How Do You Feel About Your Career in 2007?

The year will be over in less than 2 weeks, and it’s that time again: Time to assess how the previous year turned out. For the rest of the month, your favorite biz chicks will help you figure out what satisfies you about your current career situation and what you want to change. And beginning in January, we’re going to walk you through making those changes step by step, one month at a time. Keep your eyes peeled for more details.

For every job situation…

This is a good time to assess your goals for this year and how you did with progressing toward them.

• What did you set out to accomplish?
• What did you achieve, and what will you continue working on in 2008?
• What 3 things are you most proud of this year?
• What 3 things do you most want to change?
• Is it time to update your resume? (Assume the answer is yes.) What are you waiting for?

Here are some more situation-specific questions to prompt your thinking. Leave a comment to share your responses!

If you’re working a corporate job (or just working for someone else)…

• Are you satisfied with your level of responsibility right now?
• Does your job description match what you actually do?
• Do you feel sufficiently challenged, or is it time to start thinking about going for a promotion?
• What are your goals for next year?
• Did you get enough feedback from your supervisor this year to know what his or her goals are for you?
• Are you statisfied with those whom you supervise and have you offered both positive and critical feedback?

If you’re running a small business…

• How’s your workload? Do you have enough help, not enough help, or too much help?
• Do you feel good about work?
• Are your employees performing to your satisfaction?
• Is it time to make any changes in job descriptions or business structure to accomodate your growth in 2008?
• What specific areas would you like to improve next year?
• What specific ways can you grow your business in the next 12 months?
• Is your bookkeeping up to date and ready for tax time?
• Are you paying yourself enough?

If you’re self-employed…

• How’s business? Are you working and earning as much as you expected?
• Have you found a comfortable work-life balance? Which way do you need to tip the scales?
• How can you grow or manage your business next year?
• Are you comfortable with self-employment, or is it time to hire some outside help?
• What new areas do you want to penetrate in 2008?
• What areas do you want to stop working in next year?
• Are you ready for taxes?

Leave a comment with your thoughts, and keep watching Biz Chicks Rule for more guidance on ending the year with some strong goals. And be sure to check out this end-of-the-year checklist that’s handy for all business owners and self-employed folks.

Contents © Copyright 2007 Kristen King

(photo via SXC.hu)

Tags: new years resolutions, end of the year assessment, business goals, job satisfaction