The Career Professional’s Guide to Research

“The book you are holding, authored by one of the profession’s leading researchers, Emma Bolger, represents an indispensable guide to research for those in any field of career development practice who are considering embarking on this burgeoning field.Recognising that many careers professionals will approach research for the first tine with trepidation – perhaps assuming that they need a PhD and an academic job in order to even consider research – Bolger starts this book by emphasising how well-placed such professionals are to be able to produce high-quality research. Assuming no special knowledge on the part of the reader, Bolger goes on to outline the qualities of a good researcher, what characterises a good research topic, and how to conduct research ethically, amongst other, equally vital topics.Jargon-free, readers will find this book accessible and practical in equal measure. Bolger helpfully provides practical activities to reinforce learning on the various topics covered, and clearly relates chapter content to the variety of ethical frameworks, benchmarks and competencies that guide their everyday practice. As such, this book does an admirable job of situating research as a core activity of career development practice, rather than something peripheral to the ‘core business’ of careers work.Having thoroughly covered the basics of careers research for those unfamiliar with the activity, Bolger does not stop there. The latter stages of the book help the reader look ahead to how they may wish to develop and disseminate their research, offering a comprehensive overview of the range of platforms on which readers can publish their research, as well as ways in which readers can enhance their skills through CPD, or even postgraduate study.This book fills a vital gap in the career development literature, not only offering a truly accessible and comprehensive manual for beginning researchers, but also a very helpful resource for experienced researchers. A foundational work in its topic, it should be essential reading for careers professionals working in every part of our sector.“Oliver Jenkin, Career Development Professional and Editor of the CDI’s magazine, Career Matters

Dr. Emma Bolger is a Senior Lecturer in Career Guidance and Development at the University of the West of Scotland. She is a Member of the Career Development Institute and AGCAS, and a Committee Member of the AGCAS Research and Knowledge Committee.