Career goals are a topic that potential employers might bring up at interview, so it's worth considering yours when applying for jobs.

For example, if you are a recent graduate, your short-term career goal might be finding a way into your chosen industry.

Your long-term career goal could be establishing yourself as an important player in that industry, making significant changes to the way things are run.

Career goals are also highly likely to fluctuate throughout your working life – and it is perfectly OK if your plans are not yet fully concrete – but you should be able to talk clearly and passionately about them when asked by a potential employer.