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Planning out your career path and getting a job can be a full-time job in and of itself!
That's where a career counsellor comes in.
Their actual full-time job is to help others discover their passion and make it a reality!
What Does A Career Counsellor Do?
A career counsellor is a combination of:
Counsellor - career path planning and mental wellness development
Coach - job search, resume writing, and interview prep
Cheerleader - words of encouragement to keep clients on track
Did you know?
What Does A Typical Day Look Like?
On any given day you might:
Administer an aptitude test to a client and discuss the results
Counsel a client about their fear of failure and offer encouragement
Provide a client with a writing exercise to try before their next session
Assist a client with how to overcome their greatest weakness
Provide feedback on a client's resume layout or interview style
Suggest that a client take a public speaking course
A career counsellor is there as a guide: the client still needs to put in the work!
Quiz
What would a career counsellor NOT do for their clients?
Career counsellors can help with many aspects of the career discovery or job search process, including mental wellness and job search strategies. However, they are only there as a guide: clients should own their progress!
What Kind Of Experience Do I Need?
Exact requirements will vary between countries, regions, and jobs, but you can expect to obtain at minimum a bachelor's degree (or post-graduate certificate) in one of the following fields:
Behavioural Science
Social Science
Human Resources
Practical experience is also essential, either through an academic program, volunteer opportunity, or internship.
Depending on the specific job and location, other requirements may include:
A Master's degree in counselling
Passing a licensing exam
Additional certifications to stay up-to-date in the field
Where Might A Career Counsellor Work?
In a school setting (secondary or post-secondary)
Clients will be students looking for career search guidance as they get closer to graduation.
At a not-for-profit
Clients will be connected with your services or seek you out because they are unemployed or searching for a low-cost counselling option
For a private company
Clients will generally seek out your services because they are looking to shift gears in their career.
As a private practitioner
You get to choose your target client demographic.
You would likely work for an employer to gain experience and credibility before pursuing an independent path.
You'll Love It If You...
Enjoy working one-on-one with clients
Are a creative problem solver:every client is unique
Are ok with an open-ended workflow: some clients will see you once, others for many sessions
Look For Another Career Path If You...
Prefer to work on your own
Can't stand it if there isn't a clear right or wrong approach
Operate best under specific timelines
Take Action
Do you:
If those points made you feel this excited then a career in career counselling may be right for you!
This Byte has been authored by
Kamelia Valkova
Community Manager at Rumie (and I love nature!)