Using the DECIDE Model to plan your career goals

We have often talked about using goal setting frameworks when establishing and evaluating your career goals. Setting goals can be particularly useful during a career transition, whether you are considering a change of career, exploring self-employment or just looking to invest more time in personal development. Using a framework to set goals helps you focus on long term vision and short-term motivation.

Time to DECIDE

The GROW Model is great for clarifying goals, exploring options and deciding on forward actions, however, you might sometimes need more support in making informed career decisions.  However, the DECIDE Model provides a methodical approach to decision making, designed to help by breaking down decision making into manageable steps. Therefore, it can be useful if you need to develop plans of action including more complex decisions and goals.

The DECIDE Model

The DECIDE Model follows six steps and it is suggested that each step is worked through in succession, to ensure that you reach valuable and informed decisions.  Here is a breakdown of each step, with an example of how to apply the step to a job search scenario:

Define Problem or Goal

Here you need to clearly articulate what you want to achieve. In the context of a job search, this might mean identifying the type of role you want or the industry you want to move into.  You need to identify specific, measurable and achievable objectives.

Apply – “My goal is to transition from my current role into a Project Manager position within the next 6 months.”

Explore the Options

This step is about gathering information and researching potential opportunities and pathways that align with your goal. Conducting research, networking with professionals in desired fields on LinkedIn and identifying possible organisations will help you understand what is available in the current job market.

Apply – Research job description, required qualifications, salary expectations and industries currently hiring Project Managers. Connect with Project Managers for insights.

Consider the Consequences

Here it’s valuable to weigh the pros and cons of the options that were identified in the previous step.  Consider how each path aligns with your longer-term goal, plans, personal values and needs.  Will you have to make any sacrifices to meet any of these options?

Apply – “If I pursue a Project Management qualification, it will require time and money but will increase my chances of meeting my goal. If I apply now with my current skills, I may face challenges against more qualified candidates.”

Identify the Best Choice

This midway point asks you to decide based on your research and evaluation. Here you need to identify which path best aligns with your defined goal. This decision should be informed by the data and thinking you carried out over the previous steps.

Apply – Decide to complete a PRINCE2 foundation qualification while applying for project coordinator or junior project manager roles to gain experience.

Develop an Action Plan

Once you have made your decision, you need to create a plan to move forward. This will involve setting objectives that will help support you in reaching your goal.  If necessary, break these objectives down into smaller, manageable tasks in order to keep focus and momentum.

Apply – Update CV highlighting transferable skills.  Apply for at least 5 related roles per week.  Complete qualification. Network with relevant professionals on LinkedIn and at industry events.

Evaluate and Adjust

The final step involves monitoring your progress and making any adjustments as needed. Set some time aside to regularly check in that your actions are bringing you closer to your goal. Be aware of changing circumstances or new opportunities and be prepared to adapt if necessary.

Apply – After 2 months, review application responses, if opportunities or interviews are limited, consider volunteering or seek projects within my current company.

By following the methodical approach of the DECIDE Model, you can take control of your job search and goal planning and make decisions that, while complex, are meaningful and rewarding.