Techgue | What is the first thing you think of when you hear the word career? Most people think that a career is something they can only think about when they graduate from college. In fact, career planning is very important to do from an early age. Choosing a career when you are still at school age will help you determine the right type of education and skills to support that career.
Making careful and well thought out decisions will open up wider opportunities for success. Choosing the right career that suits you will probably take a long time. In this article, we will review in depth what a career is, the difference between a career and a job and how you can plan a career. Check out the complete explanation below!
What is a Career Definition ?
Career actually has two definitions. The word career is often used to refer to a person's profession, job or calling. Career can determine what you do for a living and it can take various forms.
There are those that require training, extensive education and even what you can get with just a high school diploma and a willingness to learn. A career can also mean you work as a doctor, lawyer, teacher, carpenter, veterinary assistant, teacher, electrician, hairdresser or cashier.
Read Also : Get to Know the Factors that Influence Career Planning
Career also has other definitions. It also refers to the actions taken by a person over the years of work. A career can consist of various jobs that you have obtained and jobs that you have completed over a long time. When viewed in this context, career includes everything related to your professional development, including the choices and progress you make along the way.
Benefits of Having a Career
As previously mentioned, career is a long-term process. A career is a combination of things that are built and developed every day. This will make your career something that is closely related to your daily life and of course you should love it. There are several benefits to having a career that you like and suits you, including:
1. Makes you more enthusiastic
Many people feel bored with their work. Even the days when they go to work are what they hate the most. This will not happen when you start your work from something you like. Every day will be an opportunity to discover something new. You will also be enthusiastic about contributing to the company or place you work. Both you and your company will grow together because you are passionate about doing it.
2. You will Always Find Ways to Learn and Grow
If you have no intention and desire to develop your skills and knowledge at your current place of work, that is a sign that you need to move on immediately. Why? As a professional, it is very important to choose a role or task that makes you passionate about it. A job that will challenge you and help you grow.
Also Read : Career Planning Definition, Goals, and Examples for the Millennial
Someone who naturally likes the work they do will definitely want to try to be better at what they do. You tend to pursue opportunities that will hone your skills and help you grow professionally. It's different when you hate your job. You will only do it to get money.
3. Increase job satisfaction
Getting a good salary is certainly a happy thing for some people. But having an enjoyable career will bring its own job satisfaction. Moreover, currently there are many companies that provide benefits in the form of health and professional development programs to help maintain employee loyalty. Several other factors that can also increase levels of satisfaction and loyalty are:
- Professional development
- Opportunity to advance
- Good leadership and management
- Interesting job.
- If you want to experience extraordinary job satisfaction and happiness, find a career you love now.
How to Plan a Career
What is career planning? Career planning involves mapping out the key steps of your professional future. Starting from identifying the field you want to pursue to developing long-term goals. This method can help you develop strategies for career success.
You can start arranging or planning your career in 7 easy steps. Anything?
1. Learn about Potential Career Options
Look for information about career options from friends, family or colleagues starting from the work they do.
2. Find a Thriving Job Market
A growing job market with opportunities for increased career opportunities tends to offer the most professional potential. Try talking to experts in your field and learn about what opportunities are interesting in the future.
3. Identify a career that suits your skills
To choose a field that will make you confident and successful, consider the technical skills you have at school or at previous jobs. This will help you start your career successfully.
4. Understand the qualifications for the career you choose
Start by reviewing the degrees you need to work in your chosen field. Identify whether you need a specific degree or certification. Also determine whether you need additional degrees if you want to pursue a more advanced position.
5. Perform Assessments and Other Allowances
To assess the income potential in your chosen field, you can explore job provider sites. There you can find the average annual salary and identify factors that can increase your earning potential (for example, by obtaining a higher degree).
6. Compare Other Possible Career Paths
After considering several career paths, compare your options. Some positions may require more skills and additional degrees. Others may have much higher earning potential.
7. Set SMART goals
Because pursuing a career path can take a long time, you must set SMART goals, namely:
- S = Specific. Make your goals as precise as possible
- M = Measurable. Measure progress using benchmarks
- A = Attainable. Set achievable goals
- R = Relevant. Every career-related goal you set must be truly important and can help you achieve your long-term goals
- T = Time Based. Give a deadline or deadline for your goal.
Career is something that needs to be formed with strong will and determination. Apart from taking appropriate education, taking training according to your career can also help you to be successful.