Chapter 18

CHAPTER 18: TRENDS AND ISSUES: LOOKING AHEAD

I wonder how much the world of work will change in our culture over the next few years. When reading Brown’s (2012) projection that alternative work patterns such as telecommuting and job sharing will continue to emerge, I feel hopeful – hopeful for our culture overall. I often think we spend too much time working, even an unhealthy amount of time. I wonder if these alternative patterns offer some opportunity for more balance. Brown (2012) makes reference to women career needs differing from men by virtue of sheer biology. I wonder if careers that allow for job sharing and telecommuting are more appealing to some women.

Regarding career counselors, I hope that the field becomes specialized. I’ve talked a good in these blogs about the similarities between career counseling and mental health counseling. The fact remains that I chuckled to myself when Brown (2012) wrote that most counselors receive only one career development course during their training. Yep. I’m in mine right now. I do not feel competent to provide career counseling anymore than I would hypnotizing someone after taking just one course. I don’t think I would hurt anyone. But it definitely would not be an optimal situation.

Questions –

1.     Free online info versus commercially produced materials – hmmm.

·      It makes sense to me that the government will continue providing on-line resources. It makes sense to me that print materials will decline. My daughter’s school doesn’t send home print materials anymore. The send online newsletters and email blasts.

·      Perhaps commercially produced materials will be promoted more by headhunters and recruiters versus career counselors.

2.     Virtual Interviews –

·      I hope not. I think technology is improving – Facetime seems better to me that Skype. I really value non-verbal communication. I think that can be a huge factor in an interview. Something seems missing in virtual interviews.

·      On the flip side, if one is engaged in a global interview process, it might be a useful tool in initial interview. Then both the company and the interviewee can ascertain if a second in-person interview is indicated.

3.     Approach to career counseling –

·      Given what Brown (2012) wrote about the direction of theory research, I think more time will be invested in the counseling process. Especially given the current climate of the job market that might require a complete transformation of skills. Clients may increasingly report personal or emotional issues connected to career. These issues will need resolved for future job and personal wellbeing.

4.     Career development programs –

·      Brown’s (2012) comment about career development taking a back seat to overall changes in education seems reasonable to me. I think it would be a positive thing for our society for career development programs to increase and be available on all levels. However, people do not seem to be in the mood to spend any money, and it seems to me that would be required.

Reference:

Brown, D. (2012). Career information, career counseling, and career development (10^th ed.). New York: Pearson Education, Inc.