Identify the kind of job
you really want
A career isn’t just a title—it’s also a lifestyle, a community, and an environment where you’ll spend a lot of your time. Use this worksheet to help you hone your professional priorities.
Brainstorm a few characteristics of your ideal work setting. If you need a little inspiration, visit the
ASHA Career Portal’s Getting StartedOpens in a new window. section to read about different roles and work settings. Then, decide if those are deal-breakers (must-haves) or more like icing on the cake (nice-to-haves).
Professional Priorities Worksheet
Must-have
Nice-to-have
What patient or client population do you want to serve? (age, demographic, a mix every day, etc.)
Must-have
Nice-to-have
In what kind of setting do you want to work? (elementary school, hospital, private practice, home health, etc.)
Must-have
Nice-to-have
Do you want to collaborate, work independently, or do a bit of both?
Must-have
Nice-to-have
In what kind of work environment will you be most productive? (busy and interactive vs. quiet and secluded)
Must-have
Nice-to-have
Do you have firm lifestyle boundaries, or are you okay with travel and unpredictable hours?
Must-have
Nice-to-have
What are some other characteristics that you seek?
Must-have
Nice-to-have
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