Career Coaching 2012 and Beyond
November 15, 2011
Career Coaching and its many derivates have been around in practical terms since the 1500’s, during that period ‘Guilds’ and ‘Livery’ companies (today’s trade associations) were setting the career standards, pace of progression and qualifications within 100’s of professions and trades………this to me was the start of the idea of not just having a job but having a career and managing it in organised way.
Politics, Invention, Social Pressures and Technology have impacted on the art of effective career coaching and its form and effectiveness has changed regularly since
In principle and according to Wikipedia! Career Coaching / Management is:
- Development of overall goals and objectives
- Development of a strategy (a general means to accomplish the selected goals/objectives),
- Development of the specific means (policies, rules, procedures and activities) to implement the strategy, and
- Systematic evaluation of the progress toward the achievement of the selected goals/objectives to modify the strategy, if necessary.
Over the past few years the type of person who uses career coaching services has changed dramatically and the discussion about careers with friends & colleagues is less taboo, for some previously in could be seen as a sign of weakness or desire to leave a business!
Career coaching is no longer only for the high earners, services and results led programs are available for every salary level and discipline.
History always repeats itself so 2012 will be a year of change in career coaching
So, how will it change?
Style of Delivery – there has been a natural technology lean over the last 5 years where the trend to deliver online has increased, I believe this has always given the user a disadvantage as most career deciding & defining moments happen face to face – you will see over the next 12 months consumer demand will rise for face to face career coaching so the training scenario fully matches ‘real life’ situations
Pricing – Online options will always be cheaper and /or free but savvy consumers (no matter how small their budget) will always seek value for money and in the right professional career management environment will be able to see in advance how it will add value to their career, the price of face to face coaching will fall in 2012 – through competitive demand and also the realization of career managers that their services (like many) are not worth to consumers what they used to be.
Social Media – W ill continue to have an impact on how people progress their career but it still won’t help them learn, plan and deliver effective career management activity, during 2012 I see mature career focused people looking more to the traditional networking as a way of getting ahead of the game and senior professionals realizing that social media will help their careers progress and help them deliver business results
Survivors not just Leavers – For most career coaches the last 3 years have been dominated by people leaving businesses not employees looking to progress. This will change in 2012 as ‘survivors’ in businesses seek to gain promotion in their leaner teams and businesses.
Point proven by the ONS data in November 2011 that said “ A 13 year low – The number of people leaving their primary occupation between April and June this year was 674,000, or around 2.4% of the UK workforce, a drop of 42% from the peak of 1.17m in 1998, according to Office for National Statistics (ONS) data.
Tailored Services – Off the shelf programs for most are impersonal and don’t make the consumer feel valued, the career coaching industry has been guilty of this. In 2012 this will change and although brand standards and core programs that deliver results will be the backbone of success. In 2012 the way they are adapted to individual needs will be the defining selling point.
2012 for Career Managers and those seeking Career coaching will define the industry for a number of years to come, if the economy is virtually stagnant, as predicted, innovation will need to win the day.
TCMO can provide you with these services and our straightforward approach has benefited many, we like to be challenged, so please feel free to get in touch with me to see how our services can match up to your 2012 career management expectations
So, you’ve been made redundant; what next? – Take some Career Advice
November 15, 2011
Redundancy is never a pleasant process to go through at any time in your career. Whether it’s voluntary or compulsory, it’s a very unsettling and stressful period. We hear the negative news that goes along with redundancy every day so when you couple this with the constant reports on rising unemployment figures, it is important you know your rights and start to plan for your next career move.
My first piece of advice to give to any individual facing redundancy is to seek career advice on every level. I would suggest this starts with your line manager as you need to know the full process. How much notice have they given you, what will be your hours or work for your remaining time with your employer, do you qualify for any redundancy packages, what about any pensions or benefits and will they provide you with any support in finding your next position? Don’t ever be embarrassed or uncomfortable about asking these questions, you need to be clear on your timescales and income as this will have an impact on every other aspect of your life.
Next step is to seek advice on your financial affairs and this could be with a financial adviser or your partner, family or friend. Take the time to sit down with a blank piece of paper and write down all of your monthly expenses. This should include everything from your mortgage to the cost of a pint down your local pub. Be completely honest and don’t leave a anything out as you need to know the minimum income you will need per month.
In my opinion, the most important advice to seek when facing redundancy is career advice. This will come from everyone in your life but I urge you to shop around and seek professional career advice. The Career Management Organisation is a Scottish based company operating across the UK, who specialise in helping individuals through redundancy and successfully guide them through a journey to success. They take the time to get to know, your current situation and what you’re looking for in your next career move.
They give you all of the advice and support you need throughout your job search and even take care of the hard work we all dread like drafting your new CV and Cover Letter. They understand the pressures both emotionally and financially throughout this period in your life so assign a dedicated team to work with you to secure the short term job to keep income coming in whilst you work with them to achieve the long term career goals. To arrange a free consultation to find out how they can help you.
Redundancy need not be the most difficult period in your life, with the relevant career advice and support you can use this as the opportunity to achieve the future you have always wanted.
Meet us at the HR Network Awards 2011
November 10, 2011
Looking forward to a great night out with the team and 800 HR professionals on 17th November in Glasgow
Check out the latest news and finalists on http://www.hrnetworkjobs.com/
See you there………
Career Coaching For Teenagers
November 7, 2011
If you are looking for good quality advice on career coaching for teenagers read on…. you could be a teenagers yourself looking to get a step ahead of your parents, friends or teachers! Or you may be a forward thinking parent seeking real life advice….
This quick read should enable you to talk about what it is, why do it, where to find it and how to make it a success.
Why seek out Career Coaching?
Whether it’s for you or someone else you have to buy into it before you start.
It will give the ‘base camp’ for flexible ideas for what you can do, when you do it and how you get there, it doesn’t matter if you are 13 or 18 .. a good plan still works.
Career Coaching can be found in schools or colleges and through friends and colleagues, the best advice will always come from an independent source and don’t be shy, seek out professional help, it may cost but you can always discuss your needs with a potential service provider before you commit, remember a small investment now will repay itself many times over throughout your career.
So, what is it?
Career Coaching should be a set of theoretical advice and practical activities that give the user the knowledge and motivation to plan their short and medium term career future
It should be guided using attitude, personality and interests, not just on academic or technical ability. Be realistic and don’t throw in too many social, economic or geographical boundaries… they are enough hurdles out there already.
How can you measure success in career coaching for teenagers?
In many ways short term, you will see their level of motivation rise in the direction of study or hobby this will then give them a more informed view of a direction. Their appetite for working part time or voluntarily will increase as will their communication skills with advisors.
Longer term you will see longevity in roles and quicker promotion in responsibility as well or job title.
To conclude:-
Professional career coaching will have a long term impact on a teenager’s ability to plan ahead and get a great career. In needn’t be along programme of training, short, punchy and fun works and as we mentioned earlier a small investment will get a return.
Talk to us at TCMO and as ever ‘google’ it, we’d like to think our guidance is honest and real life
How to get the best Deal from your Outplacement Company
November 1, 2011
Outplacement support is usually provided as a result of an employee leaving their job through redundancy, compromise agreement or some other agreed parting of the ways. This support is extremely valuable at a time when the employee is somewhat vulnerable, especially when redundancy is the reason for moving on. This support can make the transition to a new job a lot easier and stress free.
But how do you know that you are getting the best deal?
Firstly, talk to your company (HR Dept or Line Manager). If they are providing the support via an external Outplacement Company, they will be able to give you details of the level of support being offered. They will also pay the cost direct to the Outplacement Company. However, don’t immediately accept this support without checking out what other Outplacement Companies are offering in the way of support. It may be that another provider is more suitable to your needs. If so, ask your employer to consider the alternative provider. Ask around and see if any of your friends or colleagues can recommend a provider. Once you identify two or three, visit and discuss your needs with what they can provide. Make sure that the Outplacement Company follows a recognised Code of Conduct such as that of the CIPD. Make sure that the consultant(s) are fully trained and competent. Outplacement support is all about people, not the pleasant offices, technology or glossy brochures. A reputable outplacement company such as The Career Management Organisation Ltd (TCMO), will offer at least two, free no obligation meetings to assess your needs and prepare a personalised proposal. TCMO will also invite you to meet their team before you commit. You must have trust and belief in what they can do for you at this stage in your career transition. Take time to make a considered decision. Compare your precise needs to what is proposed and make sure that the costs, location, time constraints and content meet your requirements. This represents an investment in your career and support from a professional team of career managers can prove invaluable at this point of career transition.
It may be that you will fund the Outplacement Support yourself if your company is unwilling to do so. If so, ask them to process the payment for you in order that you may recover the vat element of the cost either through your final salary or other means.
The best deal in Outplacement Support equates to what you require at this time of Career Transition. Compare two or thee companies before deciding and if your preference is not the one put forward by your company, ask them to consider the alternative. It is essential that you capitalise on this opportunity if support is offered by your employer. It may lead to a new challenge, a change of career direction, setting up your own business but also an opportunity to look at your work / life balance.
Industry statistics suggest that effective Outplacement support, such as that provided by TCMO, is proven to reduce the time it takes to settle into a new position by 60%. That must rank as the best deal in Outplacement support! Call 0800 009 3141 to find out.
TCMO Career Services – Frequently Asked Questions
November 1, 2011
Please feel free to contact us if there are any areas we havent covered below…
What exactly is Career Management?
Career management is for individuals who are looking to take ownership of their career. Those who go down the route of Career Management typically find work or their new career opportunity up to twice as fast as those who have no such guidance. Our professional team of expert consultants will work with you to gain:
- A clear sense of the skills and experience that you have to offer.
- A focus on your options and vision for the future – short, medium and long term.
- An accurate assessment of the employment opportunities in your chosen markets.
- The support of a team which works with you to enhance a range of self-marketing skills: improving your interview technique, CV, application forms and covering letters.
- Help with approaching head-hunters / search companies, agencies, developing existing contacts and adding new connections.
- Important research EG - to help prepare for interviews, salary negotiations etc.
- Throughout the duration of your career we will provide an on-going support network through a designated member of the TCMO team.
How do I Arrange a Free Career Consultation Online?
Call our Client Development Co-ordinator on 0131 201 0182 or email giles@tcmo.co.uk
What do the initial meetings with TCMO involve?
One of our Career Consultants will give you a free Career Assessment identifying your future objectives and discussing your career history to date. The meeting will be relaxed, informal, allowing you to find out about our career services. From there you will be invited to complete our Career Choices Evaluation which will then enable us to present you with a proposal on what TCMO services would be most relevant and effective for you?
Are the Initial Consultations really free?
Yes, it really is a free consultation meeting. The only cost is your time to come and speak with us.
Naturally we provide a professional service and you will decide if our short, medium or long term career services will add value to your career. Our fees vary to suit all budgets and all career levels
How long do the meeting last?
Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.
What do I need to bring to the meeting / assessment?
If you have an updated copy of your CV please feel free to bring this along to the meeting. However, one of the the TCMO development team will already have a copy of your CV.
I received your letter, what is the Life Time Guarantee?
An investment from start to finish of your career, backed up with on-going support from the TCMO team – Essentially an insurance policy for the rest of your Career.
Can I get any testimonials or recommendations?
Please follow the links for our testimonials, http://www.tcmo.co.uk/folio/testimonials and recommendations, http://www.linkedin.com/in/tcmogroup.
You will also be invited to talk directly to existing clients to get an overview of how we have matched their expectations
Why choose TCMO?
The Directors and managers at TCMO have over 75-years’ experience in the career management/outplacement/recruitments sectors.
Rob Moore has held Senior Management roles within the Recruitment & Retention, Careers, FMCG & Hospitality industries for over 15 years.
With over 30 years’ experience Raymond Currie has worked extensively throughout the UK with Blue Chip companies at senior management level in Sales, Business Development, Personnel & Training and in particular, Career Management.
Sandy Cullen has 15 years+ experience in outplacement and career management consultancy. He also has expertise in financial recruitment, international law firms and investment banks throughout the UK and overseas.
Paul Wilson has been involved in the Recruitment, Training & FMCG industries for over 30 years
All our Career Managers are employed to deliver our bespoke services and have proven experience as Career Transition Consultants (CTC’s).. They all have flexible coaching skills that enable them to provide results driven 1-2-1 guidance. In addition many have specialist skills including NLP, Myers Briggs, and other Psychometrics, new business start ups and HR / Employment law
I have been made redundant, how can TCMO help?
Being made redundant can be one of the most stressful and difficult periods of your life. TCMO offer a personal, caring and supportive framework in which to help you through this period of career transition.
However, we prefer to focus on the positive aspect, this could open up new opportunities that you might not have even considered, utilising your assets, marketable and transferable skills. With our tailor made professional services detailed inour Career Management proposal we will strive for you to achieve the Career objectives that you want.
What is the TCMO Client Charter?
Your TCMO Career Manager
- We will appoint one of our highly trained Career Managers / Outplacement Consultants with the sole aim of helping you reach your career goal
- Your Career Manager / Outplacement Consultant will provide you with coaching support and will share their expertise and advice across all areas planned within your Career Management or Outplacement Programme
TCMO Client Services
- Our Client Services Co-ordinator will provide ongoing proactive job search support, recruiter & HR decision maker research, focused job-board advice and online & offline networking opportunities
- We will be clear, open and timely in providing you with research to help you accelerate your job search and open up potential new avenues
- Your Project Manager will take a ‘helicopter view’ of your Career Management / Outplacement journey and ensure that you are maximising your opportunities and activities with the support of the team
- Your Project manager will also communicate with you during key milestones of the process and provide specific expertise and advice as and when required
Matching Your Expectations
- At all times we will clearly communicate the TCMO journey and the recommend routes you should follow to achieve your goals. This may be in the form of action plans, levels of activity for you to complete and research information we require to boost your activity. Regular recorded reviews of progress will need your input weekly
- Career Management requires you to play a very proactive role as a client and we’ll be here to encourage and support you and provide expert advice
Career Lifetime Guarantees
- TCMO guarantee to deliver this full programme within agreed timescales and objectives
- TCMO guarantee to support your career plan until your objective is met and provide on-going advice as your career develops
- TCMO guarantee to provide an annual career review meeting for the duration of your working life
- TCMO guarantee to make no additional charges for the above services
What are the 10 essential tips to avoid career frustration?
http://www.tcmo.co.uk/folio/10-essential-tips-to-avoid-career-frustration
