For school leavers, the transition from high school to the next chapter of their lives is exciting but also overwhelming. The myriad of choices can leave many feeling paralysed or uncertain. This is where career counselling and coaching can make all the difference.
1. Clarity in a World of Options
The range of career pathways available today is broader than ever. While this is empowering, it also creates confusion. Career counselling helps school leavers identify their interests, values, and strengths, aligning them with opportunities they may not have considered. For example, many students believe university is the only path to success, yet vocational education and training (VET) programs or apprenticeships might better suit their goals.
2. Navigating the Complexity of the Workforce
The workplace is evolving rapidly due to technology, globalisation, and shifting industry demands. School leavers often lack the experience to understand how to position themselves in this ever-changing environment. Career coaching bridges this gap, offering tailored advice on emerging job markets, required skills, and the importance of adaptability.
3. Building Confidence and Decision-Making Skills
The pressure to make "the right decision" can create angst. Career counselling empowers young people to see this transition as a journey, not a final destination. Through structured guidance, they can build the confidence to explore, experiment, and pivot as needed. Decision-making frameworks like Holland’s Career Typology or even strengths-based coaching can foster a sense of ownership over their career path.
4. Linking Career to Mental Well-Being
Uncertainty about the future can lead to stress and anxiety for school leavers. Career counselling offers a sense of direction, reducing the mental burden of decision-making. A supported transition from school to work or further education can significantly enhance a young person's sense of purpose and well-being.
5. Tailored Support for Diverse Pathways
Career coaching acknowledges diverse needs, whether it’s guiding students with disabilities, supporting those entering non-traditional pathways, or encouraging young women to consider a trade. Personalised coaching ensures that every school leaver feels seen, supported, and capable of thriving.
6. Preparing for Lifelong Career Development
Career counselling equips young people with skills that go beyond their first job or course selection. It lays the foundation for lifelong learning and career adaptability.
As professionals, educators, and employers, we must champion accessible career counselling and coaching for school leavers. After all, when we help them take the first step in their careers, we’re not just shaping their future, we’re building a stronger, more innovative workforce for tomorrow.
Article written by Sally Healey, Co-Founder and Director of Career Development Centre/Mentally Well Workplaces, Brisbane, Published on LinkedIn 18 Nov 2024
