Whether you are a job seeker or currently employed, setting goals is a great way to give your career more value. Setting goals will allow you to grow as you aspire to reach a target. Meeting career goals will provide you with a sense of satisfaction as well. A simple career goal may involve wanting to secure a specific job or earn a specific amount of money. However, there are also more questions you can consider if you want to make strong career goals. Continue reading to discover eight questions you can ask yourself when making career goals.
Recommended webinar: Goal Setting for Canadian Newcomers - Dec 9, 2020, and Dec 15, 2020.
Q1. Do I enjoy my current job?
Personal enjoyment of your job is important. People who enjoy their work are more likely to be productive because they are optimistic and motivated to do the job well. On the other hand, staying in a job you do not enjoy may result in slower learning and making more mistakes. If this is the case, you may want to consider a change in occupation.
Q2. Am I happy with the money I am making?
If you are not happy with the amount of money you are currently earning, then you may want to consider setting a specific amount of money you wish to earn. Avoid making general goals such as “I want a raise.” Use a specific number instead to give your goal a clear finish line. For example, “My salary should reach $80,000 within three years.”
Q3. What changes are needed for me to be happy at work?
Are you unhappy at work? We discussed job enjoyment and finances, but sometimes there are other things that contribute to your happiness at work. Some examples may include, commute distance from home to work, the ability to get along with your coworkers, or the management style of your employer. Identify which factors are making you unhappy and make some changes.
Q4. What field of work am I interested in?
As a job seeker, you may feel like responding to every job application you read. However, narrowing the job search to a field of work you are interested in will save you both time and effort. Show employers that you are passionate about your desired field of work by putting more effort when crafting the job application and cover letter. Ask yourself what field of work interests you and focus your job search in that area.
Q5. What barriers are preventing me from the job I want?
Consider what barriers are preventing you from getting your desired job. Some examples may include a lack of experience, education, or technical skills. A common barrier for skilled newcomers is that many local employers do not recognize credentials from other countries. After assessing your barriers, you will want to create goals based in order to get around them. For example, make it your goal to go to school and earn the credentials required for your dream job.
Q6. Is getting a promotion or a new job a realistic goal?
Having large goals is great. However, you also need to consider the reality of your situation. Setting up impossible goals will only set you up for failure and lower your motivation for self-improvement. It is important to do research and understand the reality of your situation before making any concrete goals. This information will guide you in creating achievable goals.
Q7. Am I prepared to make any necessary changes?
Throughout the process of asking yourself these questions, you may have realized that some changes are necessary. Perhaps your new goals involve finding a different job or enrolling in school to upgrade your skills. Consider what these changes may mean for yourself and your family. Would you be able to maintain your bills if you stopped working to pursue further education?
More Questions About Your Goals?
Career Loans provides free career support services for internationally trained newcomers in Alberta and Saskatchewan. Our members will receive one-on-one career counselling with our expert counsellors who will discuss realistic career goals with you. Eligible members can also apply for a micro loan of up to $15,000 if extra funds are required to pursue your career goals.
Learn more and sign up today by clicking here!
