No matter where you are in your career journey—just starting out, freshly graduated, or years into the workforce—uncertainty can strike at any point. Maybe you’re unsure which stream to choose in school, confused about what to do after college, or stuck in a job that doesn’t feel right anymore. And yet, despite the confusion, most people try to figure it out alone.

But here’s the truth: career clarity doesn’t always come naturally, and that’s okay. Career counselling exists for exactly these moments. Whether you're planning long term goals career-wise, building career development plan, or feeling lost altogether, talking to a professional can provide the direction and confidence you need to move forward.

Signs It’s Time to Talk to a Career Counsellor

For Students: Laying the Foundation Right

As a student, especially in classes 8–12, the future might feel both exciting and overwhelming. There’s pressure to choose the “right” stream, the “best” college, or a “stable” career—often without enough clarity.

Signs you need a career counsellor:

• You’re unsure which subjects or stream to choose.

• You’re influenced more by what friends or parents suggest than your own interests.

• You feel anxious when thinking about the future or choosing between science, commerce, and arts.

• You don’t know what careers exist beyond the popular ones like engineering or medicine.

A career counsellor can help you discover your strengths, match your interests to careers, and introduce you to paths you might not even know exist.

For Graduates: Making the Right Transition

Graduation is supposed to be a milestone, but for many, it feels like a cliff. If you’ve just completed college or are in your final year, this is a time of crucial decision-making—and sometimes, confusion.

Signs you need a career counsellor:

• You have a degree but don’t know what career to pursue.

• You’re overwhelmed by choices—higher studies, jobs, or entrance exams—and can’t decide.

• You’re applying for roles that don’t excite you just to “do something.”

• You lack confidence in interviews or your career decisions so far.

Career counselling at this stage can help you make intentional, informed choices. It supports your career planning and helps create clear individual development plans that match your long-term vision.

For Working Professionals: Reassess, Realign, Rediscover

Even after years in a career, things can feel off-track. Maybe you’re successful on paper but feel stuck, or you’re constantly wondering if there’s something better out there. That’s not uncommon—and it’s not too late to realign.

Signs you need a career counsellor:

• You feel unmotivated or dissatisfied with your current role.

• You’re thinking of switching careers but have no idea where to start.

• Promotions and growth opportunities seem to have stalled.

• You feel you’ve outgrown your job but fear starting over.

• Your long term goals career-wise are unclear or keep shifting.

At this stage, a counsellor becomes a strategic career advisor—someone who helps you evaluate where you are, what’s working, and what needs to change. They can also help you plan for upskilling, shifting industries, or building new career development plan aligned with your evolving goals.

Lost between options or feeling pressured by expectations?

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We’ll help you discover what truly fits you.

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What to Expect from Career Counselling?

A common hesitation many people have is not knowing what actually happens during a career counselling session. Is it like therapy? Is it only for students? Will someone tell you what to do with your life? Let’s clear that up.

Here’s what you can typically expect:

• Self-discovery assessments: Counsellors often begin with career assessment test which will help you understand your interests, personality type, values, and aptitude.

• Personalised guidance: Based on your profile, you’ll receive personalized advice—whether it’s choosing subjects, exploring new-age careers, or planning a career shift.

• Structured planning: You’ll work together to create individual development plans that include short- and long-term career goals, learning paths, skill-building, and timelines.

• Confidence building: It’s not just about information—it’s about empowerment. You’ll walk out with greater clarity and confidence in your decisions.

Career counselling is more of a collaboration than instruction. It’s not about being told what to do—it’s about discovering what you want and how to get there.

Common Myths About Career Counselling – Busted!

Many people shy away from counselling because of misconceptions. Let’s address a few common ones:

• “Only weak or confused people need counselling.”

Not true! Even high-achievers seek guidance. Career counselling is about enhancing clarity, not fixing something that’s broken.

• “Counsellors will force me into one career path.”

Wrong again. Good counsellors never push. They help you explore, evaluate, and choose based on informed insights and your personal preferences.

• “It’s only for students.”

Career counselling is for anyone—whether you’re a 15-year-old choosing a stream or a 45-year-old planning a career pivot. Career planning is a lifelong process.

• “I already know what I want, so I don’t need help.”

Even if you’re clear on your goal, a counsellor can help you build career development plans, identify growth opportunities, and uncover blind spots you may not see yourself.

By debunking these myths, more people can access the incredible value that career counselling offers—at any stage of life.

Conclusion

Career journeys are rarely a straight path—and they don’t have to be walked alone. Whether you're still in school, a recent graduate, or discovering the professional world, knowing when to seek support can make all the difference. If you’ve ever wondered, should you talk to a career counsellor, this blog has hopefully answered that for you. Don’t wait for confusion to turn into regret. Reach out to SetMyCareer and let our experts help you find the direction, purpose, and success you deserve.