Your Ultimate Guide to National Career Development Month
November is here, which means it’s time to celebrate one of the most important aspects of your future—your career! Whether you’re just starting to think about your professional path or you’ve already got a plan in place, National Career Development Month is packed with opportunities to learn, grow, and take actionable steps toward achieving your goals.
From exploring apprenticeship programs to mastering interview skills, this month is dedicated to giving you the tools you need to succeed. Let’s dive into everything you can expect from Career Development Month, with a breakdown of key events, tips for success, and ways to take charge of your professional growth.
November 4
National Job Action Day
Take a Bold Step Toward Your Career Goals
Starting strong, November 4th marks National Job Action Day—the perfect time to pause and reflect on your career path. But this day isn’t just about reflection; it’s all about action.
What is National Job Action Day?
National Job Action Day is designed to encourage people at all stages of their careers to take proactive steps toward achieving their professional dreams. Whether you're a student, recent graduate, or experienced professional, this is your opportunity to make bold moves.
How Can You Take Action?
- The first step to achieving your dream career is knowing exactly what you want. Take some time on November 4th to write down your short-term and long-term career goals. Be as specific as possible—what industry do you want to work in? What role do you want to hold? What companies inspire you?
- Once you have your goals in mind, it’s time to create a Career Mapping Project (more on that later). Outline the steps, skills, and experiences you need to move forward. Think of this as your professional roadmap.
- An up-to-date resume and LinkedIn profile are crucial. Make sure your skills, experiences, and achievements are clearly highlighted. Don’t forget to tailor your resume to the types of roles you're aiming for!
- Attend a networking event or reach out to professionals on LinkedIn. Building relationships within your desired industry can lead to mentorship, job opportunities, and invaluable advice.
November 4th is your day to get serious about your career aspirations. Use this opportunity to take a solid step toward your dream job.
November 13-19
National Apprenticeship Week
What is an Apprenticeship and Why Should You Consider One?
From November 13th to 19th, we celebrate National Apprenticeship Week, a time to highlight the benefits of hands-on learning. Apprenticeships are gaining popularity across industries, providing a way for individuals to gain practical experience while still in school or early in their career.
So, What is an Apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a structured program where you work under the guidance of a skilled professional while simultaneously receiving formal education. Unlike internships, apprenticeships often come with a paycheck and offer deeper, more specialized training.
Why Consider an Apprenticeship?
- Apprenticeships provide valuable real-world experience that’s difficult to replicate in a classroom setting. Whether it’s learning technical skills in IT or hands-on healthcare training, apprenticeships immerse you in the job from day one.
- One of the best things about apprenticeships is that they’re paid positions. You earn while you learn, which means you’re not only gaining valuable skills but also making money.
- Many companies use apprenticeships as a way to scout future full-time employees. Completing an apprenticeship can often lead directly to a job offer, saving you the hassle of job hunting after you finish your education.
If you’re looking to gain experience in fields like healthcare, engineering, or skilled trades, apprenticeships could be a perfect fit. During National Apprenticeship Week, explore options that align with your career goals and see how they can fast-track your journey.
November 13
National Career Development Day
Your Roadmap to Success Starts Here
November 13th is National Career Development Day, and it’s all about focusing on the skills and steps you need to achieve your career goals. This day is a chance to assess where you are in your professional journey and figure out what you need to do next.
What is Career Mapping?
Career mapping is the process of plotting out the steps you need to take to get from where you are now to where you want to be in the future. Think of it like a GPS for your career—it helps you navigate the twists and turns along the way.
How to Build Your Career Map:
Start with your long-term vision. What’s your dream job? Be specific about the role, industry, and even the company if possible.
1. Once you know where you want to end up, break your goal down into smaller, manageable milestones. These could be earning a certain degree, gaining experience in a specific role, or learning a new skill.
2. Every goal needs a deadline. Set realistic timelines for when you want to achieve each milestone. This will keep you motivated and accountable.
3. What skills or experiences are you missing? Identifying these gaps will help you figure out what you need to focus on next—whether it’s taking a course, seeking mentorship, or gaining experience in a particular area.
5. Your career map isn’t set in stone. As you grow and gain new experiences, revisit your map and make adjustments based on new interests or opportunities.
On National Career Development Day, take the time to sit down and create or refine your career map. Having a clear, actionable plan is one of the most effective ways to ensure long-term success.
November 21
National Interview Day
Sharpen Your Interview Skills
Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but National Interview Day on November 21st is here to help you perfect your skills and prepare to nail that next job interview.
Practice Makes Perfect
The best way to improve your interview skills is through practice. Mock interviews are a great way to simulate real interview conditions and receive constructive feedback. Consider practicing with a friend, mentor, or career counselor to get comfortable answering common interview questions and handling unexpected ones with confidence.
Tips for Acing Your Next Interview:
1. Learn everything you can about the company, the role, and the industry. Tailor your answers to show that you understand the company’s mission and how you can contribute to their success.
2. Be ready with a concise, compelling summary of who you are, your key achievements, and why you’re the best fit for the role.
3. Many interviews feature behavioral questions like “Tell me about a time you overcame a challenge.” Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses and demonstrate your problem-solving skills.
4. An interview is a two-way street. Prepare a few thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer, showing your genuine interest in the role and the company.
Test Your Skills
Want to take it a step further? Participate in an interview competition. These events mimic real interview scenarios and offer valuable feedback from professionals. Plus, they give you a chance to compare your skills with others, helping you see where you excel and where you can improve.
Career Development Month at Marywood University
As Career Development Month unfolds, take advantage of the many resources and opportunities available to help you grow both personally and professionally. From crafting a career map to preparing for interviews, November is the perfect time to take charge of your future.
And for Marywood students, there’s no better place to turn than the Marywood University Career Services. Brianna Florovito, Director of Career Services, is here to help you with everything from creating a winning resume to finding internships and apprenticeship opportunities that align with your career goals.
Remember, your career is a journey full of twists, turns, and opportunities for growth. Whether you’re taking your first steps or fine-tuning your plan, November is the time to take action, reflect on your goals, and set yourself up for success.
Ready to get started? Visit the Marywood Career Services department today and begin building the career you’ve always dreamed of. Let’s make this Career Development Month one to remember!
The Ultimate Career Development Guide: 5 Tips to Start Your Journey
As National Career Development Month approaches this November, it’s the perfect time to take charge of your future. Whether you're a current student, recent graduate, or an alumni looking to make a shift, this is the month to focus on actionable steps to grow professionally. With key dates like Job Action Day (November 4), National Career Development Day (November 13), and National Interview Day (November 21), November is packed with opportunities to take your career to the next level. Here are five tips to help you launch a successful career development journey.
1. Take a Bold Step on Job Action Day
Job Action Day, held on November 4, is all about taking charge of your career goals. To make the most of this day:
Set your goals: Define both your short-term and long-term career objectives.
Research your target industry: Identify companies and roles that align with your career path.
Create a roadmap: Outline the steps and skills you need to reach your goals. Attend a career mapping event if available to help visualize your future career direction.
2. Create Your Career Map
A career map helps guide you from where you are to where you want to be. To create your own career map:
Start with your long-term goals: Identify your ultimate career objectives.
Break it down into milestones: Set smaller, achievable steps that move you toward your larger goal.
Set deadlines: Attach timelines to each milestone to keep yourself on track.
Identify skill gaps: Determine what skills or experiences you need to reach your goals. Consider attending career mapping workshops to receive guidance on this process.
3. Boost Your Professional Image
Your professional image is a key factor in how employers perceive you. To improve your personal brand, you can :
Update your headshot: Ensure your profile photo on LinkedIn is current and professional.
Revise your LinkedIn profile: Make sure all sections are complete and up to date.
Get feedback: Ask for constructive critiques from mentors or peers. If possible, attend professional headshot events to enhance your image.
4. Prepare for Interviews on National Interview Day
Preparing for interviews is critical to landing your dream job. On National Interview Day (November 21):
Research common interview questions: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to answer behavioral questions.
Prepare a personal pitch: Be ready to introduce yourself and explain why you’re a good fit for the role.
Perform a Mock interview: Practice with a mentor, friend, or through a mock interview event. Taking time to participate in mock interview workshops can significantly improve your confidence.
5. Build Your Network and Seek Mentorship
Networking and mentorship are essential parts of career development:
Attend events and Seek Mentorship: Engage in professional or industry networking events, both in-person and online, to find a mentor who can provide guidance, feedback, and support.
Reach out on LinkedIn: Connect with professionals in your field and build relationships.
Follow up: After connecting, maintain the relationship with periodic check-ins. Attend networking events and mentorship-focused activities to expand your connections.
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