How can you help clients bounce back from career setbacks?

Career setbacks can happen to anyone, at any stage of their professional journey. Whether it's a layoff, a rejection, a demotion, or a failure, these events can shake your confidence, motivation, and self-esteem. As a career counselor, you have a vital role in helping your clients bounce back from career setbacks and pursue their goals with resilience. Here are some ways you can support them.

1 Acknowledge their emotions

Career setbacks can trigger a range of emotions, such as anger, sadness, fear, guilt, or shame. These are normal and valid responses, and your clients need to feel heard and understood. Don't dismiss or minimize their feelings, but empathize with them and validate their experience. Help them express their emotions in healthy ways, such as journaling, talking to someone they trust, or engaging in self-care activities.

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Darlene Souza

Te ajudo a planejar sua transição de carreira segura | Mentora de Carreira | Planejamento de Carreira | Orientação | Assuma o comando da sua carreira!
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Reconhecer suas emoções, sentir o acontecimento é necessário para superar o momento. Nosso apoio será importante ressaltando suas competências e apoiando a passar por esse evento com calma e planejamento.

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2 Reframe their perspective

Career setbacks can also distort your clients' perception of themselves, their abilities, and their opportunities. They may develop negative beliefs, such as "I'm not good enough", "I'll never succeed", or "There's no point in trying". As a career counselor, you can help them reframe their perspective and challenge their limiting thoughts. Help them identify their strengths, achievements, and values, and remind them of their potential and purpose. Help them see the setback as a learning opportunity, not a personal flaw, and encourage them to adopt a growth mindset.

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Darlene Souza

Te ajudo a planejar sua transição de carreira segura | Mentora de Carreira | Planejamento de Carreira | Orientação | Assuma o comando da sua carreira!
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Contratempos sempre trazem reflexões que na maior parte são pejorativas, devemos apoiar o cliente mostrando suas qualidades, competências, fortalecer sua autoestima. A análise comportamental é uma excelente ferramenta que utilizo, é muito completa e aponta habilidades, pontos fortes, valores, ou seja, identifica tudo que o cliente tem de potência para usar a seu favor e se fortalecer nesse momento.

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3 Explore their options

Career setbacks can also create uncertainty and confusion about your clients' next steps. They may feel stuck, lost, or hopeless about their future. As a career counselor, you can help them explore their options and create a realistic and actionable plan. Help them assess their skills, interests, and goals, and research the market and the opportunities available. Help them identify and address any gaps or barriers in their qualifications, skills, or network. Help them set SMART goals and break them down into manageable tasks. Help them track their progress and celebrate their achievements.

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4 Support their action

Career setbacks can also affect your clients' motivation and willingness to take action. They may feel discouraged, anxious, or overwhelmed by the challenges they face. As a career counselor, you can support their action and help them overcome their fears and doubts. Help them prepare for the action steps they need to take, such as updating their resume, applying for jobs, networking, or interviewing. Help them cope with stress and uncertainty, and provide them with feedback and encouragement. Help them learn from their mistakes and failures, and adapt their strategies as needed.

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5 Foster their resilience

Career setbacks can also test your clients' resilience, or their ability to cope with adversity and bounce back from difficulties. Resilience is not a fixed trait, but a skill that can be developed and strengthened. As a career counselor, you can foster your clients' resilience and help them build their confidence and optimism. Help them cultivate a positive attitude and focus on the things they can control. Help them develop coping skills, such as relaxation techniques, problem-solving skills, or seeking support. Help them find meaning and value in their experiences, and inspire them to pursue their passions and goals.

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6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Darlene Souza

Te ajudo a planejar sua transição de carreira segura | Mentora de Carreira | Planejamento de Carreira | Orientação | Assuma o comando da sua carreira!
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Contratempos, situações inesperadas na carreira sempre podem acontecer, por isso ressalto a importância de constante desenvolvimento. Se você investe na sua carreira, está ciente das suas competências, com autoestima fortalecida, entende da sua real capacidade como pessoa e profissional, o contratempo será amenizado, pois você está preparado para novos desafios.

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How can you help clients bounce back from career setbacks?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Acknowledge their emotions

2 Reframe their perspective

3 Explore their options

4 Support their action

5 Foster their resilience

6 Here’s what else to consider

Career Counseling

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How can you help clients bounce back from career setbacks?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Acknowledge their emotions

2 Reframe their perspective

3 Explore their options

4 Support their action

5 Foster their resilience

6 Here’s what else to consider

Career Counseling

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

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