People tend to be happiest when their jobs match their personalities.
You may be a natural leader, skilled craftsperson or patient problem solver. You might favor a calm, subdued workplace or a fast-paced, frenetic atmosphere.
If you want to feel truly satisfied in your work life, reflect on your likes, dislikes and strengths. Develop a fulfilling, long-term career by seeking out jobs that align with your talents and preferences.
Of course, depending on your situation, it may not be practical for you to jump to a new career path right now. However, at some point in the future, an unexpected opportunity may appear in front of you, offering the chance to modify your career direction. When it does, try to make job satisfaction a top priority. With a little bit of effort, you can land a job that you truly enjoy.
Not sure how to start?
It’s quite simple, really. Begin by making a list of your personal character traits. Are you assertive or shy? Creative or logical? Impulsive or cautious? Next, create a short inventory of your work-related talents. For example, you may be particularly gifted at analyzing data, negotiating low-cost contracts, designing marketing materials or inspiring people to work as a team.
Once you create a snapshot of your personality, it’s time to research career options. Brainstorm. Talk to colleagues. Explore the Internet for industries, companies and positions that seem like a good fit. Then, narrow down your search to a few organizations or jobs that interest you, and launch a very specific, targeted job hunt.
Let’s say that you are an extrovert or “people person” with tremendous energy and outstanding communication skills. A 9-to-5 desk job may stifle your creativity and enthusiasm. Focus on positions that would allow you to leave your cubicle or office and interact with a variety of people. Also, when researching potential employers, look for companies with lively, ever-changing work environments.
Consider people-friendly industries such as hospitality, travel or food service. Also, there are jobs for gregarious people in almost every industry, from engineering to advertising. Most businesses need friendly, outgoing people in customer service, sales, public relations, corporate training and human resources roles.
But what if you prefer a quieter, less social work environment? No problem! Companies rely on introverted people to perform critical internal tasks, such as building a reliable company infrastructure, managing finances, developing Web sites and writing proposals.
If you think of yourself as a shy or reserved individual, concentrate on industries that specialize in ideas, systems or calculations (rather than people). Consider opportunities in the science, technology or finance fields. And remember that almost every organization depends on dedicated workers to fill information technology, accounting, maintenance and clerical positions.
Career building is an exciting process. There are endless options available. Back-room office jobs. Front-and-center sales jobs. Positions in management, planning, decision making, product development and service. Careers in art, food, education and health. Not only that, but people are so diverse. You can find someone with the perfect set of skills, talents and tastes for every opportunity.
Get to know yourself. Pick an industry or job that aligns with your personality. Pursue it. If you do, something surprising could happen. You might just love your work.
Eve Nicholas: Eve.GetAJob@gmail.com.
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