The job-career distinction is an important one to consider when looking for employment. While most jobs require you to work for a set amount of time, careers are more specialized and require more education and training. A career can also involve extensive professional experience.
A job is a short-term, non-paid activity, while a career is a long-term, paid profession. Both involve learning and achievement. Typically, a job is paid hourly while a career may include full-time benefits, such as paid sick days.
Most people start with an entry-level position, and move through various jobs in their industry. They may also take on several careers in the same field. These low-level jobs can lead to great opportunities.
Careers are more often than not the best way to achieve your goals, since they are the stepping stones you need to progress. They will challenge you, give you goals to work toward, and keep you motivated.
Unlike a job, a career carries with it a higher level of responsibility and pride. It is a lifelong pursuit, and requires you to invest your time, energy, and effort into it. This is a good reason to be proactive in planning your career.
Often, the job-career difference is not as clear-cut as it appears. Jobs can involve many different aspects, including mental, physical, and spiritual work.
There are many differences between a job and a career, but they are both necessary if you want to succeed. Even if your current occupation is not a career, you should still aim to make it so.