You may need unbiased advice when choosing a career, deciding whether or not to change careers or jobs, re-entering the workforce, job hunting, or recovering from a job loss. Find out how to find and work with a career counselor or other career development professional.
Difficulty: Average
Time Required: na
Here's How:
- Determine whether you need professional help. You might if you're choosing a career, trying to advance in your current career, or have career related issues.
- Find a career development professional who can help you explore career options, can inform you of labor market trends, and can assess your skills, interests, and work related values.
- To find professional help get recommendations, contact your local university, or check the yellow pages under 'Career'.
- Check the person's credentials. The person you meet with should be a Nationally Certified Career Development Professional or a Career Development Facilitator.
- Interview the person before hiring him or her. Ask how he will help you. No one should be able to promise you a better job, more money, etc. Make sure you feel comfortable with that person.
Tips:
- Don't pay someone for career advice unless they have professional credentials.
- Avoid someone who promises you a better career, more money, or a better life. No one can make those kind of guarantees.
- Make sure the person you choose is knowledgable about your field.
