In this exercise, you will sort four statements. Place the one you agree with the most at the top.
Deeper expertise. I want to become an expert in one area and enjoy honing my skills in an increasingly narrow field. I focus on a specialty I want to master—ideally to be the best in the country—and stay with it for a long time, perhaps my entire career.
Higher position. I want greater responsibility and authority, and I aim to climb “upward” in the organization. After about two or three years, I’m ready to move on—ideally to my manager’s job or a completely different role.
Doing a good job. My primary desire is to feel that I’m doing quality work. I want to expand my knowledge base. I tend to develop best within what I already know or in something closely related.
Doing new things. I’m happy to switch industries, companies, and tasks frequently. There’s no clear thread in what I take on; I move freely without considering old credentials when I seek new opportunities. Once I feel I’ve “got this,” I get bored and want to move on.