CDA Insights

While the real estate field focuses on location, location, location, the rest of the world professes education, education, education. When education is viewed in a broad sense, it supports the value of lifelong learning. When education is limited to the once-popular, narrow sense of always obtaining a four-year college degree, then people suffer. Career professionals not only need to be aware of the different learning modalities, but can aim to assist clients in being open-mi

Skills pays the bills. During the covid-19 shut-down, home improvement projects surged as people needed spaces to work and play at home. This spurred the focus on the skilled trades, as deck-builders, landscapers, wood-workers, plumbers and other tradespersons were called on more than ever. While there may still be a stigma for the family that does not send all their children to a four-year college, there are many reasons to pursue a trade instead. Lower debt and higher earni

It is easy to generate questions surrounding the challenges faced by executives today. For example, are “teamwork” and “executives” an oxymoron? Do “data analysis” and “executive creativity” exist in the same organization? When does “caring for the employee's well-being” conflict with “not tolerating” non-performers? The only accurate answer to so many questions may be that one individual does not have all the answers. The executive that seeks help from career development pro

Because life isn't always rosy, we may need to take time to look at what is interfering with the chance of a positive outcome to a career decision, change, or aspiration. Career practitioners have said it is better to move toward something than run away from something, and this applies to case of dysfunctional thoughts. Facing them, examining their source, and implementing interventions may remove the hindrance. Sure, you'd rather stop and smell the roses. Just remember that

No one would argue that 2020 has been a year of disruptions. Paychecks, lifestyles, and even the weather have seen such extreme changes as to only be able to use a new word to describe how we are living now. But what if that word has a positive spin on it? What if our description evokes a sense of empowerment over the change? That would be inspirational! Imagine the change in career development in 2021 and forward with a word that is energizing, informing and empowering. This

Aiming to earn trust from a client, employer, or co-worker should begin with respect. Etiquette is a sure way to demonstrate respect, for both others and self. Counselors who model proper etiquette are effectively saying to the client, “you can do this.” No one is too old for a reminder of the classic basic manners or an introduction to the 21st century etiquette (think social media). All mothers (and grandmothers) would be proud! ~ Melanie Reinersman, M.A., insights@careerde

Geography. It is my weak subject. (You remember those blue pie pieces on the Trivial Pursuit board – well, I was usually missing those!) I am now purposely trying to learn more about world geography through practicing on quiz apps, watching Jeopardy, talking to world travelers, and traveling. I know I will never be an expert in world geography (does Jeopardy allow “phone a friend”?), but I also know I will always have something to learn. What do you still want to learn and ho

Generally, anyone born after 1995 through the mid-2000s is considered a member of Generation Z. Also referred to as Post-Millenials, they are the focus of heavy research as employers, marketers and service providers are trying to grasp the unique characteristics of this group that is quickly replacing the baby boomers in the work world. Whether you are doing the hiring, training, supervising, coaching or counseling of someone in this generation, the objective is clear: learn

While there is no such thing as the “best” or “right” or even “one” career for anyone, sometimes it helps to have a starting point for discussions about career choice. Whether these “best” options are the result of brainstorming or assessments, counselors and clients can generate valuable discussions around these points. ~ Melanie Reinersman, editor@careerdevelopmentalliance.com Photo by Jon Tyson on Unsplash FOCUS ON: Best Jobs for Americans According to Glassdoor, Data Sci