When searching for your first job or making a career transition, it's easy to focus solely on getting hired. However, finding true career fulfillment requires a deeper understanding of your personal values, priorities, and non-negotiables. Here are key insights gathered from our 700+ Advizers, professionals across industries and roles, who share their thoughts on how to identify what matters most and find roles that align with your goals.
Know Your Non-Negotiables
Olivia, Manager of Global PR at a publicly-owned footwear company and Cal Poly San Luis Obispo graduate, emphasizes the importance of identifying your must-haves early: "The number one piece of advice that I was given and a piece of advice that I pass along to other people is to know your non-negotiables. So when you're looking for a job, there are so many different lenses to consider...I think it's important to recognize that your first job, and frankly, most jobs, will likely not tick all of your boxes. So knowing what is a must have for you and what is a nice to have for you will really help you out in the application and interview process."
She recommends considering factors like:
Location
Job title
Business size and industry
Work arrangement (hybrid, remote, in-person)
Learning and growth opportunities
Prioritize Learning and Growth
While many factors matter, several professionals emphasized that learning opportunities should be at the top of your list early in your career. As Olivia notes: "Learning and growth opportunity in a first job should really be like top of the list and your must have."
Nicolas, Lead UX Researcher at Bixal and University of Southern California (USC) Masters and Pennsylvania State University PhD graduate, found that staying open to learning led to fulfilling career opportunities: "Don't be super committed to one kind of path. 'cause there might be things that come along the line or you might find more about yourself or the career that you might like a lot or you might not like."
Trust Your Internal Compass and Values
It's important to know what really matters to you the most. Nicolas says, "I would say it's a very personal lesson, but one of, of trusting yourself. Know your values and follow that and let that guide you... it's tempting to take the first job offer that you get, but it may not necessarily be a job that aligns with your values. And, and in my experience, that doesn't set the scene for long-term success."
Balance Ambition with Reality
While having clear non-negotiables is important, most professionals recommend balancing your ideals with reality, especially for your first role. Olivia reminds job seekers: "There are so many different things to consider when you're looking for a job, and you might not get all of them. In fact, I could almost guarantee that you won't get all of them."
The key is identifying which factors are truly essential versus nice-to-have. This allows you to make informed decisions while remaining flexible enough to seize good opportunities.
Regular Self-Assessment
Finding career fulfillment is an ongoing process that requires regular reflection and assessment. As your career progresses, your priorities and non-negotiables may shift. Take time periodically to evaluate:
Are you still learning and growing?
Does the role align with your values?
Are your must-haves being met?
What new priorities have emerged?
The Path to Fulfillment
Remember that career fulfillment rarely happens by accident. It requires intentional choices, self-awareness, and sometimes difficult trade-offs. By clearly defining your non-negotiables while remaining open to opportunities, you can build a career that aligns with your values and goals.
Most importantly, recognize that your first job is just that - a first step. Focus on roles that offer strong learning opportunities and align with your core values, while remaining flexible on other factors that can be addressed as your career progresses.
Through careful consideration of your priorities, regular self-assessment, and a balance of idealism and practicality, you can find roles that don't just pay the bills, but provide genuine career fulfillment.
Want to learn more about how your specific background could translate into a career path? Visit us at Advize for more insights from successful, relatable professionals sharing real information to help.
If you ever want to reach out for help, advice or networking, shoot us an email at hello@advizehub.com or message us on Slack!
Wishing you success,
Emily McSherry
Founder & CEO
