Kelli Smith is the senior editor for www.Edu411.org. Edu411.org is a career education directory for finding colleges and universities, training schools, and technical institutes.

(ArticlesBase SC #463250)

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ – Should I Get Help From a Career Counselor?

With thousands of workers being laid off, the competition for jobs should be strong. A career counselor may be able to help people become more focused and strategic about their job search.

Most people would probably rather get a root canal than hunt for a new job. Whether a person has been downsized, is changing careers, or just wants to find a better opportunity, hunting for a job can be frustrating and intimidating. And since more than 230,000 people have lost their jobs this year, the competition for employment is likely to be fierce. People who want to increase their odds for getting hired may want to consider finding a career counselor.

What Career Counselors Do
Career counselors can help people evaluate their skills and abilities to find a job that fits their goals and interests. They serve as coaches, teachers, and mentors to people with all different types of job experience. A qualified counselor should be able to assess a client’s traits and abilities to help direct them to an appropriate position. They also should be good listeners who can communicate well with people who may be dealing with a lot of stress and uncertainty about their job situation–and life in general.

Some career counselors may have a degree in counseling or a related field, but others may have experience in a particular field that gives them the expertise to help others. A master career counselor usually has the highest level of expertise in career counseling and has met other qualifications, such as being licensed by a state board.

Who Should Consider Counseling?
Not everyone looking to change jobs needs to see a career counselor. But people who aren’t sure where they’re headed in their careers and need help focusing may benefit from working with a coach. Workers who are thinking about getting help with their career should ask themselves:

1. Am I satisfied with my current job?
2. What do I like or dislike about my current job?
3. How can I improve my current job?
4. Do I have the work-life balance I want?
5. What are my short- and long-term goals for my career?
6. What other jobs can I qualify for with my skills?

Downsized in America
People who haven’t had to look for a job in many years may be ill-equipped for their search and may be perfect candidates for career counseling. Companies all across America are cutting jobs, forcing many workers to dust off outdated resumes. A qualified counselor can help put together a resume, practice interviewing techniques, administer assessment tests, or evaluate new career paths. The right coach can help a person evaluate jobs they’ve never considered that may allow them to use their current skills.

Changing Careers
For people who are looking for a whole new career, a counselor can help them decide whether they have the necessary skills or need to continue their education. Some people may find that the type of work they’ve been doing has become obsolete. Many unskilled workers have found themselves forced out of jobs that can be done by a computer or a machine. A good career counselor should listen to workers’ needs and assess their strengths and weaknesses to help them transition to a new career. That may mean directing clients to places they can learn about new technology or employment trends in fields that interest them.

Getting Encouragement
Richard Nelson Bolles writes in What Color Is Your Parachute? 2008: A Practical Manual for Job-hunters and Career-Changers that “Researchers discovered some years ago that while the typical job-hunt lasted around fifteen to nineteen weeks, depending on the economy, one-third to one-half of all job-hunters simply give up by the second month of their job-hunt.” Having the support of a career counselor may help some people stay focused on their job search and not become easily discouraged. The right coach can also redirect job-hunting efforts that have stalled or become unproductive.

Moving to the Next Level
Always being passed over for promotions is like going to a spring fling and never being asked to dance. It’s no fun! Workers who are having trouble advancing in their career may need some help figuring out exactly what they need to do differently to get noticed by higher ups. For some people it may be as simple as taking a few courses to learn necessary skills. Others may need advice from a career coach on how to dress, talk, or act more professionally.

Setting Career Goals
Counselors can also be helpful if people just want to make sure they are setting the right goals for their career. They may not be looking to change companies, but may be more concerned about protecting their future job security. A person who hasn’t bothered to keep abreast of changes in their industry, learn new skills, or network with influential peers are more likely to fall under the downsizing axe than someone who has worked to remain competitive.

Choosing the Right Counselor
It’s important for people to find a career counselor that fits their goals and is reputable. A good counselor should:

1. Disclose the terms of their service and fees upfront
2. Provide a copy of their ethical guidelines
3. Charge only for services provided
4. Let clients choose the services they want
5. Not make unrealistic promises.

They should also discuss what type of time commitment clients should expect to make to their counseling sessions and job-hunting strategies.

While career counselors can be helpful they may not have all the answers. They can help individuals assess their strengths and weaknesses to choose a career that fits their unique goals and needs. Like any other counseling relationship, it may take more than one try to find the right person. People looking for a career coach can check with their former employer, local job centers, universities, alumni groups, churches, and other organizations for recommendations.

Retrieved from “http://www.articlesbase.com/advice-articles/should-i-get-help-from-a-career-counselor-463250.html”

(ArticlesBase SC #463250)

Kelli Smith -
About the Author:

Kelli Smith is the senior editor for www.Edu411.org. Edu411.org is a career education directory for finding colleges and universities, training schools, and technical institutes.

]]>

Rate this Article

1
2
3
4
5

vote(s)
1 vote(s)

Feedback
RSS
Print
Email
Re-Publish

Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/advice-articles/should-i-get-help-from-a-career-counselor-463250.html

Article Tags:
career counselor, career counseling, job, career, counseling, coaching, coach, resume, employment

When to Hire a Career Counselor

Career Counselor Judith Gerberg explains what a career counselor is and when you should hire one – prior to considering major career changes in your life. (04:20)

How to Survive Office Politics

Career Counselor Judith Gerberg shares some great advice on how to survive the complex workings of office politics, and how to cope with changes in office dynamics. (02:30)

How to Stay Motivated

Career Counselor Judith Gerberg shares some useful advice on the source for motivation, how to remain motivated throughout your work and routine, and how to harness that motivation towards professional success and empowerment. (04:27)

Managing Up

Career Counselor Judith Gerberg shares some advice on how to bring enthusiasm into your work life, and how to use your skills and experience to the best of your advantage in your current workplace. (01:17)

How to Walk Through a Crossroads in Your Career?

Is finding the right job that maximizes your God-given talents becoming harder and harder? Or are you no longer finding fulfillment in your current job? If so, we can help.

Visit http://www.crossroadscareer.org for additional FREE career resources, including an 80-page career guide that provides 6 steps to helping you walk through a crossroads in your career. (03:42)

7 Keys to Avoid Inaction After Losing your Job

7 keys from a career counselor/clinical psychologist to help people get through job loss so that they will have the energy and confidence to take the actions needed in pursuing the next job.

By:
Dr. Sander I. Marcusl

Self Improvement>
Coachingl
Mar 22, 2007
lViews: 230

The Most Common Question About Resumes

As an ex-recruiter, career counselor, and résumé-writer, I’m often asked the ever popular question: “Should my résumé be 1 or 2 pages?”. This concern is valid, especially since lengthy résumés can make an applicant appear arrogant, unfocused, anxious, old, or overqualified. So how do you know when to stop writing?

By:
Cliff_BSRl

Careers>
Resumesl
Jul 14, 2010

What’s Wrong With Most Cover Letters?

7 key cover letter flaws and what to do about them.

By:
Dr. Sander I. Marcusl

Careers>
Resumesl
Jul 02, 2007
lViews: 230

Working With Executive Recruiters

Let’s make one thing clear right from the start – executive search firms, recruiters, and employment agencies are not in business to help you land a job. The recruiter is not your advocate, your friend, or your agent. Recruiters, employment agencies, and search firms are merely channels through which you may secure an opportunity for an interview!

By:
Ford R. Myersl
Careersl
Jan 16, 2008

Using Phone References and Recommendation Letters

Most people already know that they need a list of Professional References. But you might be asking, “Why do I need Letters of Recommendation at this point in my career?”

By:
Ford R. Myersl

Careers>
Career Managementl
Mar 16, 2008

When Depression Sets In

Your boss has called you into his office and taken your company ID card, and security has escorted you off the premises. You have been laid off and you are in shock, but worse than that, you feel like a criminal. As the days, weeks and months pass, you find yourself spiraling downwards. You have re-written your resume, posted applications and networked, and yet still your emotions are getting the better of you.

By:
Integrity Career Transitionsl

Careers>
Career Managementl
Mar 23, 2009

Declutter Help – Three Common Excuses For Clutter

Declutter help for dealing with the three most common excuses that people give for accumulating clutter. I’m not sure how many of these excuses pertain to you, but…

By:
Marial

Self Improvement>
Advicel
Nov 26, 2010

Tips on How to Keep Leather Shoes

Only if you clean and care for leather shoes properly, they can last a long time. Therefore, wear and water are always working against you, and if left unchecked, your leather shoes can crack and fade. Start with a quality pair of shoes from such online retailers as Dinodirect’s and Macy’s, and then follow these simple guidelines to maintain their good looks.

By:
Lily Wanl

Self Improvement>
Advicel
Nov 26, 2010

Face Fitness Formula Scam? – How to Lose Face Fat Review

For these which are thinking about cosmetic surgical procedure to decrease or remove their double chin it’s critical to understand that you’ll find other options offered. Prior to you get this kind of drastic and expensive measures such as liposuction it’s value searching in to the options.

By:
carycetmcal

Self Improvement>
Advicel
Nov 25, 2010

Absolute Close Shave With An Electric Cordless Shaver

Shaving is an important part of a man’s every day grooming routine. But, it does not have to be a difficult, frustrating task using a regular razor and mess of shaving cream. There are many different products specifically designed for men’s grooming and they are readily available in the market. If you want the very best in shaving experience, an electric shaver can exactly do that.

By:
Aaron Gregoryl

Self Improvement>
Advicel
Nov 25, 2010

What’s the Secret Behind a Close and Comfortable Shave For Men?

Like most women, men want to look better, and they know exactly how to improve their appearance easy and fast. They are more than willing to invest not only on trendy clothes and shoe wear, but they also benefit from salons and spas.

By:
Aaron Gregoryl

Self Improvement>
Advicel
Nov 25, 2010

How can you improve your communication skills?

There are people that don’t have any difficulties expressing them selves. They have natural ability for talking and seems as they have the capacity to action in every imaginable circumstances, interacting with people with different avocations and with different pastimes.

By:
Marina Janakievskal

Self Improvement>
Advicel
Nov 25, 2010

What can you do for effective communication

There are some people that don’t have any problems expressing them selves. They have the inborn talent for speaking and seems like they have the power to befall in every possible situation, communicating with people from various professions and with various interests.

By:
Marina Janakievskal

Self Improvement>
Advicel
Nov 25, 2010

Ways of Improving Your Own Style

How form your own fashion styles and how to improve the great style of your. Don’t think you have to spent so much money. There are aslo have better choice.

By:
skymonkl

Self Improvement>
Advicel
Nov 25, 2010

How to Become a Teacher

An overview of how to become a teacher, including educational requirements and attributes for becoming an effective teacher.

By:
Kelli Smithl
Educationl
Aug 12, 2009
lViews: 211

How to Become a High School Teacher

Requirements to become a high school teacher include a secondary education degree and some special skills.

By:
Kelli Smithl
Educationl
Aug 10, 2009
lViews: 322

How to Become a High School Teacher

Requirements to become a high school teacher include a secondary education degree and some special skills.

By:
Kelli Smithl
Educationl
Aug 10, 2009
lViews: 167

How to Become an Elementary School Teacher

A description of the characteristics and educational credentials you may need to become an elementary school teacher.

By:
Kelli Smithl
Educationl
Aug 10, 2009
lViews: 456

The Basics of Becoming a Substitute Teacher

If you’re interested in education, you might have thought about becoming a substitute teacher. Read on if you’re serious about taking the plunge.

By:
Kelli Smithl

Education>
Online Educationl
Aug 10, 2009
lViews: 313

Becoming a Teaching Assistant: Information and Advice

Interested in a career in education? Read on to find out why teaching assistants are becoming more and more important in modern classrooms and how to prepare for this job field.

By:
Kelli Smithl

Education>
Online Educationl
Aug 10, 2009
lViews: 337

Engineering Your Career: Courses and Degrees in Engineering Online

When you earn an online engineering degree, you’re preparing for an exciting career in any number of growing fields, like science, computers, design, construction, manufacturing, or healthcare. Find out more about the kind of engineering degrees and courses offered online, and get on your way to an exciting career on the cutting edge.

By:
Kelli Smithl

Education>
Online Educationl
Jul 30, 2009

Designs on a Degree? Online Training for the Digital Designer

If you’re creative, analytical, visually-oriented, and technologically savvy, an online degree in digital design might be the route to your ideal career. Find out more about this cutting-edge field and how earning your design degree online is quite possibly the best training method for up-and-comers like yourself.

By:
Kelli Smithl

Education>
Online Educationl
Jul 30, 2009

Add new Comment

Your Name: *

Your Email:

Comment Body: *

Verification code:*

* Required fields

Submit

Your Articles Here
It’s Free and easy

Author Navigation

My Home
Publish Article
View/Edit Articles
View/Edit Q&A
Edit your Account
Manage Authors
Statistics Page
Personal RSS Builder

My Home
Edit your Account
Update Profile
View/Edit Q&A
Publish Article
Author Box

Kelli Smith has 126 articles online

Articles Categories
All Categories

Advertising
Arts & Entertainment
Automotive
Beauty
Business
Careers
Computers
Education
Finance
Food and Beverage
Health
Hobbies
Home and Family
Home Improvement
Internet
Law
Marketing
News and Society
Relationships
Self Improvement
Shopping
Spirituality
Sports and Fitness
Technology
Travel
Writing

Self Improvement

Addictions
Advice
Coaching
Goal Setting
Law of Attraction
Motivational
NLP Hypnosis
Psychology
Public Speaking
Self Help
Stress Management
Time Management

]]>

Need Help?
Contact Us
FAQ
Submit Articles
Editorial Guidelines
Blog

Site Links
Recent Articles
Top Authors
Top Articles
Find Articles
Site Map

Webmasters
RSS Builder
RSS
Link to Us

Business Info
Advertising

Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the Terms Of Use and Privacy Policy | User published content is licensed under a Creative Commons License.
Copyright © 2005-2010 Free Articles by ArticlesBase.com, All rights reserved.

Popularity: 1% [?]

No related posts.

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

Share this Post: