Identifying Your Career Values - and Why They Matter

THE CAREER COMPASS - "Helping You Find Your True North in Work and Life."

About Denise

A Careers & Executive Coach dedicated to helping professionals gain clarity, confidence, and momentum in their careers. My experience spans over 30 years in talent management, and I’m passionate about empowering people to align their careers with what truly matters to them—because success is about more than just a title or salary.

Why Values Are Key to your Career Success and Happiness

Many professionals reach a point where they start questioning whether their current role aligns with their values. When speaking with clients it’s clear that employees who align their work with personal values will always experience higher job satisfaction, improved performance, and a stronger sense of purpose – and research backs this up.

Yet, according to a recent study, up to 50% of professionals report feeling disconnected from their work. This misalignment often leads to burnout, low morale, and reduced productivity; how are you feeling?? I don’t think there is a perfect time to reflect on what truly matters and recalibrate your career goals accordingly, but I find that early in the year is often a good time!

Understanding Your Values

“What we know matters, but who we are matters more” Brene Brown

Our values are the guiding principles that define what’s important to us all ‘both in life & at work’ They are essential to happiness and wellbeing because:

• They help you identify roles and organisations that resonate with your beliefs.
• They guide your decision-making during your career journey.
• They act as a benchmark for job satisfaction and personal fulfilment.

Discover Your Values

Grab a notebook and pen, and work through this simple exercise:

1.?Reflect on Past Experiences:

• List 3-5 moments in your career when you felt happiest or most fulfilled.
• Note the common themes—was it teamwork, creativity, independence?

2.?Consider What Matters Most:

• Write down what motivates you at work: Recognition? Flexibility? Financial stability?

3.?Rank Your Top Values:

• From your list, choose your top 5 values. Rank them in order of importance.

4.?Align Your Current Role:

• Ask yourself: Does my current role reflect these values? If not, can I change that here and now – or is there a harder decision to make?

???Pro Tip:?Keep this list handy during job searches or performance reviews to ensure your decisions align with your priorities.

?? Resources to Help You Start

If you’re thinking about a career change or planning your next move here are some great resources to get you started:

??? Strategies to building a thriving leadership culture - HERE

??? Free Training - HERE

?? Blogs with Career Advice - HERE

??? Podcasts - HERE

Ready to invest to Create a Career That Aligns with ‘Your’ Values?

??? Check out my tools here to get you started – whether with a Planner, Improving your LinkedIn or reviewing your CV format and cover letters - HERE

?? My Roadmap for Success career coaching programme is designed to help you identify your values, set actionable goals, and achieve the career you deserve. Learn more here and start building a career that fulfils you. HERE

Like to have a complimentary call?

If you are at a point where you are just not sure what your next step should be for your career or internal development, then please book a call and we can have a chat about possible next steps – it’s complimentary and I promise you will leave with at least one actionable step!

???Book a free 20-minute call?to explore your next steps:??Hello call with Denise

?? Email:?[email protected]

Have a great week and if you have any questions please do reach out on mail or via DM on LinkedIn.

Warm wishes,

Denise

Careers & Executive Coach