State-Funded Initiative Aiding Your Project Without Cost
Switching Up Your Career Path Made Easy: France's Career Evolution Counseling (CEC)
By Guilhem Pouiol Published on
When it comes to career aspirations and professional advancement, many French folks fall under the same boat. In fact, a survey by Apec indicates that approximately half of France's workforce is contemplating career changes[1]. Navigating such shifting professional tides can be daunting, but fear not – France has got your back! Introducing Career Evolution Counseling, or CEC, a free, obstacle-free service open to all active individuals since 2014[2].
Whether you're a private sector employee, self-employed, intermittent worker, public agent, or job-seeking, you're eligible to avail of a CEC advisor to help you map out your professional journey. To take advantage of this government-funded service, administered by France Competences, hop onto the CEC website to schedule your first appointment with one of the 1,200 professional advisors available nationwide[2]. Expect an invitation for a face-to-face meetup within two weeks at one of the 600 agencies[2]. This 1-hour, 30-minute session lets you voice your goals or ambitions to your advisor.
Lifelong support and resources
The advisor verifies the feasibility of your project and, if needed, nudges you towards training organizations[2]. They also extend a helping hand on administrative matters by walking you through the steps to apply for funding. As Eric Soubrane, the CEC head in Ile-de-France, puts it: "Most aspirants contact us without a clear idea of their career evolution path. We're here to support them, craft a realistic plan, and find the perfect tools to make it happen."
Typically, this tailor-made support spans around 5 to 6 hours across multiple sessions[2]. However, the support doesn't cease after a while; employees can remain connected to their advisors throughout their careers[2]. In addition to individual sessions, CEC offers volunteered workshops intended to boost professional development and webinars[2]. Moreover, employees can approach their advisors for professional interviews, performance reviews, or annual evaluations[2]. Since its introduction, approximately 170,000 individuals have benefited from this service in 2024, representing a 20% uptick over the previous year[2]. Notably, 70% of beneficiaries continue employment with their existing company[2].
Around this article * CEC* Career transition* Career development* Professional networking* Career counseling* Job search strategies
- For individuals seeking growth and career evolution in France, the Career Evolution Counseling (CEC) service offers free, nationwide assistance.
- Regardless of your employment status – be it private, self-employed, or seeking employment – you can avail of a CEC advisor to help plan your career development.
- Alongside personal growth, CEC empowers individuals through skills training, voluntary workshops, and webinars for career development.
- By utilizing the CEC service, job-seekers can benefit from career counseling, employment strategies, and professional networking opportunities.
- As career paths evolve, CEC advisors offer ongoing support to employees, aiding in performance reviews, annual evaluations, and navigating administrative matters for continuous career growth.
