As a child, you probably dreamed of being a doctor, an artist, a firefighter or President of the United States. The fantasy jobs of children remain remarkably consistent because they all have one thing in common: they are fulfilling careers that contribute to the world in an important way.

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As a child, you probably dreamed of being a doctor, an artist, a firefighter or President of the United States. The fantasy jobs of
children remain remarkably consistent because they all have one thing in common: they are fulfilling careers that contribute to the
world in an important way.
Of course, as you get older, your definition of meaningful careers becomes more nuanced. For some, supporting a family is sufficient.
But most of us aspire to satisfying that childhood instinct for a job that makes the world a better place. However, there are far more
careers that can fit the bill than you may initially think.
In my experience as an executive recruiter, I’ve observed that there are a handful of key reasons people find careers meaningful.
Helping others
Improving the lives of those in need is at the heart of finding a meaningful career for many professionals and certainly has the most
obvious impact. Think beyond charitable work. Medical professionals, religious leaders, civil servants, teachers, interpreters and more
all impact lives every day and report high levels of meaning associated with their careers.
Running an organization
C-suite executives and entrepreneurs may not seem like the poster children for finding fulfillment, but these professionals actually
have an enormous sense of meaning. They are essential to proving a product or service, creating jobs and caring for a workforce.
Having a lasting impact
Contributing something to the world that will outlive you is also a profound motivator. That could mean writing a book, inventing a
product, designing buildings, or even raising a child. It goes towards the end goal of a legacy to be remembered by.
The Human Touch
For many, a workplace is more than just a place to conduct business. Colleagues become a personal and professional support
system. Mentoring younger professionals or supporting others through tough times can imbue day-to-day office life with purpose.
Expressing creativity
Artists, musicians and other creative professionals are unique in that their fulfillment originates in self-expression. For these folks,
expressing themselves is meaningful in and of itself but they also find meaning in inspiring others, giving enjoyment and promoting
discourse.
With so many ways for work to be meaningful, finding fulfillment can sometimes be as easy as changing your mindset as opposed to
changing career paths.
What makes work meaningful to you? Share your experiences with us.
What makes a career meaningful?
by
Brian Watson
Managing Partner – Human Resources