Many people don’t know the answer to a common question such as “What do you want to do with your life?” This is where the expertise of a career development specialist can come in handy.

A career in demand

Career development specialist (CDS) Kerry Dawkins explains that there’s a great need for career development services, as the workplace has become so specialised and competitive. “Many people are unhappy in their jobs and this just doesn’t seem right. This inspired me to get into this field,” Kerry says.

Career choices affect every aspect of a person’s life and shouldn’t be made in haste. “Your career will affect your self-esteem, income, lifestyle, health and relationships,” she says.

She says that one of the most exciting aspects of the working world today is that people can apply their skills and talents in many ways. Sometimes, all they need is a bit of encouragement. “The best thing about my job is when I can help someone see what they can be, and then start moving towards it,” she says.

The job explained

CDS’s provide career guidance for people of all ages: from school children who don’t know what career path to follow, to young adults and graduates who are unsure about how to move forward in their careers. Adults who are already working might want to achieve more at work, or are looking for a new challenge.

CDS’s also help people make decisions about midway career changes. “These days, people don’t always choose one career and stick with it throughout their whole life,” she says.

A CDS must always be informed of changes in careers and the job market. Kerry enjoys the challenge of a varied and dynamic work environment. Usually, a workday will be very similar to that

A CDS must be enthusiastic about their work. “It’s my job to understand a person for who they are. I believe this is my greatest skill,” Kerry says. You must be comfortable with voicing your opinion and assess each client’s situation objectively. You can’t be judgemental and you must be respectful. Another valuable skill is the ability to network.

Her job can be difficult because careers are a very sensitive issue. “There’s a certain intensity about careers. It’s a very important thing in a person’s life and clients who’re making these decisions can be stressed,” she says.

Don’t take criticism personally and be wary of getting personally involved in every case.

“Give the best advice you can, but there is no guarantee of what the job market, an individual or company will decide to do,” she explains.

Getting there

Kerry’s entry into the field is somewhat unconventional, but it has helped her to understand the practical side of career development very well. She has a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree, with a special focus on human resources management and has many years of experience in the business market. She says many people in career development have a background in psychology or psychometrics.

Graduates should first gain experience before working in career development. You need a strong contact base, knowledge of universities and the courses they present, contacts in the recruitment industry and a good understanding of the job market.

Working as a CDS is an inspirational job and often you are the catalyst to help someone dream again. “Many people don’t even know what they want to be and unless you have a dream, you will never achieve it,” she says.

By Wilma den Hartigh