How to Get Free Career Counseling?

Answer 1

Are you undecided about your career path? Do you need help finding the right job? If you answered yes to either one of these questions, then you should try career counseling. A career counselor is trained to help job-seekers explore their career options. Fortunately, there are many places that offer this type of service for free. Read on to learn how to get free career counseling services.

Create a Resume

A resume is a summary of a persons qualifications and credentials. You should have a resume available prior to meeting with a career counselor. The career counselor will use your resume to evaluate your background, accomplishments and experience. It is important to include all relevant details about your qualifications on your resume (e.g. education, work experience, license/certification details, skills, special trainings, achievements and professional organizations that you belong to). Dont forget to include your contact information at the top of your resume (full legal name, mailing address, telephone number and e-mail address).

Find a Career Counselor

There are a variety of places that offer career counseling services, such as colleges and universities, employment agencies, vocational rehabilitation centers, churches, and non-profit organizations (e.g. The Salvation Army). Although many schools, agencies and organizations offer free career counseling services, some charge a fee for their services. So, be sure to confirm with each company whether or not their services are free before you schedule an appointment.

Gather the Appropriate Documents

There are a few things that you should take with you when you meet with the career counselor:

• Valid photo identification
• Social Security card
• A current resume
• Photocopy of credentials (license, certification, etc.)
• Photocopy of your high school or college transcript
• Portfolio or samples of your work (if available)
• A list of references (at least three professional references)
• Information about any career assessments that you have previously completed (test results)

All of these resources can be very helpful during the career exploration process. Your counselor can use these types of items to properly guide you on the right career path. In addition, you may be required to complete an application when you meet with the career counselor; so it is a good idea to take these items with you to your appointment. You may need to refer to these documents when you complete your paperwork.

Go to Your Scheduled Appointment

When you meet with the career counselor, be prepared to do a lot of talking. The counselor is going to ask you a variety of questions about your goals and interests to ensure that he or she provides you with the proper guidance. Do not be afraid to open up to your counselor about your career goals. That is the only way that your counselor can truly prepare you for the right career. In addition, you may be asked to complete some career tests during your appointment. Please note that you may have to meet with your counselor several times during the career exploration process.

With the proper career counseling, you can definitely identify the right career choice and find an appropriate job. Although it may take a little time to get started on your career path, do not give up. Good luck!