Creative writing practices in career guidance: An autoethnographical approach

Abstract

Today’s careers practitioners are tasked with offering assistance to a populace becoming increasingly culturally diverse, whilst facing ever growing professional insecurity. Uncertainty besets not just the seeker but also the helper. There is a need to develop creative practice to meet the needs of individuals but also to motivate practitioners to, tentatively, venture forward. This article will consider creative written practices referring to case studies and my own MA autoethnographical experience, offering both a reflective and reflexive account. Some feel unable to voice their thoughts and feelings. Writing their narrative could heighten self awareness and become a catalyst for career development. My intention is to encourage career professionals to consider possible creative writing processes to facilitate clients to tell their unique stories, but also as better assisting others to understand the changing nature of career.