Knowing Your Personal Work Values Can Get You Started In The Right Direction
By Gina Mullis, Stride Career Prep Success Coach
Have you ever been asked the question, “What are you going to do after high school?” If you have, and you found yourself stressed out because you have no idea, that’s perfectly normal. Before you can decide what career you want to have in the future, there are two things you should do. First, you need to experience potential interests. Internships can help you gain first-hand knowledge of various jobs, so that you can better gauge your interests. And second, you need to identify your personal work values, to make sure the career choice is a positive match. So, if you are working for eight hours each day, it is important to consider some of your work preferences. Let’s take a look at a few categories.
Work values in the actual environment
This is considering the type of atmosphere where you work. Working indoors or outdoors, moving around frequently or sitting at a desk, and even the volume of the facility are examples of work environment. What do you value in your actual environment? You may also think about whether you would thrive in an office setting, driving a vehicle, out in a field, or in a large warehouse.
Work values in relation to job skills
You may be surprised at some of the skills used in particular jobs. For example, did you know that a career in architecture requires frequent use of math? Think about the skills you enjoy using, list them, and then keep track when you start career exploration. And, be sure to check out Stride Career Prep online for more information, too.
Other responsibilities related to work values
When you start to explore potential pathways, be sure to research the daily tasks and responsibilities for various careers. Most jobs have a list of frequent tasks that don’t always perfectly align with the main focus of the job. For example, when people think of law enforcement, they think of helping to keep civilians safe. An example of other responsibilities for that career would be composing official reports, which requires excellent writing skills.
Co-workers and your work values
Do you enjoy working on a team or by yourself? Do you want to be surrounded by people often or infrequently? These are considerations you should take into account when researching careers. Remember, your job will consume a large portion of your days, so it is important to enjoy the people with whom you work.
Hours of operation
You won’t always get to choose your work hours, especially as a brand new employee. But, work hours should be considered for the long-term. Would you be able to work third shift, overnight? Would you be able to work twelve-hour days, or work thirty days straight before getting a break? It is important to think about what type of preferences you have for hours of operation, and what times of day you naturally do your best work.
Benefits and pay aligning with your work values
You’re probably already considering the pay for potential jobs, but you should also think about benefits. Do you want a job that includes medical benefits? What about life insurance? Do you want to be paid hourly or salary? These are all aspects you can learn more about as you explore.
There are many factors to finding a career that meets your needs. And, a career that will make you truly happy should match your interests, skills, talents, and values.
To learn even more about your preferences and work values, be sure to check out this Stride Insights article on Finding Your Path!
