Hope 2 Hire Blog / November 15, 2019

What’s the difference between a job and a career?

Job and career are used interchangeably, but did you know there is a difference between the two? Although both refer to the work a person does, the details of the two are quite different. Below we’ve included some of the key differences that make each term stand out.

What is a job?

While a job is work, it isn’t necessarily a long-term, one-industry path. Jobs satisfy the need for money now, and they tend to focus on completing repetitive tasks rather than networking and building upon ideas in a company. Jobs can be full- or part-time. Wages are typically paid based on how many hours are worked, and the employer sends out a paycheck every month or few weeks. With a job, salary and benefits aren’t always included. They may also require certain skills that can be learned without a degree or certification. However, none of this is to say that jobs aren’t beneficial to your future career! Jobs show that you have a strong work ethic, which is appealing to future employers. They also provide a great opportunity to learn valuable skills such as time management, customer service and communication.

What is a career?

Careers represent the working path toward an individual’s long-term goals as a professional. Typically people start in an entry-level position and gain a great deal of skills and expertise required to move further ahead in the industry. Careers are usually chosen paths based on your passions and desires, which aim for long-term work within an industry. Unlike jobs, most careers require higher education to be considered for positions. Though it’s not mandated, careers often come with salaried pay, and some careers include benefits like retirement plans, stock options, bonuses, insurance and more. And while you can hold a job for years, careers can last your entire life – even while changing work locations.

When you think about jobs and careers, know that Hope 2 Hire is here to help you navigate the path toward the legitimate employment opportunity that is right for you. Our goal is to help as many recently-released individuals find a way to support themselves and their families – whether that be by helping them find a job or career! If you’re in need of post-release assistance feel free to contact us at (901) 272-3700 or info@hopetohire.org.