If you own a company in the career counseling industry, you would do well to partner with career counseling groups to strengthen your business expertise and credibility. Industry organizations bring together professionals with similar goals and challenges. Members of industry organizations come from all company divisions, but all share the same objective of expanding their knowledge.

Becoming a member of the right organization opens the door to a wealth of expertise. You will be exposed to many networking opportunities, information and resources. Additionally, organizations for career change may also provide invaluable services that include new products, education opportunities and industry support. When looking for membership with a career counseling group, remember the following:

1. Make sure the association you're interested in is credible. Check Better Business Bureau or other industry accreditations.

2. Many associations for career counseling don’t stipulate membership for certification.

3. Most organizations charge fees for memberships, so make sure you’re getting your money’s worth before you pay.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Become a member of accredited councils for career counseling

Although many career counselor organizations offer information, tools and resources to non-members, you can benefit substantially from becoming a member. Membership in career counselor associations opens the door to additional service, product and representation. Register as a business rather than as just an individual, if possible, so your employees can benefit from the membership.

I recommend: The National Career Development Association provides a number of benefits to its members, including a mentoring program, networking opportunities and professional recognition. The Association of Career Professionals International includes a members-only chat room as part of its extensive membership benefits package.

Take advantage of certification opportunities provided by career counseling groups

Progress stops for no one, and you need to advance as a professional by keeping your industry skills sharp and current. Take advantage of educational programs and tools to assist you and your employees in knowledge development and career advancement. Many organizations offer information on upcoming seminars, conferences, business development courses and other industry-related programs, in addition to industry certifications.

I recommend: Council for Accreditation of Counseling Related Educational Programs specializes in Institutional and specialized accreditation. The Career Planning & Adult Development Network sponsors a wide selection of skill-building certification workshops.

Join organizations for career counseling that offer a full schedule of events and conferences

Events and conferences are a boon to any business. They give you an opportunity to network and share issues with industry peers. More importantly, they give your company exposure within the industry, and provide you an opportunity to further your relationships with other businesses. Try and pick organizations with nationally-recognized events.

I recommend: The Middle Atlantic Career Counseling Association and the California Career Development Association both offer a calendar of industry events for networking opportunities.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you're considering career counseling organizations for their online resources, look for one with an active forum where you can discuss issues with industry experts in real time