The Importance of Career Counseling

Answer 1

Do you need help with your career goals? If so, you are definitely not alone. Many people find it a challenge choosing the right career and finding the “perfect” job. Whether you need help deciding on a college major, or need assistance with your job search, a career counselor can definitely help you select the proper career path to follow. Read on to learn how a career counselor can help you achieve your goals.

Locate a Career Counseling Center

Career counselors work in a variety of settings, such as colleges and universities, vocational centers and state employment agencies. Quite often, these types of institutions and businesses provide free career counseling services to students, job seekers and to those individuals who want to make a career change. Simply contact educational institutions or employment agencies in your area to schedule an appointment with a career counselor.

Career Exploration

Whenever you meet with a career counselor, he or she will ask you questions about your skills, interests and work experience. It is important to be honest with the career counselor about your goals, abilities, strengths and weaknesses. Be sure to take a current copy of your resume with you to your meeting, along with any other material that may be helpful (e.g. portfolio, college transcripts, and a copy of any licenses or certifications you possess). The career counselor will review your background, experiences, and accomplishments and help you explore your career options.

Career Testing

If you haven’t chosen a career path, then the counselor may ask you to complete a few career assessments. A career assessment is a tool that many counselors use to help identify possible career choices for individuals. A career assessment is not a pass or fail test; it merely provides the counselor with information about your interests, skills and/or personality type. A few of the popular career tests include the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), the Strong Interest Inventory, The Career Key and the Campbell Interest and Skill Inventory. Many career tests are available online, so you may be required to take the assessment(s) on a computer in the counseling center. Depending on the type of assessment(s) you take and the depth of each test, the counselor may or may not go over your test results with you on the same day. More than likely, you will need to meet with your career counselor again to receive your career test results.

Suggestions

Take time to research your career options before you actually choose a career and/or apply for jobs. Your career counselor can provide you with a list of resources to help you with your research. Be sure to let your counselor know if you have any questions or concerns about making a career choice. Please note that although your career counselor can assist you with the career exploration process, you are ultimately responsible for choosing your own career path.