If you’ve spent any time in the corporate environment, you’ve probably heard some discussion about a SWOT Analysis. It’s a powerful tool that’s used to help you understand yourself and advance your career in a fulfilling way. And, because of this, the concept continues to grow in popularity.
What is a SWOT Analysis?
A SWOT Analysis is beneficial because it is unique to you. It presents a visual explanation of the way that you fit into the competitive landscape. It helps you to recognize internal and external factors that weigh into your career choices. But, most importantly, the analysis is beneficial for identifying the next steps that should be taken for career-planning success.
The SWOT Analysis is an acronym for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats. It is incredibly beneficial because it provides a birds-eye view of your professional side. And it doesn’t take long to complete one! In this article, we’re discussing the ways for you to use a personal SWOT Analysis for your career advancement to the fullest extent.
4 Steps for Creating a Personal SWOT Analysis
A SWOT Analysis doesn’t take long! In just an hour or two, this tool grants you exceptional insight into the future of your career. It’s beneficial for anyone and everyone to do and doesn’t require a professional at all.
The four steps to creating your personal SWOT Analysis for your career are to:
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Identify Your Strengths
The first letter of the SWOT acronym is S for strength. Begin the analysis by creating a list of all your professional strengths. This might be more difficult than you expect, especially if this is your first time conducting the analysis. Give yourself some time to really think about the strengths you bring to the table.
Some techniques to help you identify your strengths are to think about times when you feel energized. Are there any instances that come to mind where time passes quickly? You can also spend this time reflecting on your success and asking for feedback from others. Taking a strength-finding test online might also provide some insight.
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Recognize Your Weaknesses
Now, it’s time to look at the areas where you can improve. Are you truly confident in your skills, education, and experience? If not, what can you do to change that? It’s important to spend some time thinking about the areas that can use some attention. This only leads to more success in the long run.
Identifying your weaknesses is much like that of your strengths. You will receive the most insight by looking in the mirror and asking the ones closest to you. Avoid becoming defensive, and instead, look at this as an opportunity to grow. If you struggle with this step, you could hire a career coach to provide an objective point of view.
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Label Your Opportunities
With your mini personality checklist in hand, you can begin to look at the opportunities that surround you. Be realistic here. Start by looking at the job market and going from there. This is another area where your network (both in-person and online) will come in handy. Make it known that you are open to new opportunities, and then take a good look at what surrounds you.
You could also consider taking advantage of online job boards, recruitment agencies, and job fairs. No matter what you do, it is vital to get a good idea of the opportunities you have access to. Hint: it’s probably much more than you realize!
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Define Any Existing Threats
Wrap it all up by pinpointing any threats that stand in your way. What are the barriers that you face? What is standing between you and your dreams? Are finances or relationships factored into your career choices? Are your own weaknesses holding you back?
When identifying your threats, it’s important to keep in mind that these are external influences. These external people, events, or situations currently stand in your way of success. What are they?
Use Your SWOT Analysis to Find the Most Success
A personal SWOT Analysis for your career is such a useful tool that you should complete one at least once a year. Doing so will help you keep track of your growth, and allow you to identify new opportunities as they arise. More than that though, a SWOT Analysis allows you to maintain alignment. It builds a bridge between your personal development and the opportunities you deserve.
Complete one today to understand yourself on a deeper level and claim success as your own.