A career advisor listens to a customer’s career aspirations and advises them on the education and experience needed to attain that career. If a customer doesn’t know what career they are interested in, the advisor may give the person a career interest test or career aptitude test to help with the discovery process. These advisors often work for colleges and workforce centers.
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How to Become a Career Advisor
Though there is no formal educational requirement to become a career counselor, most employers look for candidates that have a master’s degree in a related such as counseling with a focus on career development. According to O*NET OnLine, over 90% of the career counselors surveyed held a master’s degree.
Master’s degree programs in counseling with a focus on career development will prepare you to access clients’ skills and interests. Coursework may include communication courses, psychology, microcomputer applications, and theory classes. Most degree programs require students to have a period of supervised experience or an internship. Although some employers prefer it, licensure is not required by every state for a career advisor.
Job Description of a Career Advisor
Career advisors have career exploration discussions with clients to narrow down the type of career the individual is interested in. If the client isn’t sure of their career path, they often give career interest tests or career aptitude test to help with the discovery process. They will work to evaluate a client’s background, training, and education in order to help the client develop realistic career goals as well.
These advisors may also teach various classes or workshops such as how to write a resume, prepare for an interview, the basics of networking, and how to search for a job online. Career advisors often work full-time and primarily work during the week. Colleges, job centers, businesses, and government agencies hire career advisors. Their work is usually in an office setting and they are in constant interaction with clients. Because they motivate and guide individuals on a daily basis, they must be good listeners, patience, and empathy.
Career Counselor Video Transcript
Supporting success through the lifespan, school and career counselors help individuals navigate their school years from grade school to graduation, college or training, or throughout their lifelong employment experience. From elementary through high school, school counselors work with students and their families, school staff, and the community to create an environment that promotes academic success and positive social interaction. They help students deal with personal issues that affect their school experience, and provide crisis intervention when needed.
School counselors keep detailed records to meet laws and district policies, and help students with disabilities get accommodations. They also help ensure students take all required classes and plan for college or careers after graduation. Career counselors help clients explore career options and teach them the process of searching for a job. They administer career assessments, teach individuals and groups how to write a résumé, interview for jobs, and resolve workplace issues.
Career counselors work in colleges, non-profit organizations, government employment services, and in private practice. Most school and career counselors work full time; those who work in schools may have summers off. School counselors typically need a master’s degree in school counseling, and a state license or certification. Some states require teaching credentials as well. Career counselor positions often require a master’s degree in counseling with a focus on career development. Some states require licensure.
Article Citations
- Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, School and Career Counselors.
- National Center for O*NET Development. 21-1012.00. O*NET OnLine.
- The career video is in the public domain from the U. S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration.
