Let's talk about professional assessment tools!

This is a topic that comes up frequently when I meet with clients, and sadly, something I find to be quite underutilized. As the job market evolves, employers are increasingly using assessment tools to evaluate candidates. But these tools aren’t just for employers! They can be incredibly valuable for you, too.

Many job seekers and career changers tell me that they don't feel truly fulfilled in their current roles. This is where assessment tools can make a huge difference. By understanding your own values and strengths, you can identify what makes you happiest and most productive at work. This self-awareness can guide you toward a career that not only fits your skills, but also brings you joy and fulfillment. Here are some of my favorite career assessment tools to consider:

VA Strengths Finder: Discover your unique strengths and talents with the VA Strengths Finder. This assessment helps you identify the areas in which you excel, allowing you to showcase your best self to potential employers. https://www.viacharacter.org/

MBTI (Myers-Briggs Type Indicator): Explore your personality preferences and gain insight into how you interact with others through the MBTI. Understanding your MBTI type can help you navigate team dynamics, communication styles, and career paths that align with your natural tendencies. This one can't be taken for free, but below is an alternative. https://www.themyersbriggs.com/en-US/

16 Personalities: Like the MBTI, 16 Personalities offers a comprehensive analysis of your personality type. Dive into your traits, preferences, and behavioral patterns to uncover valuable insights for your career path. https://www.16personalities.com/

ONET Interest Profiler: Interested in exploring career options that align with your interests? Look no further than the ONET Interest Profiler. This tool assesses your preferences for various work activities and suggests potential career paths based on your results. https://www.mynextmove.org/explore/ip

Enneagram: Dig deeper into your motivations and fears with the Enneagram. This ancient personality typing system offers a nuanced understanding of your core desires, driving forces, and growth opportunities, guiding you toward a fulfilling career path. https://www.9types.com/rheti/index.php

Animal in You: Have you ever wondered which animal best represents your personality? The Animal in You assessment offers a fun and insightful look at your traits and characteristics, providing a unique perspective on your professional strengths and potential career paths. P.S. I wanted to be a sea otter, but sadly, I'm not 😄 https://animalinyou.com/

Incorporating these tools into your job search strategy can provide clarity, confidence, and direction. Whether you’re exploring new opportunities or looking to improve your current role, getting to know yourself better is a crucial first step. I encourage my clients to save all of their results and compare them to get a more complete picture. With the help of artificial intelligence, this process is more comprehensive—and fun—than ever! Gaining these insights can be a huge help as you pursue your career goals.

I'd love to hear what your favorite assessment tools are or if you've had success using any of them. Share your experiences in the comments!

#CareerDevelopment #JobSearch #CareerGrowth #CareerGuidance #CareerCareers