Working conditions, both physical and psychological, are very important factors to consider when deciding on your next career move. If your work environment conflicts with your preferences and needs then most likely you will not achieve job satisfaction and your career goals.

Think back on the jobs that you have had and identify the working conditions that you liked and disliked. Based on your previous experience identify the main working conditions you would like to be present at your new job.

Use the following list to help you to identify the type of environment that you work best in. Transfer the main features of your ideal work environment to your Career Map.

• Travel
• Precise work
• A lot of driving
• Physical risks
• Repetitive work
• A lot of reading
• A lot of writing
• Noisy/crowded conditions
• Quiet conditions
• Working alone
• Working without stress
• Many different kinds of work
• Do the same job every day
• Work steady hours
• Work odd hours/on call
• Make own hours
• Make decisions
• Plan and schedule own work
• Work in small town/large city/suburban office park
• Work in a large/small facility
• Live near work
• Work as a team member
• Work independently
• Work under deadlines