A gap analysis is a tool that helps you compare your current skills and performance with your desired or expected level. By identifying the gaps, you can plan how to bridge them with relevant training opportunities. In this article, you will learn how to use a gap analysis to enhance your career development and achieve your goals.
A gap analysis is a process of assessing the difference between your current state and your desired state in terms of skills, knowledge, competencies, or performance. You can use a gap analysis to evaluate your strengths and weaknesses, identify areas for improvement, and prioritize your learning needs. A gap analysis can be done at different levels, such as individual, team, or organizational.
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To conduct a gap analysis, you need to follow four steps: define your objectives, assess your current situation, determine your desired situation, and identify the gaps. First, you need to clarify what you want to achieve, such as a career change, a promotion, or a new project. Second, you need to evaluate your current skills and performance, using various sources of feedback, such as self-assessment, performance reviews, or surveys. Third, you need to determine your desired skills and performance, based on your objectives, the expectations of your role, or the industry standards. Fourth, you need to compare your current and desired situations and identify the gaps that need to be filled.
Founder @ Flama Strategic Career Management | Career Development and Coaching Services
You may also apply these 4 steps with the data you will get from the job ads you are interested in. 1. Define what the job(s) require(s) as competencies and skills. 2. Assess your current situation. 3. Identify the gaps.
Once you have identified the gaps, you can use them to guide your training and development plan. A gap analysis can help you identify specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and timely training opportunities that align with your career goals and the needs of your organization. It can also provide answers to questions such as what skills or knowledge you need to acquire or improve, how to acquire or improve them, what resources or support you need, how to measure progress and outcomes, and how to apply learning to work.
Founder @ Flama Strategic Career Management | Career Development and Coaching Services
After you identify your gaps for the jobs that you are interested in, make a development plan for your skills and competencies. This development plan may include getting a bachelors degree on a field that is crucial to have in your desired area of work OR a professional certificate that the employee/country reqiures OR a competency such as analytical thinking, problem-solving etc. You may need to participate in a training program for development or you may need to get experience. If it is the second, you may gain experience by getting involved with a project in your current company or join an NGO.
A gap analysis can provide several benefits, such as enhancing your professional growth and satisfaction, increasing your confidence and competence, and improving your performance and productivity. It can also help you expand your career opportunities and prospects, while contributing to your organization's goals and vision.
Founder @ Flama Strategic Career Management | Career Development and Coaching Services
Gap analysis is crucial to effectively manage your career. You need to identify the target, assess your place and move forward. If you apply this cylcle continuously I assure you that you will definetely see solid results.
A gap analysis is not a one-time activity, but a continuous process of learning and improvement. You should review and update your gap analysis regularly, based on your feedback, results, and changes in your situation. You should also celebrate your achievements and recognize your efforts. By reviewing and updating your gap analysis, you can ensure that your training and development plan is relevant, effective, and aligned with your career aspirations.
Founder @ Flama Strategic Career Management | Career Development and Coaching Services
Career management in a life long journey. You will need to continue to identify, assess and develop for life long results. Bon courage:)