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Goal: To identify your must-haves, nice-to-haves, and dealbreakers across the key dimensions of your work life. This tool is designed to help you pause, reflect, and prioritize what truly matters in your next career chapter — so you don’t unintentionally recreate an environment that doesn’t fit.
For example: Compensation — Must Have: $120K+ base, equity optional. Leadership Style — No-Go: Micromanagement or unclear decision-making.
| Category | Must Have ✔️ | Nice to Have 👍 | No-Go 🚫 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mission Alignment - What kind of mission feels meaningful and what doesn’t align? | |||
| Compensation - What do I need financially and structurally to feel secure and motivated? | |||
| Work-Life Balance - What kind of rhythm and flexibility helps me show up as my best self? | |||
| Role & Responsibilities - ****What kind of day-to-day work energizes me and what drains me? | |||
| Team Dynamics/Culture - What kind of team environment brings out my best work? | |||
| Leadership Style - What qualities in a leader have made me feel most supported and successful? | |||
| Creative Expression - Where and how do I want creativity to show up in my work? (e.g., visual, strategic, problem-solving) | |||
| Growth Potential - What kind of learning and advancement do I want in the next chapter of my career? | |||
| Industry/Field - Which industries or topics naturally excite me — and which ones don’t? | |||
| Remote/Flexibility - What flexibility in location and hours do I need to thrive? | |||
| Recognition/Impact - How do I want to be recognized or see my work make a difference? | |||
| [Add additional categories here] |
1. Spot Alignment (or Misalignment)
Compare your matrix with your current job, an offer on the table, or roles you’re considering. Where is there fit? Where is there friction?
2. Distill into a Personal Career Criteria List
Translate your matrix into a few clear statements you can use like a compass.
Example:
I need a mission I’d advocate for personally. I thrive with transparent leadership. I need $X salary + healthcare to feel stable.
3. Use in Interviews or Networking
This exercise helps you name your why and ask better questions, like: