Have YOU conducted a career audit?

A-U-D-I-T, a five letter word that can present quite a bit of anxiety for the auditee due to pressure to perform, fear of failure, lack of control about the process and general uncertainty. Typically, an audit is conducted by an external party, but in this case I am challenging you to be the auditor of your own career by conducting a career audit. A career audit isn’t an official process like a financial audit, but it’s a self-assessment tool to evaluate your current career path and satisfaction. It’s taking stock of your professional life to see if it aligns with your goals and aspirations. Conducting a career audit can initially feel daunting, but ultimately it is an empowering experience when approached with an open mind. You cannot address what you do not acknowledge.

Why Conduct a Career Audit?

This is the perfect time of year for this activity as you conduct a self-assessment to evaluate your career path and satisfaction. This can involve assessing your goals, determining what has been achieved thus far, and revising your strategy as applicable. If you didn’t have a strategy, there is an opportunity to reflect on where you are today and determine what needs to be done to get you to the next level. In other words, assess your current state, your future goals and what needs to be done in between to see your dreams become a reality.

Self-Reflection Questions

Here are a few questions to get you started:

• Are you happy in your current role?
• Do you feel challenged and stimulated?
• What skills or knowledge can you gain in the next year to enhance your career options?
• Where do you see yourself professionally in 5 or 10 years? What steps can you take to get there?
• What resources or courses can help you develop the skills you need for your desired career path?

Are you ready to conduct your career audit?

Set aside dedicated time to conduct your career audit. Seriously, pencil into your calendar. Sometimes companies prompt you, when you are asked to write your individual development plan. Writing these plans are ultimately for you. You are in the drivers seat of your career.

There are no right or wrong answers to the self-reflection questions. Answering these questions require you to be honest with yourself. This may be uncomfortable especially if you realize there is a gap. Do not let this demotivate you, rather use the discomfort to propel you to make the changes needed to move your career forward. A career audit is not a one-time exercise but should be a recurring practice. Conducting a career audit can empower you to make informed decisions and take action towards a more fulfilling career.

𝐅𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭: A career is a journey, not a destination; a career audit is like checking the map to ensure you’re still on the right path.