Your values

You may have values and beliefs that link to the type of work you want to do. Perhaps you want work that benefits other people, animals or the environment, or you may not be prepared to do some kinds of job on moral grounds. You may be interested in working for an employer that has a commitment to its employees, the environment or the local community. Terms such as ‘corporate social responsibility’ or ‘diversity’ may attract you to a particular employer or type of work.

Your values may relate to your work–life balance. Do you want to put all your energy into a career, or is work a way of funding your personal goals and interests?

The activity below will help you to think carefully about what you want from work, and give you an opportunity to reflect on your own values and beliefs and how these might impact on the type of work you want to do or the type of employer you might choose. Spend 15-20 minutes on this activity and take some time to reflect on what it says about you.