9 Reasons why people avoid going to Career Counsellor and what they miss..

 

While the  education level in our country has improved a lot over the last few decades, we still see people being ignorant or biased when it comes to  making a rational and appropriate career choice for themselves or for their children.  

We as a community love to play safe and  ride the wave or trends in society . Career still  means a good and stable and most importantly immediate  job after degree  to a larger section of the society. 

Quite often career decisions are made looking at what is perceived as good generally in the society in the prevailing time. Just like computer science - AI is in trend currently . 

Sometimes it's the example of some relative or friend that is considered to be attractive. and sometimes its just a choice made randomly out of some immediate interest or  pressure. 

Majority of people land  up in a wrong career only to realize it too late and for many, the career gets limited to just  one or different types of jobs . Happiness Joy and satisfaction become words limited to dictionary and hence no wonder,  ailments like stress, emotional turbulence, and physical ailments have become common phenomena. 

This can be easily avoided if the person takes time to understand the rationality of  career selection with the help of a professional. However, this is easier said than done. 

In this article we will take a look at 9 most common reasons  why people ignore seeking professional help while making a career choice. We will also see the realities against each of the reason 

1. Lack of Awareness: Many students and parents may not be aware of the benefits and value of career counseling. They might not fully understand how it can contribute to informed decision-making and long-term career satisfaction.

Reality: Career counseling/coaching provides valuable insights into various career options, market trends, and future prospects. It helps individuals make informed decisions, identify their strengths and interests, and align them with suitable career paths.

2. Perception of Limited Scope: Some individuals believe that career counseling is only useful for those who are confused or unsure about their career choices. They may assume that if they have already decided on a career path, counseling is unnecessary.

Reality: Career counseling/coaching is beneficial regardless of whether a career choice has already been made. It helps individuals gain clarity, validate their decisions, and explore opportunities for growth and advancement within their chosen field.

3. External Pressure: Parents, relatives, or society often exert significant influence on students' career decisions. They may believe that their opinions and advice are sufficient, leading them to overlook the importance of professional career guidance.

Reality: Professional career guidance offers an unbiased perspective, taking into account an individual's unique qualities and aspirations. It helps individuals navigate external influences and make decisions that align with their own interests and values, promoting long-term career satisfaction.

4. Cultural Factors: In India, certain cultural beliefs emphasize traditional career paths, such as medicine, engineering, or government jobs. Deviating from these paths may be met with resistance or scepticism, causing individuals to dismiss the need for career counseling.

Reality:  Career counseling/coaching embraces diversity and helps individuals explore various career options beyond traditional paths. It encourages individuals to pursue their passions, discover new possibilities, and create fulfilling careers that align with their talents and interests.

5. Cost Concerns: Some individuals perceive career counseling as an additional expense and may hesitate to invest in it, especially if they believe they have already made a decision or can gather information themselves.

Reality: While there may be a cost associated with career counseling/coaching, it is an investment in one's future. Professional guidance can help individuals make well-informed decisions, saving them from potential mistakes, career transitions, and wasted time and resources in the long run.

6. Limited Availability: Access to quality career counseling services can be limited, particularly in smaller towns or rural areas. Students and parents may not have easy access to professional career coaches, leading them to believe it is not essential.

Reality:  With advancements in technology, online career counseling/coaching platforms and resources have become more accessible. Additionally, universities, educational institutions, and government initiatives are increasingly offering career guidance services, making it easier for students and parents to access professional support.

7. Fear of Influence: Some individuals may fear that career counselors will impose their own preferences or biases, steering them towards specific career options instead of considering their genuine interests and aspirations.

Reality: Reputable career counselors/coaches prioritize individual interests, values, and aspirations. They facilitate a process of self-exploration, provide information and options, and empower individuals to make their own decisions based on accurate and personalized guidance.

8. Time Constraints: Students and parents often have busy schedules, and they may perceive career counseling as a time-consuming process. This perception can deter them from seeking professional guidance.

Reality:  Career counseling/coaching sessions are designed to be efficient and tailored to the individual's needs. Professional coaches understand the time constraints faced by students and parents, offering flexible scheduling options and providing focused guidance within the available time.

9. Overconfidence: Individuals who are confident in their career choices may overlook the potential benefits of career counseling/coaching. They may underestimate the complexities and challenges they may encounter along their educational and career journey.

Reality:  Even individuals who are confident in their career choices can benefit from career counseling/coaching. Professional guidance helps individuals gain a deeper understanding of themselves, identify areas for improvement, and maximize their potential for success and fulfillment in their chosen field.

Career counseling/coaching offers numerous benefits and can contribute significantly to an individual's educational and career life journey. It is a valuable resource that empowers individuals to make well-informed decisions, navigate challenges, and achieve long-term satisfaction and success in their chosen careers

Avinaash Deshmukh 

Career Coach and Founder BOLDNET India