Careers

Career is the progress and actions taken by a person throughout a

lifetime, especially those related to that person's occupations. A career
is often composed of the jobs held, titles earned and work
accomplished over a long period of time, rather than just referring to
one position. While employees in some cultures and economies stay
with one job during their career, there is an increasing trend to
employees changing jobs more frequently. For example, an individual's
career could involve being a lawyer, though the individual could work
for several different firms and in several different areas of law over a
lifetime.

Vocabulary
 career move: something you do in order to progress in your job
 career break: period of time away from your job to, for example, look after your children
 career plan: ideas you have for your future career
 career opportunity: chances to start/improve your career

Conversation Questions
 How ambitious are you?
 Do you have a career plan? Where do you want to be in 10 years’ time?
 Which of the following would you prefer to do?
o Work for one company during your career
o Work for several different companies
o Work for yourself
 Which of the following areas would you like to work in the future? Why?
o Sales and marketing o Administration and personnel
o Finance o Production
o Management o Research and development
 What should you do to get ahead in your career? Choose the four most important tips from the list
below and explain your reasons for the preference.
o Chace companies often o Be energetic and enthusiastic all times
o Use charm with your superiors o Be the last to leave work every day
o Attend all meetings o Find an experienced person to give you help and
o Go to your company’s social functions advice
o Study for extra qualifications in your free time
 What helps when trying to move ahead in your career?
o Personal factors (e.g. ambition, motivation, etc.)
o Workplace factors (e.g. promotion opportunities, etc.)
 What practical advice could you give to someone who wants to get ahead in their career? Make a list of
five points and describe them.