What is difference between job and career
by Yogi P - October 21, 2023
Understanding the Difference between Job and Career
Confusion often arises in usage between the words job and career. Although these terms may be related to one another, their definitions and usages differ significantly. We’ll look at each word in detail, explain how they differ, and provide examples of how to properly use them.
Job
To start, let’s define the word job. Merriam-Webster defines it as a regular activity performed in exchange for payment, or as a specific duty or task. Individuals may have multiple jobs, as they may switch between roles to extract the most benefit from their position.
Jobs usually require more minor qualifications than a career, and provide a certain level of knowledge, skills, and experience.
We use the word job as a noun when referring to work, as in:
- “He enjoyed his job as a chemist working in the lab.”
- “She’s looking for a job in the marketing field.”
Career
In comparison, the word career refers to an individual’s lifelong ambition or occupation. Pertaining more to one’s professional journey, a career should involve long-term objectives and require unique qualifications.
It is also typically pursued over many years, and involves significant investments in skills, training, and qualifications.
We use the word career generally as a noun when referring to a person’s chosen occupation, as in:
- “He had a long and successful career as an attorney.”
- “She’s on her way to a lucrative career in finance.”
Table Summarising the Difference between Job and Career
| Word | Job | Career |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | A regular activity performed in exchange for payment, or a specific duty or task. | An individual’s lifelong ambition or occupation. |
| Usage | Noun | Noun |
| Example | “He enjoyed his job as a chemist working in the lab.” | “She’s on her way to a lucrative career in finance.” |
Comparing these words more closely, we can note the differences between them. A job refers to specific tasks and duties and is likely to be completed in the short-term. A career refers to one’s profession as a whole, the activities undertaken to pursue this, and their long-term commitments.
They provide a unique sense of satisfaction to individuals in different ways.
Quick overview of Job vs Career
| Aspect | Job | Career |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | A specific employment or occupation, often with a set of tasks and responsibilities | A long-term professional journey, involving a series of connected employment opportunities, experiences, and positions |
| Duration | May be short-term or temporary, with a focus on immediate employment | Typically long-term, spanning many years, with opportunities for growth and advancement |
| Goals | Often focused on earning income to meet immediate financial needs | Involves setting long-term goals and objectives for professional growth and development |
| Development | May not necessarily involve professional growth or advancement | Involves continuous learning, skill development, and progression within a specific field or industry |
| Commitment | Can be short-term or part-time, often with limited commitment | Requires a high level of commitment and dedication to building expertise and advancing within a chosen profession |
| Progression | May not necessarily involve advancement or promotions | Often involves a series of job changes, promotions, and increasing responsibilities |
| Example | He works a part-time job as a cashier. | She has a successful career in marketing, with a history of promotions and leadership roles. |
| Fulfillment | May provide immediate financial benefits but may not fulfill long-term professional aspirations | Often provides a sense of fulfillment and purpose in a chosen field, contributing to personal and financial growth |
| Education | May not require extensive education or specialized training | Often requires education, training, and skill development to advance in the field |
Activity to Enhance Understanding
To develop an understanding of when to use these terms, why not take a few news articles and analyze their usage. Which words do they use for each situation? Is there a difference in their usage between certain contexts? Doing this activity can help readers use job and career accurately.
Conclusion
We hope this article has helped to clarify the differences between the words job and career. Employment can be an essential part of leading a successful and fulfilling life, and understanding these terms can help readers make the most of any position they may be in.
It is important to remember that these words are distinct and should be employed accordingly.
