Applying Career Construction Theory in Practice

In this 90-minute workshop, Dr. Kevin Glavin presents Career Construction Theory (CCT) as a practical framework for contemporary career practice, demonstrating techniques practitioners can adapt and use in their own professional contexts. Based on Professor Mark Savickas’ pioneering work, this session links the theoretical foundations of CCT with everyday application through exploration of the Career Construction Interview (CCI).

The workshop begins by situating CCT within today’s world of work, where traditional career paths have become less predictable, and transitions are often complex, ambiguous, and unfamiliar. Dr. Glavin will provide an overview of the theory, explaining how it supports clients in constructing personal meaning and adapting to ongoing change.

Central to the session is the Career Construction Interview (CCI). Dr. Glavin will describe and explain the five key questions that form the foundation of the CCI, highlighting their role in helping clients express and organize their life stories. Particular attention will be given to the Role Model Question, which invites clients to reflect on people they admire and consider how those role models reveal values, strengths, and future possibilities.

Participants will take part in a brief exercise using this question. Working individually, they will ask themselves the Role Model Question and consider how their answers might suggest strategies for addressing their own current career/life challenges and transitions. This activity gives practitioners a firsthand experience with the method and provides a simple tool they can use immediately in their work with clients.

Dr. Glavin will also outline practical ways the information gathered from clients’ stories can inform next steps in their career exploration. The workshop highlights applications of CCT across diverse populations and professional settings, including higher education, private practice, organisational development, and public employment programs.

The session concludes with an open Q&A, allowing participants to share reflections and ask questions about integrating Career Construction Theory into their professional practice.

Key Learning Outcomes

Participants will:

·      Understand the foundational principles and structure of Career Construction Theory.

·      Learn the five questions of the Career Construction Interview.

·      Practice the Role Model Question technique through guided reflection.

·      Identify ways to support clients navigating complex career transitions.

CICA Competences - Career development theory, Communication and interpersonal skills, Professional practice application

Speaker - Dr Kevin Glavin

Dr. Kevin Glavin is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Educator, and Founder of Create Your Why, a company dedicated to advancing career counseling, coaching, and training through narrative and technological innovation. With more than 20 years of experience in counselor education and supervision, Kevin serves as core faculty at Walden University, where he teaches graduate counseling courses and mentors future professionals. Trained for 10 years under Professor Mark Savickas, he has become a leading voice in Life Designing for Career Construction, developing the first fully online courses in this approach. Kevin has published 17 peer-reviewed articles, presented internationally, and held leadership roles including President of the Ohio Career Development Association and Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Employment Counseling. His honors include the 2016 JAIC International Contribution Award, 2024 APCDA Outstanding Educator Award, and the 2025 NCDA Merit Award.

A recording of the webinar will be made available to all registered attendees. If you’re unable to join the live session, you’ll receive access to the recording after the event for up to 14 days to watch at your convenience.