Using Career-Related Aspects to Elicit Preferences and Characterize Occupations for a Better Person–Environment Fit

The notion of career-related aspects is presented as a potential framework for career decision-making and for assessing person–environment fit. The features of the aspects-based approach are described with reference to the two main stages of career decision-making—prescreening and in-depth exploration. Next, the distinction between the relative importance of aspects and the within-aspect preferences, the explication of career compromises, and the role of core aspects are discussed, and the findings of studies which used career-related aspects are reviewed. Then, the relations between aspects and interests and needs are discussed. Finally, the research and counseling implications of the aspects-based approach are explored.