I have been coaching professionals on their careers for many years now. From college graduates to CEO’s retiring from their corporate roles, these topics are most often covered during our coaching sessions. I don’t want to minimize the work that goes into each one of these. Knowing or rediscovering your values and strengths and aligning them will help define your next path. As we begin this new year and you feel its time to embark on a new journey considered these tips:
- Know yourself. What do you value most? Are you “people” person or are you better working alone, maybe you like both? Knowing what is important to you and living through those values will help you decide what path works for you right now. It’s okay when your priorities change, revisiting your values and passions is a life long process.
- Know the company. Research organizations that you are considering. Do they share some of the same important values? What role can you play in helping the organization meet their goals? Do you align with their goals? their culture? their offerings?
- Be authentic. Your resume, social media and interviewing style should reflect you. Your career reflects you. When aligned there is no separation between who you are personally and professionally. In other words “do you”!
- Be Confident. If you are unsure about your values or what direction is right for you, seek help. There are many free online services that can help you identify your values and strengths. If you want to go deeper seek assistance with a certified career coach. They are trained to partner with you on your journey, rather than tell you what to do. No one knows you better than you can know yourself. Find a professional partner to help you discover. When you are confident about what you are doing and who you are being, you shine with possibility!