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Test vs. Quiz

Would you rather take a test or a quiz? Notice how your muscles contract whenever you read that dreaded "test" word? Do visions of SAT, GMAT or LSAT come to mind? Once you completed your formal education and accepted a job, these tests became part of your past. No more #2 pencils or prep courses to create success.

Surely you would find success in this job - you passed the interview test and beat other qualified candidates. This organization wants YOU. In your present job, you passed the performance review test with flying colors. You passed an employment evaluation for leadership potential. Although you passed these tests, do you feel something is missing from the success you want from your work?

Some people try to find career insight from on-line quizzes that match your personality with the right career (www.lifescript.com, www.abeged.com, www.RocketCareer.com, www.ProjectCareer.com, www.Free-Career-Test.com). These quizzes may be fun and interesting but cannot guarantee that you will experience success.

If you are second-guessing your career or job choice because you cannot enjoy your present success, consider dusting off some of those test skills.

  1. PREPARATION
  • Am I prepared to look at my actions and not play the blame game?
  • Am I prepared to face challenges as opportunities?
  • Am I prepared to ask for help?

2. CRITICAL THINKING

  • Am I clear about what success will look like for my career?
  • What do I want to change about my present situation?
  • Are those changes realistic?

3. PROBLEM SOLVING

  • What resources and support do I need to make the changes I want?
  • Who can provide those resources and support?
  • What next step am I willing to take?

How you answer these test questions may change your career. Relax, enjoy! As director of your career, you already know the "right" answers.