What are some best practices and resources for career counseling with diverse and marginalized populations?

According to me here are some best practices for inclusive approach: 📌Cultural Competence 📌 Individualization 📌Active listening 📌Avoid stereotyping 📌Inclusive language 📌 Knowledge of resources 📌 Collaboration 📌 Respect Confidentiality 📌 Intersectionality 📌Self reflection 📌Career Assessment 📌Skill Development 📌Advocacy 📌Feedback and evaluation 📌Training and Education We should always remember that career counseling with a diverse population is an ongoing learning process and willingness to adapt and grow in this field is essential to providing effective support.

In my experience bias is a complex and multifaceted issue that can significantly impact our lives and interactions with others. I recently had a conversation with a friend who shared how their biases have hindered their progress. They revealed that seemingly minor aspects, such as writing style or speaking mannerisms, can sometimes become distractions that affect their ability to perform optimally. Individual bias, as my friend experienced, refers to preferences that individuals themselves hold. These biases can be conscious or unconscious, impacting our judgments, decisions, and behaviors in various ways. As career coaches, we must recognize and address biases in ourselves and our clients to create a supportive coaching relationship.

Looking at local barriers due to urban planning or history of society in that location is key. I’m in Tulsa. The 100 years of systemic oppression shows up as an inefficient public transport system. As a complete segregation of citizens via Highway 244 in the ‘70s. Everyone of those decisions from the past indicates the present marginalized populations. Add the layer of being a city in Oklahoma? It doesn’t take long to assess where local biases stem from. Helping others know how to understand power dynamics in an interview regardless of class, background or status is a core life achievement. ❤️

Understand that individuals' career paths are influenced by systemic and structural factors such as race, gender, socioeconomic status, and ability. Acknowledging these factors is crucial for providing equitable support and guidance to clients from diverse backgrounds. Take proactive steps to challenge dominant norms that perpetuate inequality and discrimination in the workplace and society. Advocate for inclusive policies and practices that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of career development.

If a student in the community does not connect life success and potential earnings to a college education, we have to do better in making that a worthwhile investment of time and effort. Learning a trade or earning a degree seems like an impossible dream to some of my students. Creating continuity in the community and providing opportunities for students to meet with alumni who have achieved those same goals and dreams is so important for future generations.

One of the eminent experts about this aspect of counselling is Dr. Nancy Arthur. She has written & spoken widely about this topic. @Nancy Arthur