GCDF
“GCDF” stands for Global Career Development Facilitator, and it is the most recognized and respected credential for career advisors in the world.
Career Development Facilitator …
A career development facilitator (CDF) works in a career development environment using information and resources to assist adults, students, employees, clients, customers, or the general public. The CDF should have in-depth knowledge, skills, and abilities encompassing a dozen competencies (see below). They are usually derived from a combination of on-the-job experience and structured training in the form of a 120 contact hour curriculum like the one developed by the National Career Development Association (NCDA).
Core Competencies …
The core competencies identified by the NCDA for CDF’s are listed below:
- Helping Skills – be proficient in the basic career facilitating process.
- Labor Market Information and Resources – understand labor market and occupational information and trends; use current resources.
- Working with Diverse Populations – recognize special needs of various groups and adapting services to meet their needs/
- Technology and Career Development – comprehend and use career development computer applications
- Ethical and Legal Issues – follow the CDF code of ethics and know current legislative regulations.
- Employability Skills – know job search strategies and placement techniques, especially in working with specific groups.
- Consultation/Supervision – accept suggestions for performance improvement from consultants or supervisors.
- Training Clients and Peers – prepare and develop materials for training programs and presentations
- Career Development Theories and Models – identify and apply various leading theories in career development.
- Program Management and Implementation – understand career development programs and assist in the steps related to their development.
- Assessment – comprehend and use both formal and informal career development assessments with emphasis on relating appropriate ones to the population served.
- Promotion and Public Relations – knowing how to market and promote career development programs with staff and supervisors.
Eligibility For The GCDF Credential …
CDF’s will have to comply with the national certification standards below when applying for the GCDF after completing course requirements. It lists “Documented Education Level” of the applicant with the corresponding “Work Experience” in career development necessary.
- Graduate Degree + 1,400 contact hours experience (about one year)
- Bachelors Degree + 2,800 contact hours experience (about two years)
- Associates Degree + 4,200 contact hours experience (about three years)
- High School Diploma + 5,600 contact hours experience (about four years)
About CDF Training …
The CDF curriculum can enhance the knowledge, skills, and abilities of practicioners in any type of career development settings. This may include those who serve as a career group facilitator, career coach, intake interviewer, human resource specialist, school guidance counselor, job search trainer, labor market information resource person, employment/ placement specialist, or workforce development staff person. CDFs from past classes have included those who work in corporations, government agencies, technical colleges, small private companies, large universities, high schools and middle schools, correctional institutions, and entrepreneurial settings.
