Job Search Factors: Self Assessment

One important step in the job search process is to perform a self assessment on yourself before you start searching for a job. Examining yourself and determining what you want in a job is essential for landing the “right job.” The job needs to fit your needs and expectations in order for you to be happy and perform well. Here are some personal things you should assess before you start searching for a job:

Values . What types of things do you value about a job? For example, job security, working as team, financial rewards, status, surroundings, ability to advance, etc.

Interests . What are you interested in? Examine your life-time activities and determine what make your happy and what you enjoy doing. For example, if you love talking to people and "working the crowd" at events at parties, a sales job may be the perfect fit for you. Your career interests should include areas you are trained in or experienced in doing.

Skills . Your skills are something your do well and can utilize in a job. Part of your job search is finding jobs were you can use your skills to perform the specified task. If you're a sales professional, you'll want to find a job in sales that focuses on your people skills, offers a steady career advancement plan and focuses on sales in an industry you're interested in. Skills can be an important part of landing the job. Skills are what make your marketable.

Once your determine the values you need in a job, identify your interests and outline your skills you will be ready to effectively perform a detailed job search for careers that meet your personal criteria.