More than ever, it is vital that students, job-seekers and those currently employed take active, ongoing responsibility for their career development.
In an environment of endless information, there is certainly no shortage of career advice. A simple online search will reveal many thousands of sites that claim to offer expertise on managing your career, or dictate a set of rules that ‘guarantee’ success. These often include templates, scripts, ‘must-dos’ and assessments that lack any validity or scope for individual interaction – and which may well cost you money, but deliver no return on that investment.
Although online activity may be useful for general tips and broad-based advice, contemporary research has concluded time and again that career services are most effective when delivered by a qualified professional in an appropriately structured setting. Despite this, millions of Australians have never had the opportunity for a real conversation about their career progress, plans and aspirations.
It is time for this to change. Your career is arguably your number one asset and it influences many other aspects of your life. It deserves the same care and attention as your health and finances. As you would in these areas, you should seek support from highly trained specialists.
Comprehending and navigating an unpredictable, changing labour market requires relevant and expert career guidance. Having a sound understanding of the local and wider employment markets, regularly thinking about your skills and achievements, and being prepared for the right opportunity when it arises are all vital aspects of sound career management.
Career Development Association Australia (CDAA) practitioners have the knowledge, experience and commitment you need on your journey.
Not all people or businesses offering career services are the same, and it can be hard for people to know the difference between an empty claim and a qualified professional who provides guidance, insight and practical knowledge.
One key factor is membership of the CDAA. Our members are governed by ethical standards, require substantiated, industry-related qualifications, and are obliged to complete a minimum number of professional development hours every year.
CDAA accreditation is a standard you can trust.
CDAA member practitioners provide advice and assistance across all aspects of career development, and can help you to:
- Gain a greater understanding of your marketable and transferable strengths, experience and attributes.
- Prepare and review job-related documents such as résumés, social media profiles and selection criteria responses.
- Identify your career interests, values and drivers, as well as associated learning and employment options/pathways.
- Understand, appreciate and confidently tell your unique story.
- Enhance your knowledge of the worlds of education and work – and the linkages between them.
- Build and practice your interview, presentation and interpersonal communication skills.
- Recognise the importance of lifelong learning.
- Conduct a career health check or stocktake.
- Develop greater career resilience and agility during a period when this will be a prerequisite for success.
Find your career ally
The best career practitioners work as your partner; sometimes very briefly and sometimes over an extended period. Their focus is on helping you clarify and determine the right direction through support, advice, resources and quality assurance – and by being prepared to challenge assumptions. Career support is a direct investment in your own future – one that can pay real dividends over your working life.
Expect the highest level of expertise, formal training and client care
Demand the best for your career
Work with a CDAA accredited career specialist
What now?
- Take some time to reflect on where you are in your career journey.
- Prepare a list of questions and issues you’d like to discuss or learn more about.
- Commit to action, so you get the greatest possible benefit out of the relationship