CDA Insights

December is a good month to review the past year, assess and set goals, and... STOP! Don't look back! Just because all the television news shows look back every December 31st, doesn't mean it is a helpful practice. There comes a time to let go of the past and move forward. Being future-focused starts with admitting that while learning occurred in the past, dwelling on history is a heavy weight. Shouldn't you start lifting weights in the new year? ~ Melanie Reinersman, editor@

As opposed to being fulfilled in sleep, career dreams or aspirations may reveal or influence career decisions or journeys. Practitioners need various theories and tools at their fingertips when considering clients' dreams while providing career related services. Yes, it would be interesting to explore the meaning behind a client's nighttime dreams about work, and it may be even more productive to explore career aspirations. ~ Melanie Reinersman, editor@careerdevelopmentallia

Of course the all-important word “LinkedIn” is going to be included somewhere on this page about enhancing the job search. There is no such thing as a successful job search without it. But what else can a job seeker do and what else can a career coach say when faced with trying times and unprecedented challenges? There are always more ways to enhance a job search! ~ Melanie Reinersman, M.A., insights@careerdevelopmentalliance.com Photo by Sheri Hooley on Unsplash FOCUS ON: O

At the end of every year, it is natural to look back and review the past events. Why not similarly review one’s career, when a job ends? Or evaluate a presentation after it is over? Anytime self-reflection occurs, the opportunity for growth increases. If you are not already encouraging this with your clients (or at least modeling it for them), the end of 2018 is an appropriate time to start. ~ Melanie Reinersman, editor@careerdevelopmentalliance.com Photo by Matt Botsford on