Career Decision Checklist | The Career Compass

Purpose & Overview

Before You Choose a Career, Course or Direction. Purpose: Make a more informed decision.

Key Checkpoints & Action Plan

23 Items

Understand Yourself

I know my interests, strengths and areas to improve.

Reflect on this criterion against your current preparation. Mark when satisfied.

I have considered the work environment I may prefer.

Reflect on this criterion against your current preparation. Mark when satisfied.

I know what matters to me: learning, income, stability, creativity, impact, independence or other

Reflect on this criterion against your current preparation. Mark when satisfied.

factors.

I have separated my preferences from other people\'s expectations.

Reflect on this criterion against your current preparation. Mark when satisfied.

Explore Options

I have identified more than one possible career direction.

Reflect on this criterion against your current preparation. Mark when satisfied.

I understand what people in these careers actually do.

Reflect on this criterion against your current preparation. Mark when satisfied.

I have looked beyond degree names and explored possible roles.

Reflect on this criterion against your current preparation. Mark when satisfied.

I have spoken with or listened to someone working in a field I am considering.

Reflect on this criterion against your current preparation. Mark when satisfied.

I have researched the future relevance and opportunities.

Reflect on this criterion against your current preparation. Mark when satisfied.

Check the Fit

The work matches some of my interests and strengths.

Reflect on this criterion against your current preparation. Mark when satisfied.

I understand the skills the career requires.

Reflect on this criterion against your current preparation. Mark when satisfied.

I am willing to develop skills I currently lack.

Reflect on this criterion against your current preparation. Mark when satisfied.

I understand the actual work, not just the title or status.

Reflect on this criterion against your current preparation. Mark when satisfied.

I can realistically see myself learning and working in this field.

Reflect on this criterion against your current preparation. Mark when satisfied.

Check the Reality

I know typical qualifications and entry routes.

Reflect on this criterion against your current preparation. Mark when satisfied.

I have considered time and financial investment.

Reflect on this criterion against your current preparation. Mark when satisfied.

I have considered location and mobility requirements.

Reflect on this criterion against your current preparation. Mark when satisfied.

I understand that no career guarantees a particular salary or outcome.

Reflect on this criterion against your current preparation. Mark when satisfied.

Make the Decision

I can explain why I am considering this option.

Reflect on this criterion against your current preparation. Mark when satisfied.

I have identified advantages and concerns.

Reflect on this criterion against your current preparation. Mark when satisfied.

I have compared it with at least one alternative.

Reflect on this criterion against your current preparation. Mark when satisfied.

I know what information is still missing.

Reflect on this criterion against your current preparation. Mark when satisfied.

I know my next step.

Reflect on this criterion against your current preparation. Mark when satisfied.

My Next 3 Priority Actions

Personal Reflection

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