I'm going to work on improving my relationships with my students. This will require allowing for additional time in appointments so that we can identify potential issues and co-construct solutions.
I learned about the importance of Active listening and building an open trusting relationship that can move a career challenged client forward towards goals.
The student must respect and at the same time know that you are genuine in your desire to help
There's a fine line between being a coach and a manager and learning to balance that is a critical part in order to suppor the student rather than enabling them. Also, getting to know and understand students early on in the process and establishing a relationship of mutual respect, understanding, and responsibility is important in helping the student reach his/her goal. Finally, being empathetic is key so as to ensure we are taking into account the students needs, not just financially but also psychologically to assist them in finding an opportunity where they feel comfortable to succeed in.
Understand where the student is coming from. Not all student situations are ideal.
The relationship and building the relationship is one of the most important parts of being an effective career coach. Being totally authentic and letting the student know you are there for them as an individual is a crucial piece of ensuring trust can be built. Having one on one meetings early on is a way to ensure that each student knows you are there for them on their own path and will support them with their goals. Continuing check ins and meetings throughout their education is a huge piece of maintaining that relationship.
I learned that there are two types of variables that impact our students' abilities to make informed decisions: personal variables and external variables. Personal Variables include a student's needs, interests, values, and assets. External variables may include economic conditions, social factors, and networks.
- Bernard D. Holmes
