
