Homework Assignments for Clients

When working with motivated adult clients, I find that they actually really enjoy it when I assign homework between sessions. This may seem strange until you think about it. First, it makes clients feel like they are doing something productive towards their goal of becoming gainfully employed. Second, the process of soul searching is one that few people have been given the tools to do in life and it can be very enjoyable and satisfying.

One of the homework assignments that I recently put together and am just starting to use is the Randomly Acquired Knowledge (RAK) assignment. I am finding this assignment particularly helpful when clients do not have a clear direction. It is also one to help build confidence. Here are the basic directions in the handout.

“What do you know about? What knowledge have you accumulated? What information do your family and friends come to you for? Even if you don’t think something is relevant, a big deal or useful to know, write it down.”

The other standby homework assignment is the good old Brainstorming List exercise. Most of Carla's and my clients get this in their first session or at a workshop. It gives them space to start listing careers to explore with a pro and con column.

Both of the above assignments could easily be used in Job Clubs and provide great sharing and networking opportunities. What homework assignments have you found helpful?

Career Killers To Avoid

According to a survey of top executives and hiring officials conducted by career counselor Robin Ryan and author of What To Do With The Rest Of Your Life, there are some common ways that people tend to sabotage their own careers. Ms. Ryan identified several traits, standards and characteristics that successful leaders seek in developing their workforce. Take the time this year to look closer and focus on goal setting in these strategic areas.

Not producing results or solving company problems. According to top executives, you must not only be good at what you do, but you have to be able to proactively solve company problems, get things done, and produce. When it comes to promotions or avoiding a layoff, these are critical factors. In essence, does your resume contain quantifiable statistics (i.e. #, $, %)?

Not working at a job you’re passionate about. By discovering your passion and then finding a way to work in that area, you will be not only healthier and happier, but much more successful. Life is too short to waste it on an unfulfilling job.

Seeking job security. In today’s world of work, there is no such thing as job security! Each of us must not only constantly build and nurture our network, but we must also consciously develop a portfolio of marketable skills that we take from job to job. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that Americans will make a job change (by choice or not) about every 3.5 years. This equates to twelve or more job or career changes during your working lifetime. What skill or talent do you possess that employers desire?

Thinking that money is everything. Through working with hundreds of career clients, it doesn’t take long to see that money does not buy happiness. Most people are willing to take a salary cut in order to obtain more job satisfaction or a better quality of life. Be cautious of chasing money only.

Waiting for employers to notice you. Too many clients timidly wait for a raise or promotion, and then are disappointed when they are overlooked. Often it takes being much more proactive. Have direct conversations with your supervisor or mentor about your career path and clearly articulate your desire for advancement or other opportunities. This may result in rewriting your job description, taking on additional responsibilities, updating your resume, and testing the job market.