Understanding career myths and realities.

• Position: CAREERS - Brief article

Putting an effective career-building plan together is always subject to ups and downs. But it's enhanced by understanding specific myths and truths in order to best shape a purposeful career trajectory--so says Charles Wardell III, president and CEO of executive search firm Witt/Kieffer, based in Oak Brook, III.

Wardell cites four myths and truths that can potentially determine the success or failure of a particular career plan:

Myth #1 You can get it all done by age 35. Devote years up to age 35 not to furious job movement, but rather to figuring out exactly where you want to go long term.

Myth #2 It's all about the money. Not so, says Wardell. Few will ever be able to make--or spend--enough money to compensate for a career that lies fundamentally out of sync with individual interests and motivations. Let those be drivers, he says.

Myth #3 You'll be consistently rewarded for the excellence of your job performance. Unfortunately, consistent excellence will not drive consistent reward. Be aware of the need to also consistently market the value of your performance.

Myth #4 You're special. Few of us are special, Wardell notes...