The key is helping Canadians choose education and training programs and fields of work that serve both their needs and the needs of the evolving workforce. Our society is based on freedom of choice, which is limited by knowledge of one's options and mastery of good decision-making skills. Our challenge is to help Canadians learn how to choose wisely, as often as necessary, and be committed to on-going learning to become better, more satisfied and more fulfilled at what they choose to do, both at work and in their communities.
Canadians need good career and labour market information. In the words of Richard Froeschle (2002), Career Resource Network Director with the Texas Workforce Commission, " labor market and career information is to students and job seekers what market research data is to business - invaluable."(10) High quality, current and comprehensive information is essential, but it is not enough. Canadians also need skills to use the information effectively to make sound choices. They need skills that give them legitimate self-reliance. They need focus, on what they have to offer and on what is important to them. They need direction, knowing their options, what is suitable for them, and what is needed to get where they want to go. They need adaptability, the skill of making the best of ever-present change. Collectively, these are career management skills, and they cannot be learned solely from printed publications and websites. Human support during the learning process is essential.
Druckversion