Everyone knows how a career can be important in one’s life. Time, efforts, and investments we bring to our career seem a faithful reflection of the life goals we had set for ourselves. However, sometimes situations arise where we find ourselves in a dead-end, where we aren’t sure anymore of the right path to follow or of the achievement of our goals. What can we do to avoid being overwhelmed by doubt and confusion when this happens?
It isn’t rare to see this phenomenon happen whenever someone starts searching for a new job. The same phenomenon can also occur as we simply pursue our career path without wanting or even considering a career change. It’s only normal for most of us to pursue a non-linear path in our career, a path which undergoes transformations throughout our active life in the labour market. Sometimes, the path simply comes to a stop, whether it be by our own will or by that of another, whether it be abruptly or intermittently, whether it be to start back afresh or not, it is always destabilizing to face this situation alone and without resources. Hence, few people give sustained attention to their career only allowing this mostly when new goals appear. What then about the other moments? Failing attention, these may dwindle or invade us which isn’t any better. Enters then the employment counselor.
The employment counselor is someone specialized in the development of people’s employability requesting his/her help. Some employment counselors work in Government offices such as those of Service Québec, others can be found in community organizations such as employment services providers. These counselors share a common goal in helping and assisting those who asked for their help to achieve or improve self-realisation through their career. One of the core principles is: any individual who is in harmony with his/her own interests, values, and competencies and who finds the same with an employer or a given position will be likely fulfilled.
It happens sometimes that fulfillment isn’t there anymore or remains incomplete. The employment counselor can help you then surmount these obstacles because he/she has the required problem-solving competencies for such situations, moreover, has the necessary backdrop to consider all possible solutions since he/she isn’t emotionally involved. We all know that family and friends are there to help and support you, excluding them isn’t the point here, quite the opposite, getting the most out of every person involved including the employment counselor is fundamental. To meet with an employment counselor, even if you are not sure to need one, or for more information on this topic, please contact our employment services provider center at (514) 362-7340, Ext. 221. We will surely be able to help you further your career.
By André Rousseau, CHRP
Executive Director.