CDA Insights

Feb 21
3 min

A Hybrid Work Model: Benefits and Challenges When Working Differently

Individuals and companies are benefiting from the massive transition occurring in work models. Study after study in the past two years supports the positive effects of a hybrid or remote work model in the areas of productivity, job satisfaction, talent retention, mental health, economy and even the environment. Of course, there are two sides to everything – many beautiful flowers have thorns. Whatever the reason for the desire for a different model, now that we've seen it, we

Jan 18, 2021
2 min

Growth and Opportunity: Which Comes First?

What do people think of when they hear the word “opportunity”? Maybe they wonder how to create... or take advantage of... or seek... or even turn down an opportunity? Others hear the word “growth” and think of challenges... spurts... growing pains... or even developmental stages. Perhaps the bigger question is like the chicken and the egg: which comes first? Or even more significant: is one possible without the other? ~ Melanie Reinersman, M.A., insights@careerdevelopmentall

Dec 21, 2020
2 min

The Present: Focusing on What Is Needed Right Now

No one wants to spend the last few days of 2020 looking back at a year that was fraught with fear, change and challenges. Looking to 2021 may not be better because the future is too uncertain. Let's just focus on the present! Do you have what you need right now to be effective at serving your clients and taking care of yourself? ~ Melanie Reinersman, M.A., insights@careerdevelopmentalliance.com Photo by freestocks on Unsplash FOCUS ON: Today and Only Today Appreciating what w

Oct 19, 2020
2 min

Disrupt: An Energizing, Informing and Empowering Response to 2020

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

Apr 20, 2020
3 min

Fear Zone vs Growth Zone: Facing and Overcoming Challenges Fuels Development

The rapid changes in the world over the past several weeks have resulted in the complete upheaval of work and home life. Workers have experienced an unprecedented overhaul of methodologies, reduced stability and an abundance of unknowns. Naturally fear increases under these circumstances. Yet, as history has shown us, if we learn from facing new challenges, we can overcome fear and move forward. The aim of Career Development Alliance’sCDA Insights, as always, is to support th

Mar 16, 2020
2 min

Virtual Business: No Doors, No Walls, No Problem

Who sets up shop on Main Street in the 21st Century? Can organizations operate without a physical door to walk through? The ability to run a business virtually is easier than ever (thanks to technological options), and yet requires unique adaptations. Constant connections are easy, even if creating deep connections are not. Knowing what you do is basic, however most people miss the step of figuring out why you do it. If you take some thoughtful steps (not necessarily through

Sep 16, 2019
2 min

The Gig Economy: Still Learning What a Gig Really Is

Employment status, contractor title, legislation, and more terms need to be (re)learned in order to understand the gig economy. Previously, the worker was free to define a gig as anything other than a 9-to-5, regular 40 hour work week, with single employer. On demand services increased the need for gig workers, as consumers enjoyed convenience and unique delivery methods. Independent contractors may be the winners as regulations increase costs to employers, including wage hik

May 20, 2019
2 min

Etiquette: Coaching, Searching, Working While Minding Your P’s and Q’s

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

Sep 17, 2018
2 min

Improvement: Increasing the Service Provider’s Abilities

Counselors and Coaches: are you increasing your skills so as to be a good model for your clients? Are you mindful of your weaknesses so you can improve your services? Does your calendar look like you are stuck in past routines or focused on the future? Improvement is not a dirty word, if you accept the fact that no one is perfect. Don’t let your services become stagnant – schedule time for improving your mindset, abilities, services… and watch the ripple effect take place in

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