Wednesday, September 15, 2010

On career building: The concept of job satisfaction -- 'tis no brainer. Proper planning is the key.

'Tis another career building post! This time around we take a look at one of career's most complicated aspects: job dissatisfaction. The leading cause of career change, which we consider as a pet peeve. A big hindrance to career building. So to speak, something we don't want our followers, and everyone out there in the realm of career, to experience. What about it, what causes it, how to avoid it, and its scientific origins -- you'll find it all here...

Well, maybe not its scientific origins. We sound like mad scientists sometimes (alright, all the time), but we're not as well versed in science as much as in career. But still, read. Career changers, even those who are still on the starting phase which is job hunting. It's always advised to be prepared (though we're not saying, encountering the problem is inevitable).

Once again, JobsDB.com Singapore has joined forces with Hays Singapore to bring to working professionals another info-tip for success. Take the time to read what's been posted back @ www.jobsdb.com.sg/SG/EN/Resources/JobSeekerArticle/Career%20Guide?ID=430 to be familiarised with job satisfaction and how to achieve it.



Now, that was...er, weird? Those few of you who'd been paying close attention might know why. First time for everything! Objectivity at the start. Didn't you notice? Nevertheless, in defense of the post below, in our opinion, there are some jobs that writers of career (of anything, actually) just shouldn’t be asked to do –- writing about gratitude is one. A writer's goal is to draw readers into buying his books or bookmarking his blog (just like in our case); being senti is just inevitable if the response to the work is overwhelming. In our case, we have these:

  • 64 followers and counting
  • A continuous flow of mails
Good pieces of proof? Whether or not you think they are, what matters is that our efforts are being appreciated.

Okay, we didn’t mean to do it. We weren't asked to, either. But the temptation was just too much. We suppose we should appologise both for the aforementioned overkill and its totally uncalled-for sentimentality? Anyway, we don't want to commit the same mistake, so let's get back to business, shall we? We're talking about job dissatisfaction, yes?

Of all career topics, job dissatisfaction is perhaps the most hasty in definition. If you asked us to define the concept, we doubt if we could pull off a believable answer. When exactly does job dissatisfaction start? How can you find out? These are important questions to consider. We'd probably fall back upon the immortal words of some philosopher and ask you to contemplate yourself. Which is of course, a bit escapist, but the concept's just so personal. What you think may be a 360 degree turn from our idea.

What do we think of job dissatisfaction? It's the leading cause of career change. We don't like it at all, needless to say.... as much as we cringe every time we hear career change from our followers. "A career change is a move that should be thought of in all seriousness. Before making the decision, you need to find out if you're fit for a career change", we remember writing in one of our articles back @ www.jobsdb.com.sg/SG/EN/Resources/JobSeekerArticle/career%20events?ID=290. Hays has recently shared with us a comprehensive discussion on the topic... it's about time we share it to you guys. To help you understand things better: on why we're so particular about the option though it seems safe. Believe us, you won't want to be stuck in a career change dilemma if you care for your career.

What do we always say when it comes to making career moves, crucial ones? Consider your options before making a final decision. Is career change really your last option? Before jumping ship, the experts at Hays suggest you revisit your career plan. They're not entirely against the idea of career change (after job dissatisfaction), but they want you to take extra measures to not commit the same mistake again. Achieving job satisfaction comes with career planning. "Plans are formulated on a regular basis to control direction, make the best use of resources and measure progress or results."

Take note of the word planning. The key to job satisfaction is choosing the right industry and place to work in through planning. Do you have one? "Think of your career plan along the lines of a business plan", Hays has shared with us. Whether or not you already have something that can be called "a plan", here are important key issues a good plan covers:
  • What are my long-term career objectives?
  • What will I want to get out of my job in the next five years or so?
  • Do I need to study? If so, what for?
  • What are my individual priorities?
What's up with goals? Moving to the direction one desires is the only way to obtain career satisfaction. "Goal setting will only achieve its purpose if you adhere to the principals of measuring your progress and following the path you have planned." Don't be bothered. The process only involves a pen and a paper. Got the message?

More articles on career planning? Please visit Career Advice @ www.jobsdb.com.sg/SG/EN/Resources/JobSeekerIndex. For your easy reference, please consider reading the following:

Crucial vs. Not Crucial

The Fundamentals of Career and Success

Top 5 Time Management Mistakes

Reach Out for the Stars

How to set and achieve goals


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