PSST…A career literacy tool I teach my clients is the habit of reflecting on their knowledge. Many clients initially reject the technique claiming they do not have time for this. However, once they give it a try, they typically cannot stop talking about its benefits. I urge you to try the following technique and share your experience.
Your Knowledge is Valuable
Whether you believe it or not, your knowledge is very valuable and you are accumulating new knowledge very fast every single day. Whether in your real or your virtual life, your knowledge is unique to you. Whether you are 14 or 25 years old, your knowledge is a powerful resource. However…
- What good is this valuable, unique and powerful resource if you do not use it?
- What good is this resource if you are not aware of it?
- More importantly, how do you become aware of it if you do not reflect on what you know?
Career Theories Agree
As per the majority of career theories, self-knowledge is a priority for career decision making. Part of this self-knowledge is knowing you who are, as well as, knowing what you know. Reflecting on your knowledge therefore helps you unravel the information you need to write your resume such as your skills, interests, experiences and abilities.
Your Gateway to the Career You Want
This reflection is particularly important if you are fresh out of the education world and think that you have no skills. Knowing what you know is your gateway to finding the career you want and towards which you have mindlessly been drifting.
Examples of skills that you may already have and are unaware of are, communicator (you are a good writer, debater or presenter) or team player (you enjoy group assignments or are part of a school sports team). These skills two of the top skills to get a job in today’s world.
Additionally, think of your reflecting on your knowledge as a locator for your abilities. What you know could be a lifesaving skill for someone else. All you need to do is to reflect to find this knowledge and figure out a way to leverage it. A quick and simple example; knowing how to change a flat tire is an ability that you have and that could be lifesaving for someone stranded on a busy highway.
Using Your Knowledge
Next up…Spending some time reflecting on how you can use this knowledge to influence your career path may lead you to move on to another piece of self-knowledge. Let us say you spent your summers running a lemonade stand or supporting others during garage sales. You may find that you have an interest in entrepreneurship.
In Short
The equation is simple: Reflect on your knowledge. Spend time slowly sorting through your knowledge to unravel your interests, experiences, skills and abilities. Then figure out if there is a way to benefit from this knowledge and use it for career decision making.
Ok…I have to admit that it sounds simple but it is not that easy. You still need to schedule some reflection time.
I promise you…You will not only be amazed by what you will find but also by what can do with the knowledge you already possess! Try it and share your experience.
For, “What is knowledge if you don’t use it” – Dr. Jane Carter MD
I am Hoda Kilani, your Career and Academic Coach. I provide you with the latest strategies to innovatively craft your career journey your way.
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