7 Work. Job Satisfaction.

Having a job and having a career are two very different things. A job is something you do to make money. You may enjoy the job, work hard at it and do well, but you are primarily doing it for money to satisfy your other interests outside of the work environment. A career is something that integrates your desirers and interests so what it gives you satisfaction above and beyond the money you make. It is up to each individual to decide whether a job or career is best for them. People may share the same talent and interest but other aspects of their personality will dictate which direction to go with that interest. Whether you decide to get a job or plan a career, the job market today is quite different from that of your parents. Now, not only are there no guarantees after university, institute or school, but available jobs are scarce and difficult to secure. The young person in today’s world faces a very competitive job market.

Have you ever asked yourself what you are working for? If you have ever had time to consider this question, or put it to others, you might well have heard some or all of the following. «It’s the money of course», “Work is power and a sense of status”. But you can make your job work for you. Don’t let the salary be your main reason for taking the job. Sometimes a lower paying job with the right company and the right contacts can do a lot more for you than a higher salary. Decide what is the lowest pay with which you can be satisfied. Than decide what other things can be important. How much training or experience can you get on this job? Some companies give their new employees priceless training. On-the-job experience can be very valuable to you when you apply for your next job. It gives you the practical experience that no school can offer. This can lead to a much higher salary later. Another very important item for you to think about when you apply for the job is the type of contacts you can make. OK, so now you have the job and you want to make an impression-you want people to notice you. What can you do to become a valuable employee? Do a little bit more and do it well. It really isn’t that hard to be successful in your life. It’s too bad, but many people try to do as little as they can on the job. Take advantage of that – do just a little bit more. Do remember that other employees can be helpful to you. You should at least try not to score points by being critical of a fellow employee who is also doing his or her best job. Ambition, jealousy, and personality differences are encountered on any job, but the more friends you make and the fewer enemies, the better position you are in.

With unemployment in many countries so high, and often scores of applicants chasing every job, you have to account yourself lucky to be called for an interview. If it’s your first you are bound to be nervous. How you dress and act during an interview can be as important in creating an impression as what you have to say. While many employers encourage individuality, let basic good taste determine how you dress for an interview.