An Interview with ContactPoint’s First President and Current Presidents (Part 2)

To commemorate this occasion of ContactPoint’s 10th anniversary, we interviewed the first President of the ContactPoint Board, Catherine Mossop and current President Jennifer Browne.

What was your involvement in ContactPoint? Why did you become involved?

Catherine Mossop:

I became involved with ContactPoint while working on a committee on career issues with individuals like Ari Gitterman and Lisa Avedon. I was probably the only private sector person involved at the time which is interesting since the private sector does the bulk of hiring of people and career issues are incredibly important to them. Lisa was the one who compelled me to get involved.

In many regards, this was unquestionably one of the most rewarding team experiences I have ever had. We came together, created a common vision, rallied support and had unwavering assistance from Jean Faulds. We clearly carved out what we wanted ContactPoint to look, feel, and be like – it was terrific!

Jennifer Browne:

I learned about ContactPoint through others in the field of career development. The first thing I utilized on the ContactPoint web page was the Learning section – exploring different conferences that were out there. I was delighted to find a place where all career related conferences and other professional development events were listed in one place, and I could link to each one. I had been using the site for a couple of years when I was approached to join the ContactPoint Board. I was excited about the opportunity to work with colleagues from across the country on a topic I am passionate about. My involvement allows me to remain current and give back to the field.

How has the field of career counselling/career development changed in the last 10 years and where do you see it going?

Catherine Mossop:

I anticipate that more corporations will have internal career advisory services for their employees; more on-line assessment tools and resources; an increasing demand for qualifications and credentials; added depth of expertise in managing life balance and career issues. This is at all stages of life – career entry, mid career, and innovations in the concept of retirement careers.

Jennifer Browne:

I see a much bigger emphasis on the use of technology and reaching clients in non-traditional ways. There is also more of a focus on working with specific groups such as aboriginal people, immigrants, international students and more. With the demographics as they are and an aging workforce, certain sectors will be affected more than others and this may impact some of the work we do. I also have noted an increased number of parents who are becoming involved in their children’s career development. This was not as common 10 years ago.

What was your most rewarding moment/experience working with ContactPoint?

Catherine Mossop:

I would have to say that it has been the fabulous group of people that I’ve had the opportunity to work with along the way. How The Counselling Foundation of Canada has made a real difference with their investment. It has also been the incredible energy of the people working in such a rewarding field and the diversity of people and their ideas.

Jennifer Browne:

Working with peers form across the country and in different sectors has been phenomenal. Networking still proves to be a valuable resource for all of us. I have made wonderful friends through this experience. As well, referring someone to the website and then hearing them say that the website is the best thing they have ever found! It was like opening their eyes to a professional treasure chest. They are always amazed at the amount of information available and the impact it will have on how they do their job.

Click here to read the first part of this interview which appeared in the Summer 2007 Bulletin Newsletter.