Step three
Have you assessed yourself and explored career options? Then your next step is to set career goals.
Career goals are ideas about what you want to accomplish. Defining your goals will help you take the necessary steps to your career.
Define your goals
- Think of a long-term career goal
such as
- become an office administrator
- Consider short-term goals to help you reach this goal
- learn computer software programs
- build strong communication skills
Develop your goals
You've set your long-term career goals and defined the steps necessary to achieve them. Now all you need to do is follow your plan.
Keep in mind:
- you can have many career goals
- you can change your goals anytime
- continue to set new goals that motivate you to keep learning and striving for satisfaction.
Know when to adjust your plan
When you begin something as new and as different as starting a new career it’s not uncommon to run into road blocks.
Don't be discouraged:
- Take a look at your plan and make adjustments if necessary.
- If you find that one of the steps is not working out for you, try a different strategy.
- There are many different paths you can take to achieve the same goal.
- Remember the world of work changes quickly and so do you.
Repeat these steps as needed to develop new skills and preferences.
Page last updated in June 2007
Career Planning Process
