Before the job application process begins, you need to decide what type of work and what work conditions would fulfill and satisfy you. The more specific you can be about your expectations, the more likely you are to find satisfying work.

Your job satisfaction will be based on

• intrinsic factors—the type of work and the activities you do as part of that work

• extrinsic factors—the conditions you work in, the workspace, your supervisor and colleagues, your benefits, and the compensation you receive

Identify Your Interests

• Do I enjoy working with people, data, or things?

• How important is it to be my own boss?

• How important are salary, benefits, and job stability?

• What type of working conditions, colleagues, and job stimulation am I looking for?

• Would I rather work for a large or small company?

• Must I work in a specific city, geographical area, or climate?

• Am I looking for security, travel opportunities, money, power, or prestige?

• How would I describe the perfect job, boss, and co-workers?

As you reflect on what type of work you would like, it is important to remember factors other than the amount of pay the work offers, such as flexible working hours, job security, and opportunities for advancement.

Reflection

Think about the following questions:

Which jobs from your past or present have you enjoyed? What did you like about them?

Which jobs were your least favourite? List three reasons why. If you knew you could be successful by working hard and remaining focused on your goal, what would your dream job be?