A love match: Do you love your job? Does it love you? - News You Can Use - Brief Article

Are you and your job a match made in heaven? Or is it more like a match made in, well, the other place? In this month of kisses and candy, we invite you to take a closer look at one of the most important relationships in your life.

In the midst of a slowing economy and swelling layoffs, not to mention terrorist attacks that forever changed the workplace, many people are stepping back and reevaluating their jobs and career paths as life seems shorter and more fragile than it once did.

That's not to say that there's a mass exodus of workers from their jobs. In fact, according to the Herman Group www.hermangroup.com consultants who predict business trends, the economy and the events and aftershocks of September 11 have created a cocooning effect. Many people are wrapping themselves up in the warm security of their current jobs. They may not love what they're doing or their bosses, but they're polishing their skills and waiting for the right opportunity.

Whether you're a cocooning worker awaiting a new opportunity or a laid-off one looking for the next step, what better time is there to ponder the question of what you want in your professional life?

Career development expert Caela Farren suggests that you ask yourself

* Am I living my values?

Make a list of your values, and check that they fit with the work you're doing.

* Is my work meaningful?

Do you make a difference in the lives of others? Do you contribute to your customers, company, or community?

* Does my company treat me with dignity and respect?

Is your loyalty returned? Disrespect is a form of abuse.

* Do I use my talents, and are they appreciated?

Are you doing what you're good at, and are you appreciated for your unique contribution?

* Do I have a great manager?

Don't put up with a manager who doesn't support your career growth.

* Do I have a life? Assess the quality of your life. What's present? What's missing?

Answering those questions and examining and acting on the answers thoughtfully can help ensure that your job and you live happily ever after.

COPYRIGHT 2002 American Society for Training & Development, Inc.
COPYRIGHT 2002 Gale Group