Career Planning
Career planning is the process of making and implementing career decisions. Mapping out a long term career direction, set goals and develop a strategy to achieve. Then you can work on your career action plan and decide the immediate steps you need to take. Don't worry if you thought you knew what you wanted and during this process you find you are now unsure. As your self awareness improves you and your chosen occupation are not a good fit. Conversely, as you investigate new options it is likely that possible careers open up to you that you weren't expecting. The process is helpful whether you have a clear vision or no idea what you want to do and you should be able to apply this process throughout your working life.
What can I offer and what do I want
Whatever stage you are at there will always be factors affecting your career choices; with one of the most important being self knowledge. This involves identifying your individual characteristics in relation to work. The main factors to consider include:
- Abilities (aptitudes)
- Attributes
- Skills
- Interests
- Values (what motivates you)
- Personal qualities
- Preferred lifestyle
- Consider also any constraints (e.g. lack of mobility) and how you might overcome them
You must identify those factors that are important to you. Build a picture of your priorities in terms of skills, interests, what motivates you, recognise what might hold you back and identify how to fill any gaps in your experience. Make a note of this to remind you or your preferences when considering different opportunities.
Making plans
Set yourself short and long term goals. Be realistic, consider the time you have available, focus on the priorities you have set for yourself, break down large tasks and review your plans regularly.
- Seek feedback whenever possible from your applications and interviews (many, though by no means all, employers will take the time to give you feedback on your written application or your performance at interview)
- Aim to take decisions based on realistic and informed choices
- Write your own action plan – you may want to engage the assistance of our training and coaching team
- Review your progress and adapt your strategy as appropriate
Making it happen
Reflect on the skills and experiences you have gained and put your plans into action by presenting yourself effectively - on paper and in person.
When you have identified opportunities and are looking for practical advice on how to get the position you want, then e-volve can assist you in marketing yourself to employers. We will assist you in writing a CV, preparing for the interview, assessment centres and other recruitment techniques. For more in-depth and practical assistance in these areas you may like to engage the services of our training and coaching team.
Taking active control of your career is the best investment you will ever make. We will help you to make the changes you need to get your career right, to plan your career both now and over the long term, and make sure you get the position you want.
e-volve can assist you from making an effective transition or to simply give guidance on what exams would benefit you most. If you feel you might benefit from these services please contact us at: careerplanning@e-volveconsulting.co.uk
