A SWOT analysis is a commonly used assessment of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats in business. It provides a business a quick look at what is working and what needs improving in the business. So have you done a SWOT analysis of your career? As a strong proponent of proactive career planning this might provide you with a simple and familiar framework to approach your career.
Strengths = what are the personal strengths that you want to leverage either in your current job or in potentially a new job? What are the favorable things about your current work situation in terms of perks, challenges, colleagues, comp and culture. Basically what is working and why?
Weakness = where are there gaps in your skill set? What isn’t working in your current environment?
Opportunities = this is where you look at trends and possibilities both in your current situation and in the marketplace. Sometimes opportunities can come out of weaknesses and threats.
Threats = where are the vulnerabilities? This could come in terms of outdated skills, a job at risk of elimination, or a performance improvement plan. The key here is not to fall into the trap of denial or complacency. By conducting your own SWOT analysis you can begin to construct a career plan that positions you for success.
