Before you start applying to jobs, take time to learn about you. Understanding your skills, values, interests, and work preferences helps you identify jobs that are a good fit—and makes writing resumes and preparing for interviews much easier.
WHY SELF-ASSESSMENT MATTERS?
Understanding yourself is a powerful first step in the job search process. When you take time to assess your skills, values, and interests, you’re more likely to choose careers that align with your values and can support making more informed decisions about your career.
Through a strong understanding of your values, strengths, and interests, you can create more focused and compelling applications. Instead of applying to every opportunity, you can target roles that genuinely fit your preferences and abilities. This reduces the likelihood of landing in a role that may not be a great fit and increases your chances of finding a role where you can grow and thrive.
REFLECT ON THESE FOUR AREAS
- SKILLS
- Here are some questions to ask yourself: What do you do well?
- What tasks come naturally to you?
- What do others often ask you to help them with?
- VALUES
- What matters to you most in a job?
- What motivates you: helping others, stability, creativity, or teamwork?
- What kind of work culture are you seeking? Where do you thrive?
- INTERESTS
- What keeps you engaged?
- What topics or industries excite you?
- What do you enjoy reading, watching, or talking about?
- WORK STYLE PREFERENCES
- What kind of environment will help you do the best work?
Do you prefer working independently or on a team?
- Do you enjoy routine or variety?
WHERE CAN I FIND TOOLS TO HELP ME ASSESS?
- FOCUS 2: Found on the UNC Career Center website, this self-paced assessment helps you identify your top work interests, values, skills, and personality style. Additionally, it can allow you to explore potential careers and majors guided by your assessment results.
- O*NET Interest Profiler: This assessment helps you discover your career interests based on activities you enjoy, aligning them with potential career paths using the Holland Code framework.
- NC Careers Interest Finder: This assessment offers a similar exploration by matching your interests with careers in North Carolina, including salary and education information tailored to the state job market.
- Talk to a Career Coach: A coach can guide you through your self-assessment results, help connect your strengths to potential career paths, and support you in setting clear goals. They can also assist with finding resources, navigating decisions, and building confidence as you move forward.
You don’t have to figure it all out alone—schedule an appointment anytime:
Make an appointment with a career coach
WHAT DO I DO NEXT?
As you reflect on your skills, values, and interests, try to identify one to three careers that feel like a strong match. Ask yourself:
Does this path align with my values?
Can I use and grow my skills in this role?
Will I enjoy the day-to-day work and environment?
These questions can help you move forward with clarity and confidence. To take the next step, bring your thoughts to a career coaching appointment. The team at the Career Center is here to support you—wherever you are in your journey.
