Working with clients at a variety of stages in their careers has confirmed my belief that accurate, objective self-knowledge is one of the best existing career development tools.

The process of finding and identifying basic motivators and restraints allows the individual to grow in appreciation of her or his own strengths, and to see perceived weaknesses as areas to avoid, or to develop new skills or more productive coping mechanisms. It allows the individual to take control of her or his own life and career.

In this collaboration, which can be arduous as well as rewarding, I act as consultant, counselor, coach, mentor, cheerleader and friend. Each client’s situation is different, but the basic structure of the process includes the following elements:

• Assessment: Developing ideas and options
• Identifying attitudes, values, beliefs, preferences, potential and conflicts
• Decision-making
• Research and planning
• Job search strategies and
• Inevitably, addressing personal and family concerns.

As a result, the interaction between client and counsellor – the give and take – in the exploration of these elements allows for an honest and thorough examination, yielding the desired result: The action plan.