Before your appointment, feel free to prepare as much or as little as you like – whatever you are comfortable with.
If this is your first time seeing a career counsellor as an adult, welcome. Rest assured; the experience will be quite different from when you were in high school.
The key difference to seeing a career counsellor as an adult is that I am here to work together in a collaborative relationship. Even if it doesn’t feel like it, you’ve already made important decisions about your career, life, and education to get to where you are today. With just a little guidance from me, you'll be able to use your existing decision-making skills to confidently navigate your next steps.
If you’re someone who likes to prepare, here are some suggestions to help you get the most out of your session:
1. Think About Your Goals
Start by thinking about why you booked this appointment. Are you feeling uncertain about your career path, considering a change, or seeking guidance on advancing in your current job? Having a clear idea of what you want to achieve will steer our conversation in a direction that’s most beneficial for you.
2. Reflect on Your Journey
Take a moment to reflect on your career or study journey so far. What accomplishments are you proud of? What challenges have you overcome? Understanding your past experiences not only highlights your strengths but also gives me insight into your background and aspirations.
3. Prepare Questions
If you’re unsure where to start, don’t worry! I’m here to help you jot down a few questions or topics you’d like to discuss. Whether it’s about specific industries, job search strategies, or opportunities for skill development, having questions prepared ensures we cover the essentials and address your concerns.
4. Email Your Resume
If you think it will enhance our discussion, feel free to email me your resume before our session. This will give me a quick overview of your skills and experiences, allowing me to provide tailored advice and recommendations more effectively.
5. Stay Open-Minded
During our session, keep an open mind. As career counsellors, we offer insights and perspectives that you may not have considered. I’ll never tell you what you should do, but if you’re open to exploring new ideas and possibilities, together we can uncover exciting career opportunities you hadn’t previously thought of.
If you’re considering a significant career change, it may take a few sessions to explore all possibilities thoroughly. However, by approaching your first career counselling appointment with a positive mindset and a bit of preparation, you’ll maximise the benefits of our time together. Let’s navigate this journey together—you’ve got this!
Justine (Jay) Warne is a qualified career counsellor, based in Melbourne. She is registered with the Career Development Association Australia (CDAA).
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