How can you get the most out of your meeting with an adviser?
Preparation is key.
- Think about your goals for the meeting. This may be exploring different ideas, discussing suitability for certain jobs and skills needed, advice on a specific field or how to go about getting that job. Having goals will make the meeting more productive and efficient.
- Bring specific questions. They are people that you want to ask all those questions that you cannot find answers to. An easy way to do this is to create a questions list and keep adding to it every day.
- Gather all relevant documents. If you have undertaken self-assessments, bring in your results and discuss them with the adviser. Equally if you have any questions about requirements for the job bring a list of your academic qualifications and achievements may be efficient.
- Discuss your concerns. The chances are you will feel confused at times and that is ok. If there are any challenges that you have identified or things that worry you about your choice share this with the adviser and they will be able to offer more insight.
- Tell them of your interests, weaknesses and strengths, the things that bring you joy in life this will help the adviser to match you with different career options.
- Listen There will be lots of extremely useful information that advisers will share so capturing that and analysing it is essential. Feel free to ask questions on the back of the information given and further explore the topic at hand and take notes.
- Ask for specific advice. This may be for a particular sector of work where specific knowledge or skills is required. They have knowledge and information they can access about any industry so feel free to ask any questions.
- Welcome feedback even if this may not be what you want to hear. Sometimes we may want certain jobs but not be suited for them. Things may change as we develop but be honest about your strengths and where these may be better suited.
- Find out about educational or training programs. Some careers may provide an apprenticeship route or other training programs especially if you are considering further education.
- Ask for networking opportunities. These can be job fairs, professional group meet ups, webinars, networking events where you can meet other likeminded people and prospective employers. These are key for career growth and success.
- Consider asking for a follow-up meeting. Lots of information may be shared during the meeting so ensuring that you give yourself time to reflect is essential. Following this you may have some final questions which may prompt a follow-up meeting.
- Take notes throughout and follow-up with thank you message to your adviser for their support and advice given. At the end of the day, you are embarking professional world and courtesy is key.
Some questions for your adviser:
- What job roles align with my interests and skills?
- Can you give some insights about the job market for this career?
- What skills do I need to focus on and how can I do this for my chosen career?
- What are some of prospects for my chosen career?
- Can you provide some resources or contact in this field of work?
Where can you find a career adviser?
The National Career Service provide career adviser service which can be accessed via phone call, email, chat online or post.
If you have not completed a self-assessment, you can find our handy workbook will help you identify your interests, values and strengths and kick start your career journey.
Resources:
Careers advice | National Careers Service