Job satisfaction
Job satisfaction varies according to the individual. It can be elusive and hard to attain, however it is ultimately one of life's most rewarding experiences.
Achieving job satisfaction is a journey that commences with your initial entry into the workforce. Studying and gaining workplace experience are the building blocks to job satisfaction.
Careers have specific stages comprising of both professional and personal growth, and it is not until a level of maturity is developed that most people reach career satisfaction..." know thyself". This is not necessarily an age factor as many young people achieve career satisfaction early on in their careers.
So what is it?
It can be defined as "a feeling of belonging in which time and effort become meaningless when engaged in your daily activities". Note the absence of the word WORK in this definition as many people find satisfaction in activities that are not directly related to workforce participation.
How to achieve it?
As previously mentioned career satisfaction can be a journey. This may involve short term sacrifices to ensure long term satisfaction...making decisions based on immediate career satisfaction can be short-sighted so it is important to balance both.
Consider what you are good at and what you enjoy doing. Are you interested in people or need a more technically focused approach etc.? Whatever you pinpoint can be critical to your choice of an occupation that will suit your personality, skills set and social standing.
If you are currently dissatisfied with your career identify what you don't like and avoid it...select an occupation that does not require you to perform or become involved in these tasks.
To clarify your thoughts write a small essay on what you like and how you view your ideal job...keep it honest and practical. Everyone is different in their view of the world, so don't let others influence your thoughts and be true to yourself.
Now it is time to match jobs, industry sectors and organisations to your wish list. At this point, it can be confusing and you may need professional help to finalise your career direction as it is a complex task to get right.
“Your beliefs become your thoughts,
Your thoughts become your words,
Your words become your actions,
Your actions become your habits,
Your habits become your character,
Your character becomes your destiny.”
- Mahatma Gandhi
ACMA creates successful career paths through detailed individual assessment, research and job market analysis, combined with expert personalised coaching.
Note: A Career Development Association of Australia research paper found that when professional career guidance occurred that the participant was 2.67 times more likely to secure a job.
All program services can be delivered via our interactive online cloud-based career management "Career Talk" system and/or "one-on-one" in our Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, Canberra, Melbourne, Cairns or Auckland offices.
