Who's an Expert?
There are many websites and individuals that offer fee-based expert career advising and services. When utilizing these it's important to consider who is an expert and how they are qualified to help you. Some are credentialed professional career counselors or resume writers. Others are not.
After checking out some of these sites, I wonder about the level of expertise provided for what can be large fees. Is someone a career expert just because they went to an Ivy League college or worked at a Fortune 500 company or because they consider themselves an expert at resume and cover letter writing because they have applied for a lot of jobs? They may have a top-notch education and real world experience, but that doesn't mean they are necessarily qualified to provide career advising, counseling, coaching or resume services. That's why it is important to carefully evaluate the services and providers you choose prior to signing on to get career assistance.
Choosing an E-Advisor
How do you choose an e-advisor with the educational background and experience to help with your job search or career transitions? How do know you the person who is offering expert advice is qualified to help you? How do you decide whether the assistance provided is worth the fees, which could be hundreds of dollars an hour?
When choosing a career advice provider it's important to be able to check out the credentials of your counselor or coach. I've seen some career services that offer expert career advice, but only list the first name of the counselor. That's a concern because when you are paying for advice it's important to be able to research the advisor to ensure they are qualified to help you with career advice, resume writing, or other career related assistance.
The National Board for Certified Counselors directory of counselors lists counselors by first and last name with their accreditations and contact information. The Center for Credentialing and Education lists counselors the same way, as does the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches.
Before You Search for a Coach
Before you start a search for a career coach, counselor or other career expert, review the National Career Development Association Guidelines for Selecting a Career Counselor, keeping in mind that the career expert you select should be qualified and should provide you with information on fees and services. For example, the Guidelines include the following:
You may ask a career professional for a detailed explanation of services including the fees they charge. You should work with a professional who will permit you to select which services to use. You may also ask for their credentials (including a copy of their diploma and licensure certificate) and a copy of their ethical guidelines.
Where to Find a Career Counselor
Don't rely on a Google search to find a professional who can help you. Consult the National Career Development Association directory or other organizations that certify career professionals to locate a qualified career coach. If you're a college student or alumnus check with your career office to see if they can provide career counseling or if they can refer you to a career counselor or coach.
Online Career Counselors
When you aren't able to meet with a career counselor in-person, it's worth considering a Distance Credentialed Counselor(DCC) who specialize in counseling through individual appointments on the phone and online. Distance Credentialed Counselors have met the established requirements and adhere to the NBCC Code of Ethics and the Ethical Requirements for The Practice of Internet Counseling so they not only have career-related expertise, but they know how to help clients long distance.
What To Look for When Selecting a Career Expert
Before you sign on with an advisor, take the time to check the person out. It only takes a few minutes to do a quick background check. Here's how:
- Check LinkedIn. Check the advisor's LinkedIn profile. Does it list credentials? If not, ask about their education, continuing educations, and credentials.
- Check Certifications and Accredidations. Check the relevant directory to see if they are listed. For example, National Career Development Association has an online directory of certified counselors. Google the certifications they give you to find the credentialing organization and then check the directory to see if they are listed.
- Ask For References. Ask for a list of clients the person has helped. Email or call the clients to see if they were satisfied with the services provided.
- Ask to See Work Samples. If you're seeking resume and cover letter writing help, ask for samples so you can review them.
- Get an Itemized List. Ask what is included in the fees and what you can expect to accomplish with the coach's help.
If you're not completely satisfied with the information you discover, move on. There are many counselors out there and it's important to find a qualified professional that you feel comfortable working with. The best way to achieve your career goals is to take the time upfront to research your options and to select a coach that can provide the assistance you need.
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