Transitioning from Recruiter to Student Counselor: How Do I Start Engaging Students?

I'm from AP. I have experience as an IT and Non-IT recruiter for almost 3 years. I want to continue my profession as a student counselor, guiding students on various technologies they can choose after their studies.

Gathering Students

I would like to know how I can gather students and what I should initially talk to them about.

Initial Pitch

What is the pitch I should maintain? Can any senior managers reply to this? The important thing is that I do not have an office-like place.

Understanding the Role of a Student Counselor

Counseling involves providing guidance to students to help them set their career goals based on their interests. To become a student counselor, one must specialize in counseling tracks to handle different student behaviors. Student counselors may provide one-on-one counseling. If you are interested in pursuing a career as a student counselor, seek a program accredited by counseling authorities. Attending a couple of such programs can enhance your understanding.

Promoting Educational Programs

Student counselors are required to visit universities, colleges, and areas to promote educational programs that appeal to students. This task becomes easier when one student shows interest, as others tend to follow suit. It is a non-profit initiative that connects students with various educational opportunities.

Effective Counseling Sessions

Interactions between counselors and students typically involve discussions where students ask questions and have the chance to seek the information they need. Counseling sessions should not exceed 60 minutes on average to ensure effectiveness. Further counseling should be time-bound to prevent overflow. Regular feedback sessions can help both the student and the counselor understand each other's interests and strengths.

Thank you.

[Please let me know if you need any further assistance.]

It's really commendable that you desire to pursue Student Counseling with your background—especially in these times when most HR professionals at your experience level want to get into core HR (so many postings in this very forum being evidence of this trend). You haven't mentioned if you are still working somewhere.

First and Foremost: Keeping Updated

To address your query, first and foremost, you need to keep yourself updated on the various opportunities available for students. This means you have to keep track of the latest industry happenings and update yourself on career and technology opportunities on a continuous basis.

Your line "I'm not having any office-like place" is a bit confusing. Are you suggesting that you wish to start on your own with this activity? If yes, frankly, that could be a tough proposal at this stage, since it might take a lot of time for you to get established professionally—until then, how would you earn for survival?

Alternative Approach: Joining a Professional College

I think a better option would be to approach some professional college to join as a Placement Coordinator/Officer—where you would automatically be in touch with companies/organizations as a part of your job (without any extra effort) and will also give you the time and opportunity to keep abreast of the latest technical advancements to guide/counsel the students. Just give this a thought.

All the best.

Regards,
TS