Emi guides young people starting from the age of fifteen, but she also sees individuals in their twenties and thirties in her practice and among her clients. "People who didn't make the right study choice earlier often find themselves in the wrong place later on. That's why it's so important to gain insight into your talents at a young age. Young people make significant choices during a period when they are still developing. Nowadays, you don't just choose a job to stay in forever; it's more about knowing which environment suits you best and how you can leverage your talents."
Finding the Right Path with Detours
Emi herself took some detours to find the right path, but she now knows her talents: she is empathetic and skilled in networking, collaboration, planning, and organizing. "I've had various roles. For twenty years, I worked as a marketing and communications specialist at a bank, where I had a lot of freedom and learned a great deal." However, something was missing. "Because I couldn't quite put my finger on it, I spoke with a career coach. It turned out that I was looking for depth and that developing and guiding young people would give me much more satisfaction. Four years ago, I started my practice. Now, I feel that doing something you like is really different from doing something with passion and energy."
National Youth Talent Day
Emi also works as a coach for Kickor, which organizes the National Youth Talent Day in October. "The day is intended to boost the mental health of young people, something that is much needed right now. The pressure to perform is high. Young people feel this pressure not only from their environment but also due to increasing student debts. They set high standards for themselves and want to meet the 'perfect picture,' among other things through social media." The COVID-19 period - during which there were fewer activities and fewer opportunities to meet - has also had an impact. "For some, the motivation to learn has completely disappeared. More than ever, young people are searching for what they want and can do." The Kickor coaches volunteer to participate in the day to guide, stimulate, and inspire these young people.
Start a Conversation
Emi advises, "If you struggle with your self-confidence, performance pressure, and/or don't know which direction to go in, talk to your parents or peers. You're not alone. If you feel you need more, you can talk to a coach. Together with young people, I explore their characteristics, strengths, and what makes them happy through the TMA Talent Scan, assignments, and conversations. These insights are incredibly valuable for their study and career choices. That's why I advise young people: take the time to get to know yourself, discover your talents, and then choose what suits you."