What's really important to you when it comes to your job?

Whenever I work with a new client looking to change careers or even just move companies, the first thing I always get them to do is to write down the 10 - 12 things that are most important to them when it comes to their job. Typically the list would include "decent salary", "opportunity for advancement", "great colleagues", "ongoing training and development", "cool work environment" - not necessarily in that order but these are certainly the most common to make the list.

This week I have to admit I was pleasantly surprised when one particular list included "inspiration", "mentorship", "diversity", "independence", "stimulation" and "respect". It gets even better ... there was no mention of salary, dollars, financial reward (call it what you will) anywhere at all.

Does this mean that this particular individual is any less driven to succeed or to achieve in terms of what they are looking for in their career?

NOT AT ALL.

It was refreshing to hear a more holistic or selfless approach to a career objective than one driven purely by ego, dollars and perks that may come along with a new job.

There's no denying that if you are looking for a new sales role then incentive schemes should certainly play an important part in the decision making process. However often it's not all about the money and therefore you need to ensure that there is a nice balance between financial reward as well as personal accomplishment.

Image courtesy of: er3465

Lost in transition ...

I think people underestimate the amount of angst, doubt, trepidation and apprehension that one can experience when being "in between jobs" - whether they have found themselves there by choice or perhaps as a result of a recent "unexpected reshuffle".

I am working with a very switched on Human Resources practitioner at the moment who is in the process of planning her next career step. She is absolutely desperate to get out of where she is right now to the point that she has even considered a role that would offer her half the salary package that she is currently on ... BAD MISTAKE!

Whilst she may well enjoy this other position more than she is enjoying her current role, in 18-24 months from now when she is out there interviewing again, it will be very hard to convince a new employer to literally double her salary.

As I like to refer to it, she is currently lost in transition - desperate to get out of a role where her confidence has been all but shattered, but not having enough faith in herself that she is in a position to find a new role where she will be challenged and where she will be valued by a new employer.

There is a danger in taking the first opportunity presented to you since it's often seen to be the easiest and quickest way out. Don't be fooled. Make the move only when you know it's right for you in terms of personal and professional development, financial recognition and when you will be genuinely proud to tell people where you will be working next.

Image courtesy of: phil h