Each state has its own certification requirements, but generally those seeking job opportunities in this specialized sector will most likely be required to have a Bachelors of Science degree in business management. Job candidates seeking to make their niche in career counseling can verify their home state's requirements by contacting the state licensing board.
Career counselors are those who work with clients to help identify the best paths one should take in their career. They often administer specific tests to garner the strengths and weaknesses of their clients and sometimes administer IQ tests or other psychological tests, such as the MMPI for use in determining what's best for their clients. The employment opportunities in this specialty are expected to increase at faster rates than other specialties due to the current economic crisis and the number of layoffs that are forcing many to reconsider other job options. To be able to provide the best advice for a clientele, counselors must remain on top of the changing environment in the collective business world. Attending workshops and annual licensing renewals are a few ways to remain current.
Qualifications that any job seeker must possess are a sincere desire to help others, patience and a high energy level. These roles can sometimes be stressful, so it's important to be able to recognize these stresses in oneself and act accordingly. They must also adhere to a standard code of conduct and ethics. Career counselors can be found in both the private and government sectors.
Career counselors might find themselves helping clients deal with frustration in the work place, conflict resolution, providing sexual harassment awareness and ensuring these clients are prepared for effectively dealing with layoffs, company closings and other job related issues. They also provide assistance in compiling an effective and accurate resume and will sometimes provide computer training.
More recently, career counselors have helped their clients build solid and effective networks that have become necessary in the business world. They provide guidance on how to remain aware of changes in the air and how to recognize when their employers are in financial trouble.
Career counseling is a rewarding job which offers many benefits, and nearly all in these careers say they're extremely pleased with their choices and feel as though they're making solid contributions. The work environment is usually excellent and these jobs are ideal for those who thrive when working one on one.
Career counselors don't enjoy the higher salaries of their peers, such as marriage or drug and alcohol counselors; however the room for rapid advancement is broad and this is one specialty within the counseling field that will grow at a faster pace. Some companies offer starting salaries of around $25,000 but with contracts, counselors often enjoy faster increases. Further, benefits packages are often generous and offset some of the lower starting salaries.
Regardless of whether a career counselor chooses the private or government sector, a counselor shoulders a huge responsibility to his clients. He must recognize any hidden or undeveloped talents a client may possess and he must be assertive enough to dissuade one from making, or at least to advise a client not to make a less than ideal career decision.
