What is career development?

The definition of a career has changed over the years.  A career no longer refers to a single pathway to work.  

Careers are 'constructed' through the series of choices we make throughout our lives.

A career is a life-long process.  It includes the variety of work roles (paid and unpaid) which you undertake throughout your lifetime, such as everyday life roles (parent, volunteer), leisure activities, learning and work.

Career development is the process of managing life, learning and work. Career development is a term used to describe the management of work-related activity throughout your life.

Career development includes providing services (in many different settings) to assist people gain more knowledge, skills, attitudes and behaviours that help them to manage their career more effectively.

Career development is simply a way of thinking about your life, particularly in the context of education, training and employment. It puts you at the centre of decision making about your future.

Career development is equally important if you are looking for work; if you are already employed; or you are an employer, as it recognises the need for skilled workers in a world of increasing change and complexity.

Career development is a lifelong process. Individuals will continue to build and draw on their experiences and capabilities. The process is unique to each individual and people will require different types of assistance dependant on the many factors affecting your life, such as family, society, work history and the labour market.