Finding a job is a challenging task, especially when you have tried different jobs but still couldn’t find the one you really love. Before starting a job search, ask yourself the five questions listed below. Once you get the answers, you will know what types of work you would like and your search will be more productive.
1. What do I love doing?
Your interest is an important factor in finding the job and the industry suitable for you. Think about the things you love to do in your spare time. Do you love spending time on internet? Do you love to play sports, watch a movie, go travelling or reading a good book? Your answer to these questions will help determine your preferred career. If you use your interests as your basis in finding a career, you will have a great time doing the job and are less likely to experience being stressed or burned out.
2. What skills do I have?
Your skill set makes you better perform certain types of work and will help you stand out from the rest of the people applying for the same position. It will be easier for you to communicate this to the employer because it’s something you know you already have. If you know them by heart, you will have a clear idea of your strengths and weaknesses and will be in a much better position to do something about them.
3. What values are important to me?
It’s also a good idea to assess your own personal values so you can choose jobs or organizations that have the same. For example, if you value respect, hard work and innovation, you would not want to take on jobs that do not put the same premium on these core beliefs. Assessing your core values will allow you to look at, not just the job offer, but also at what joining the company is all about. At the end of the day, it’s not always about the money, but about whether you will feel comfortable doing what you’re supposed to do for the organization you decide to work for.
4. What kind of lifestyle and personality do I have?
This is another equally important question you need to ask before finding a job. If you love meeting new people, a career in Public Relations or Sales may be good for you. If you are keen on helping others, you might want to consider working in the social service sector. The job you desire should match your lifestyle and personality so you enjoy every moment you spend at work.
5. What don’t I like doing?
With all these questions about what you personally want to see or happen in your career, it is time to ask the ultimate question - what don’t you like doing? Ask yourself about what to you is non-negotiable. Answering this question will help you eliminate jobs you should never apply for.
If you want to be specific about the questions you should ask yourself, here’s a few of them to help you get started:
“Am I a Leader or a Follower?”
“Am I good at planning or implementing things?”
“Am I great at selling things or making them?”
“Do I want to work in the frontline or back office?”
“What are the career choices available to me given my answers to these questions?”
The questions above can help you find the career that best suits you. Of course, there is no such thing as a perfect job. You may have likes and dislikes about your job. When faced with this dilemma, weigh your options properly and make a decision based on what you think is best for you. Good luck!