The job market challenges significant, Canada-wide issue

June 24, 2024 |
Challenges Facing Canadian Job Seekers

A recent article on CP24 illuminated the remarkable resilience of job seekers in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) amid high unemployment rates. However, this issue isn’t specific to Toronto. Across the country, the job market is characterized by high unemployment rates, economic uncertainty, and a competitive environment that makes job hunting a daunting task for many. This situation is not confined to one region but is a common theme in various provinces and territories. Recent graduates nationwide are finding it increasingly difficult to secure entry-level positions, while seasoned professionals are…

The Hidden Toll of Professional Burnout: The Importance of Self-Care in Career Development

June 7, 2024 |
Self-care

– By Christine Ball, Executive Director, CPC – In the career development sector, professionals are often seen as beacons of guidance, helping others navigate the labyrinth of their careers. They are the architects of dreams, the strategists behind successful transitions, and the motivators who keep the fire of ambition burning. Yet, a hidden toll lies beneath this mantle of responsibility: professional burnout. Career development professionals, in their unique roles, face a myriad of stressors. They must stay current on industry trends, labour market changes, and educational advancements, all while providing…

Resiliency: Use This Word With Caution

March 3, 2023 |
Resiliency, as symbolized by a flower blooming through a crack in the pavement.

As part of the helping professions, career professionals help clients achieve their goals by providing guidance, advice, resources, and caring support at every step of their work-life journeys. In my practice, I offer coaching in the areas of career, personal development, and life enhancement. My goal is to facilitate and nurture the overall wellbeing of my clients; to help them create a life that aligns with their vision and dreams. Along the way, I’ve learned what works and what doesn’t; what to say and what not to say. One of…

Return to Work: One Size Does Not Fit All

February 17, 2023 |
Stressed young woman

We have all seen clothing labels that read “One size fits all.” Over the past few months, employers have been calling their employees back to the workplace, however, for some workers, this has created a situation where one size does not fit all. Certain employees are asking for consideration, exceptions, and accommodation. Nancy Doyle published in Forbes that “One rule cannot apply to all. Disabled and neurodivergent people still require flexibility and might need a different rule.” Read on to learn about the impact return to work orders can have on…

How to Help Clients Deal With a Toxic Work Environment

October 14, 2022 |
Regular breaks allow these professionals to recharge

As career professionals, many of us have experienced toxic work environments firsthand, or we may have helped our clients deal with the fallout of toxic environments. Such a scenario can cause undue stress on us, our co-workers, and other people we deal with. In turn, it can negatively influence our attitudes toward people and work in general, and may even affect our personal lives. In this article, we’ll explore what a toxic work environment looks like and how we can help our clients deal with the situation. What is a Toxic Work…

September is Suicide Prevention Month: Let’s Create Hope Through Action

September 9, 2022 |
September is suicide prevention month, depicted by two friends hugging, supporting each other, offering hope.

In Canada, more than 10 people die by suicide every day. Although suicide occurs frequently, there is still a lot of stigma around suicide and efforts to prevent it. September is Suicide Prevention Month. Throughout the month, groups comprised of representatives from all sectors—workplace, health services, community, school boards, and post-secondary institutions—organize events designed to bring awareness of and provide education on the issue of suicide. WARNING! This article may trigger emotional responses. Use your self-care and mindfulness resources to sit with the contents of this post and seek help if…