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 we have today may prevent overly focusing on the future. Reminding ourselves that we cannot relive the past nor can we be certain of the future is important when trying to find a middle ground. Live for today, because it is a gift – that is why it is called the present. Read more about today.
FOR PRACTITIONERS: Basic Counseling Skills
In order to best understand, listen and help clients, the counselor needs core counseling skills, such as active listening. While building rapport, the counselor also should be aware of nonverbal communication. An overview of the basic skills and a tutorial on how to use effective skills, are helpful when focusing on what is needed first. Read more from Counselling Tutor.
PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS: Ethical Standards
Standards of professional practice are a required commitment. The National Career Development Association (NCDA) updated its Code of Ethics in 2015 and the American Counseling Association's code was updated in 2014. Resources for following the code of ethics in practice are also available on each website.
YOUR LIBRARY: 100 Best Career Development Books
Presumably, every career professional already has read the book, “What Color is Your Parachute?” (Bolles). Which other books are recommended by thought leaders and experts? “Pivot” and “Career Theories and Models at Work” are just two of many that you may want on your library shelf. See the full list and read one (or more) as a present to yourself (which, in turn benefits those you serve).
TOP TEN: Online Tools for the Job Seeker
From career discovery to a strong online presence, tech tools exist to help the job seeker now. Try Resume Genius for a simple method of writing a resume. Use JobHero to keep track of and optimize the job search. View all ten, then focus on using the tools needed today.