7.4: Job versus Career

As we’re moving through the career development stages, let’s examine the question of “what is the difference between a job and a career?” You may have a job in one of the earlier stages of career development, but that job may not be what you plan to pursue as a career in the later stages of career development.

Do you plan to use college to help you seek one or the other? There is no right or wrong answer because motivations for being in college are so varied and different for each student, but you can take maximum advantage of your time in college if you develop a clear plan for what you want to accomplish. The table below shows some differences between a job and a career (Dillon, 2019).

Table: Differences Between Job and Career

	JOB	CAREER
Definitions	A job refers to the work a person performs for a living. It can also refer to a specific task done as part of the routine of one’s occupation. A person can begin a job by becoming an employee, or by volunteering, for example, by starting a business or becoming a parent.	A career is an occupation (or series of jobs) that you undertake for a significant period of time in your life—perhaps five or ten years, or more. A career typically provides you with opportunities to advance your skills and positions.
Requirements	A job you accept with an employer does not necessarily require special education or training. Sometimes you can get needed learning “on the job.”	A career usually requires special learning—perhaps certification or a specific degree.
Risk-Taking	A job may be considered a safe and stable means to get income, but jobs can also quickly change; security can come and go.	A career can also have risk. In today’s world, employees need to continually learn new skills and to adapt to changes in order to stay employed. Starting your own business can have risks. Many people thrive on risk-taking, though, and may achieve higher gains. It all depends on your definition of success.
Duration	The duration of a job may range from an hour (in the case of odd jobs, for example,) to a lifetime. Generally a “job” is shorter term.	A career is typically a long-term pursuit.
Income	Jobs that are not career oriented may not pay as well as career-oriented positions. Jobs often pay an hourly wage.	Career-oriented jobs generally offer an annual salary versus a wage. Career-oriented jobs may also offer appealing benefits, like health insurance and retirement.
Satisfaction and contributing to society	Many jobs are important to society, but some may not bring high levels of personal satisfaction.	Careers allow you to invest time and energy in honing your crafts and experiencing personal satisfaction. Career pursuits may include making contributions to society.

In summary, a job gives you at least a minimal level of financial security, and a job requires you to show up and do what is required of you. In exchange, you get paid (Dillon, 2019).

A career, on the other hand, is more of a means of achieving personal fulfillment through the jobs you hold. In a career, your jobs tend to follow a sequence that leads to increasing mastery, professional development and personal and financial satisfaction. A career requires planning, knowledge and skills. A fulfilling career requires that you bring into play your full set of analytical, critical, and creative thinking skills. You will be called upon in a career to make informed decisions that will affect your life in both the short term and the long term. A career also lets you express your unique personality traits, skills, values, and interests (Dillon, 2019).