Guidance Counselor Job Description (Responsibilities, Skills, Duties & Sample Template)

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If you’ve Googled “Guidance Counselor job description,” you’ve probably come across the same dry, cookie-cutter posts that don’t really help you attract the best candidates. Maybe you’ve seen posts that sound more like checklists than something that excites a passionate professional about making a difference in students’ lives.

But here’s the thing: Top guidance counselors aren’t just looking for any job—they’re looking for a role that aligns with their values, gives them the chance to impact lives, and lets them grow professionally.

This article is here to change that. You’ll learn exactly what makes a compelling guidance counselor job description and how you can write one that doesn’t just fill the role but attracts the right person—someone who is ready to guide students, create change, and contribute to your school’s mission.

Not sure where to start? Check out our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/. for a deep dive into writing job descriptions that connect with top talent.

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What A Guidance Counselor Actually Does - Their Duties Explained

A Guidance Counselor is much more than just someone who helps students pick classes. In fact, they play a critical role in shaping students’ academic, emotional, and social development. They’re the go-to person students turn to when they need advice, support, or someone to listen.

On a day-to-day basis, a guidance counselor provides counseling for students, helps them navigate their academic paths, assists with college and career planning, and creates a safe space where students can talk about their challenges. They collaborate with teachers, parents, and school administrators to ensure students have the resources and support they need to succeed.

In short, guidance counselors help students develop the skills to overcome challenges, make decisions about their future, and thrive both inside and outside the classroom.

Two Great Guidance Counselor Job Description Templates

We’ll provide two tailored job description options:

1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced candidates with prior experience.

2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential.

Guidance Counselor Job Description: Experienced Candidate (Fictional School)

Job Title: Experienced Guidance Counselor
 Location: Willow Creek High School, Willow Creek, IL
 Position Type: Full-Time, In-Person
 Salary: $50,000 – $60,000 per year
 Benefits: Health, Dental, Paid Time Off, Professional Development

A Message from Our Team
 [Insert Loom/YouTube video link from the team or school leadership discussing the mission, values, and culture]

About Us
 At Willow Creek High School, we are dedicated to fostering academic excellence, emotional well-being, and personal growth for all our students. We pride ourselves on creating an inclusive environment where every student feels valued and supported. As part of our counseling team, you’ll be instrumental in guiding students through their academic journey, helping them navigate the challenges of adolescence, and preparing them for a successful future.

What You’ll Do

  • Provide individual and group counseling to students on academic, career, and personal issues

  • Assist students in creating academic and career plans, including guidance on college and vocational paths

  • Develop and implement student support programs and initiatives promoting well-being and emotional resilience

  • Collaborate with faculty and administration to address and support students’ needs

  • Provide crisis intervention and emotional support during times of personal or academic distress

  • Maintain records of counseling sessions and student progress

  • Lead workshops on stress management, academic skills, and personal development

  • Assist with college admissions, financial aid applications, and career exploration

What We’re Looking For

  • Master’s degree in School Counseling or related field

  • Licensed as a school counselor (or eligible to obtain certification)

  • 3+ years of experience as a guidance counselor, with a track record of working with diverse student populations

  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with an ability to connect with students, parents, and staff

  • Crisis management and conflict resolution experience

  • Passionate about student success and well-being, with a desire to make a meaningful impact

Why This Role is a Great Fit
 At Willow Creek High School, you’ll have the opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of students. We offer a supportive, collaborative work environment, opportunities for professional growth, and a chance to work with a team dedicated to student success.

How to Apply
 To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your experience and why you are passionate about supporting students. [Insert Application Link]

Guidance Counselor Job Description: Entry-Level / Willing to Train Candidate (Fictional School)

Job Title: Entry-Level Guidance Counselor (Training Available)
 Location: Willow Creek High School, Willow Creek, IL
 Position Type: Full-Time, In-Person
 Salary: $40,000 – $45,000 per year
 Benefits: Health, Dental, Paid Time Off, Professional Development

A Message from Our Team
 [Insert Loom/YouTube video link from the team or school leadership discussing the mission, values, and culture]

About Us
 Willow Creek High School is committed to fostering an environment where every student can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. We provide a supportive atmosphere where our students feel heard, respected, and encouraged to succeed. As part of our team, you’ll help guide students through their academic and personal journeys, ensuring they feel supported and empowered to achieve their goals.

What You’ll Do

  • Assist students with academic advising and career planning

  • Provide emotional support and guidance in one-on-one and group counseling sessions

  • Collaborate with teachers and staff to address student needs and challenges

  • Lead workshops on social-emotional learning, stress management, and academic skills

  • Support students through college applications, career exploration, and decision-making processes

  • Create a positive and inclusive environment for all students

  • Maintain records of counseling sessions and student progress

  • Participate in school-wide programs that promote student well-being and success

What We’re Looking For

  • Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Education, Social Work, or related field (Master’s degree in progress or planned)

  • A genuine desire to help and guide students

  • Strong communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills

  • Passion for personal and professional growth, including a willingness to pursue required certification and training

  • Previous experience working with children or adolescents is a plus but not required

Why This Role is a Great Fit
 This is a fantastic opportunity for someone looking to launch a career in school counseling. At Willow Creek High School, you’ll receive mentorship from experienced professionals, access to ongoing training and development, and the chance to make a real impact on students’ lives.

How to Apply
 Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your passion for the role and interest in working with students. [Insert Application Link]

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Breakdown of Why These Guidance Counselor Posts Work

Creating a great job post isn’t just about listing tasks and qualifications—it’s about connecting with the right candidates and providing them with a clear picture of the role, the company, and the opportunity. Here’s why the job descriptions for the Experienced and Entry-Level Guidance Counselor positions work so well:

1. Clear, Specific Titles

  • What works: The job titles clearly state the role and the level of experience required (e.g., “Experienced Guidance Counselor” and “Entry-Level Guidance Counselor”). This helps avoid confusion and sets expectations for both the candidates and the hiring team.

  • Why it matters: Candidates want to know right away if the job is a fit for their level of experience. A specific title attracts the right talent and keeps applicants from wasting time applying for roles that aren’t suitable for them.

2. Warm Intros with Context

  • What works: Each job description opens with a warm, inviting introduction that outlines the school’s mission and values, as well as the important role the guidance counselor will play in students’ lives.

  • Why it matters: A warm introduction establishes an emotional connection and helps candidates see beyond just the job title. It also gives them context on the company culture, ensuring they understand what kind of team they’ll be joining.

3. Transparent Salary & Perks

  • What works: Both job descriptions include a clear salary range and benefits. While the salary might vary based on experience, transparency is key.

  • Why it matters: Candidates appreciate transparency and it sets the right expectations. Including salary and benefits up front also signals that the company values fairness and is committed to making the hiring process smooth and straightforward.

4. Respectful, Clear Application Process

  • What works: Both job descriptions include a clear, respectful application process that reassures candidates. For example, Willow Creek High School mentions how applicants will be notified and gives clarity on what happens after submission.

  • Why it matters: A clear application process makes candidates feel respected and valued. It reduces anxiety and builds trust, making applicants more likely to follow through and apply.

5. Human Tone That Connects

  • What works: Both descriptions avoid dry, corporate language and instead use a tone that feels human and relatable. The descriptions focus on the candidate’s potential and growth, rather than just listing rigid job responsibilities.

  • Why it matters: A human tone helps job posts stand out from the cookie-cutter descriptions that feel impersonal and uninspiring. It also ensures that candidates feel like they are joining a company that values them as individuals, not just employees.

6. Role Description with Impact

  • What works: The descriptions explain not just what the guidance counselor will do, but also why their role matters. For example, both posts highlight how the counselor will impact students’ academic journeys, personal growth, and emotional well-being.

  • Why it matters: This gives candidates a sense of purpose and helps them see the real-world impact they will have. When candidates understand the broader significance of their role, they’re more likely to feel motivated and passionate about the opportunity.

7. Clear Cultural Fit

  • What works: Both descriptions include details on the school’s values and culture, emphasizing collaboration, respect, and a commitment to student success. For instance, Willow Creek High School emphasizes teamwork and providing a safe space for students to thrive.

  • Why it matters: Highlighting culture helps candidates assess whether they’re a good fit for the team. It ensures that applicants align with the company’s mission and values, which leads to better retention and satisfaction in the long run.

This breakdown highlights why these job descriptions aren’t just functional—they’re designed to connect with the right candidates and set the stage for a strong hiring process. These key elements will help attract not only qualified candidates but also those who align with your school’s mission and culture.

Example of a Bad Guidance Counselor Job Description (And Why It Fails)

Job Title: Guidance Counselor
 Location: Willow Creek High School, Willow Creek, IL
 Position Type: Full-Time, In-Person

Job Summary
 We are seeking a Guidance Counselor to assist students with academic and career guidance. The ideal candidate will help students with scheduling, testing, and personal counseling.

Responsibilities

  • Provide counseling to students
  • Help with scheduling and testing
  • Assist with college and career planning
  • Maintain records of students’ academic progress

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in Psychology or related field
  • Experience in a counseling role
  • Strong communication skills

How to Apply
 Please send your resume and cover letter to hr@willowcreekhighschool.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Why This Job Post Falls Short

1. Generic Job Title

  • What’s wrong: The title is generic (“Guidance Counselor”) without any additional context to make it stand out or give candidates a sense of purpose.
  • Why it matters: A lack of specificity can lead to confusion. Without a clear focus on the type of guidance counselor (e.g., experienced vs. entry-level), this title might attract the wrong candidates or fail to capture the attention of those who are truly qualified and passionate.

2. No Emotional or Cultural Appeal

  • What’s wrong: The introduction is flat and doesn’t provide any insight into the company’s mission or the role’s impact on students.
  • Why it matters: A job post without emotional appeal can seem dry and uninspiring. Top candidates want to know why the role matters, how it fits into the bigger picture, and whether the company’s values align with their own.

3. Vague Responsibilities

  • What’s wrong: The responsibilities are stated in overly broad terms without detailing the specific tasks, goals, or impact of the role.
  • Why it matters: Clear, specific responsibilities help candidates understand what they’ll be doing day-to-day. Vague descriptions can lead to confusion and attract candidates who aren’t prepared for the role.

4. Lack of Transparency

  • What’s wrong: There’s no mention of salary, benefits, or any details on work-life balance.
  • Why it matters: Salary and benefits transparency build trust with candidates and set realistic expectations. Omitting these details can turn off serious applicants and make the post feel outdated.

5. No Cultural or Team Insights

  • What’s wrong: The post doesn’t highlight the school’s culture, values, or what it’s like to work there.
  • Why it matters: Candidates are looking for a place where they can fit in culturally and contribute meaningfully. Without insights into the company culture, candidates won’t know if they align with the school’s mission, which could lead to a mismatch.

6. Cold Application Process

  • What’s wrong: The call to action (CTA) is impersonal and doesn’t reassure candidates about what happens next.
  • Why it matters: A cold, transactional CTA (“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted”) makes the process feel dismissive. Candidates want to feel valued, and clear, respectful communication about the hiring process can make all the difference in securing top talent.

This “bad” example clearly demonstrates how an outdated and generic job description fails to attract high-quality candidates. By not highlighting the impact of the role, company culture, or providing transparency, it misses the opportunity to connect with potential candidates on a deeper level.

Bonus Tips to Make Your Job Description Stand Out

A well-written job description is more than just a list of responsibilities. It’s a reflection of your company, and how you present the role can significantly impact the quality of applicants you attract. Here are some advanced tips to take your job post to the next level:

1. Add an IMPORTANT NOTICE to Build Trust

Candidates want to know their information is safe. Adding a clear statement about your hiring process and data security builds trust and shows that you care about their privacy.

  • Example: “Important Notice: We take the security and privacy of all job applicants very seriously. We will never ask for payment, bank details, or personal financial information during any part of the hiring process.”

2. Mention Leave Days or Flex Time

Candidates appreciate knowing they will have time to recharge, especially in demanding roles like a Guidance Counselor. Offering flexibility in the form of paid time off or flexible working hours can make your job post even more attractive.

  • Example: “Enjoy up to 24 flexible leave days per year so you can recharge and come back stronger.”

3. Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities

Top candidates are looking for more than just a paycheck—they want to grow professionally. Make sure your job description includes information about the opportunities for learning and career advancement within your organization.

  • Example: “We invest in your growth—access training programs and ongoing mentorship to help you advance your career as a school counselor.”

4. Add a Loom Video for a Personal Touch

A personal video from the hiring manager or the team can make your job post stand out. A Loom or YouTube video introduces the role in a more engaging way, helping candidates connect with the team before they even apply.

  • Example: “Watch a short message from our team to learn more about why Willow Creek High School is the right fit for passionate educators like you.”

Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4

5. Promote Your School’s Mission & Culture

Ensure that the candidate understands your school’s mission, vision, and core values. Highlighting these elements not only shows your commitment to student success but also helps candidates see if they’ll fit into the larger team culture.

  • Example: “At Willow Creek High School, we’re committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment where all students can thrive. We believe every student’s success is built on empathy, teamwork, and respect for each individual’s unique journey.”

These bonus tips add depth to your job post, making it more engaging and attractive to candidates who value transparency, growth opportunities, and connection. Taking the extra step to include these elements shows that you’re serious about creating a positive experience for both candidates and employees alike.

Should You Rely on AI Alone To Write Your Job Descriptions

In today’s world, it’s tempting to turn to AI for creating job descriptions. After all, tools like ChatGPT and other AI writing assistants can generate content quickly and efficiently. But here’s the problem: AI-generated job posts can be generic, lacking personality, and fail to reflect the true essence of your school or company.

If you feed an AI tool a simple prompt like “Write a job post for a Guidance Counselor,” you might get a solid but bland and uninspiring description that doesn’t connect with top talent. It may check all the right boxes but lacks the warmth, culture, and passion that truly attract great candidates.

The Wrong Way to Use AI

You might think that a quick, generic job description is good enough, but here’s why it’s not:

  • Lack of Specificity: AI often produces cookie-cutter posts that don’t speak to your school’s unique culture or mission.

  • No Emotional Appeal: AI-generated posts tend to be factual, but they miss the emotional connection that draws passionate candidates.

  • Missed Opportunities for Creativity: AI will follow patterns, but it won’t capture the subtleties of your school’s environment or its human aspects.

Example of a bad AI prompt:
 “Write a job post for a Guidance Counselor that includes responsibilities and qualifications.”

While this will get the job done, it misses the chance to highlight your school’s mission, culture, and impact—things that matter most to top candidates.

The Right Way to Use AI

AI should enhance, not replace, your job description writing process. Here’s how you can use it effectively:

  1. Provide Context: Before using AI, give it clear, detailed information about your school and the role. For example:

    • What does your school stand for? Describe your culture, values, and mission.

    • What’s unique about the role? Give AI details about specific responsibilities, challenges, or growth opportunities.

    • Who are you looking for? Describe the ideal candidate, including personality traits, passions, and skills.

  2. Use AI for Structure: Let AI help organize your thoughts or refine language, but make sure the heart of the post is written by you. Use AI to help with things like grammar, formatting, or getting inspiration for more engaging phrasing.

  3. Personalize and Edit: Once the AI generates a draft, make sure to personalize it. Adjust the tone to reflect your school’s voice and mission. Add specific examples, stories, and videos that show the real-world impact of the role.

Example of a good AI prompt:
 “Help me write a job post for a Guidance Counselor at Willow Creek High School. We’re looking for a passionate counselor who values inclusivity, wants to help students succeed academically and emotionally, and will be a great fit for a supportive, team-driven school culture. Here’s some info about our school’s mission: [insert details].”

This type of prompt ensures the post will resonate with candidates and reflect your unique environment.

Why AI Can Still Help (When Used Right)

AI can be a powerful tool when used correctly. It can:

  • Generate ideas for structure, language, or specific sections.

  • Refine your wording for clarity or flow.

  • Offer writing inspiration that can help get you past writer’s block.

But remember, AI is only as good as the input you provide. It’s a tool, not a replacement for the human touch that candidates crave.

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Need A Quick Copy-Paste Job Description Template

We get it—sometimes you just need something fast. Maybe you’ve already gone through this guide and understand what a strong job post looks like. But you also want a solid starting point you can copy, paste, and tailor to your school in just a few minutes. That’s what this is.

✏️ Important Reminder:
 Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
 This is a foundation, not a final draft.
 Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual company.

In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.

Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.

  • Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
  • Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.

Option 1: Conversational Job Description Template (Culture-First Style)

Job Title: Guidance Counselor at [Company Name]
 Location: [Location]
 Position Type: Full-Time, In-Person
 Salary: $XX – $XX per year
 Benefits: Health, Dental, Paid Time Off, Professional Development

A Message from Our Team
 [Insert Loom/YouTube video link from the team or school leadership discussing the mission, values, and culture]

About Us
 At [Company Name], we are more than just a school—we are a community. We believe in empowering every student to excel academically, emotionally, and socially. As a Guidance Counselor, you’ll be at the heart of this mission, providing students with the support they need to thrive.

What You’ll Do

  • Provide individual and group counseling to help students with academic, personal, and career issues

  • Collaborate with teachers and parents to create personalized academic plans

  • Offer guidance through the college and career exploration process

  • Create and lead workshops to help students develop life skills and manage stress

  • Maintain records of counseling sessions and student progress

  • Assist with crisis intervention when needed

  • Support students in developing emotional resilience and decision-making skills

What We’re Looking For

  • Master’s degree in School Counseling or a related field

  • Licensed as a school counselor (or eligible for certification)

  • X+ years of experience in counseling, particularly with high school students

  • Passionate about student development and well-being

  • Excellent communication skills, with the ability to connect with diverse students

  • Ability to work collaboratively with a team of educators

Why This Role is a Great Fit
 At [Company Name], we believe that the role of a Guidance Counselor goes beyond academics. You will make a real difference in students’ lives, helping them navigate their educational journey and personal development. Our supportive team is here to help you grow professionally, offering ongoing training, mentorship, and a healthy work-life balance.

How to Apply
 Please submit your resume and a cover letter sharing your passion for supporting students and why you’re the right fit for our team. [Insert Application Link]

Option 2: Structured “Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements” Format

Job Title: Guidance Counselor at [Company Name]
 Location: [Location]
 Position Type: Full-Time, In-Person
 Salary: $XX – $XX per year
 Benefits: Health, Dental, Paid Time Off, Professional Development

Job Brief
 We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Guidance Counselor to join our team at [Company Name]. The ideal candidate will provide academic, career, and emotional support to our students, helping them navigate the challenges of high school and prepare for their futures.

Key Responsibilities

  • Provide individual and group counseling services to students

  • Help students with academic advising, career planning, and college readiness

  • Lead workshops on social-emotional learning, stress management, and academic skills

  • Collaborate with teachers, administrators, and parents to address student needs

  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date counseling records

  • Support students during personal or academic crises

  • Assist in developing and implementing student support programs

Requirements

  • Master’s degree in School Counseling or related field

  • State certification or licensure as a school counselor

  • At least X years of experience working as a guidance counselor (preferred)

  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills

  • Ability to foster a supportive and inclusive environment

  • Experience with crisis intervention and conflict resolution

How to Apply
 Submit your resume and a cover letter explaining your experience and why you’re a great fit for [Company Name]. [Insert Application Link]

Let WorkScreen.io Handle It From Here

You’ve learned how to write a compelling, human-centered job description that attracts top-tier guidance counselor candidates. Now, it’s time to take the next step: finding the right fit for your school.

That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.

Why Use WorkScreen.io?
 WorkScreen.io helps you move beyond resumes and interview biases by providing a performance-based evaluation system for your candidates. Here’s how we can help:

1. Quickly Identify Your Most Promising Candidates

  • WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard. This makes it easier for you to spot top talent, saving time and ensuring you focus on the candidates who truly stand out.

2. Easily Administer One-Click Skill Tests

  • Assess candidates based on real-world ability, not just résumés and past experience. WorkScreen allows you to administer one-click skill assessments, so you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.

3. Eliminate Low-Effort Applicants

  • With WorkScreen, you can filter out low-effort candidates who use AI tools, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply” buttons. We help you focus on genuine, committed candidates—ensuring you avoid costly hiring mistakes.

4. Make Smarter, Data-Driven Hiring Decisions

  • Let WorkScreen do the heavy lifting when it comes to evaluating your candidates. With detailed performance analytics and data-driven insights, you can make hiring decisions with confidence.

How It Works

  1. Create Your Job Description: Start by writing your tailored job post (like the one you just created).

  2. Share the Link: Post your job on your preferred platforms and direct applicants to the WorkScreen evaluation.

  3. Review Results: Once candidates complete their evaluations, you’ll receive a performance-based ranking and detailed reports on their skills and qualifications.

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Guidance Counselor Job Description - Frequently Asked Questions

The average salary of a Guidance Counselor can vary depending on factors like location, experience, and the type of institution. Here’s a quick breakdown for recruiters to consider:

  • National Average (U.S.): The median salary for a high school guidance counselor is approximately $58,000 to $60,000
  • Experience Factor: Guidance counselors with 3+ years of experience can earn between $65,000 to $75,000 per year.
  • Location Impact: Salaries tend to be higher in urban or high-cost-of-living areas, such as New York or California, where they can exceed $80,000

It’s important to consider local salary benchmarks and provide a competitive compensation package to attract top talent.

When hiring for this role, key qualifications include:

  • Master’s degree in School Counseling or a related field
  • State certification or licensure as a school counselor (requirements vary by state)
  • Relevant experience working with high school students, including counseling, academic advising, and career guidance
  • Strong communication skills, with the ability to connect with students, staff, and parents
  • Knowledge of college admissions, career development, and social-emotional learning

You may also want to prioritize candidates with crisis intervention experience, particularly if your school faces emotional or mental health challenges.

Cultural fit is essential when hiring a guidance counselor who will be working closely with students and faculty. Look for candidates who:

  • Demonstrate a commitment to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where every student feels valued
  • Align with your school’s mission and values—ask them to share examples of how they’ve fostered a positive school culture in past roles
  • Exhibit strong interpersonal skills and empathy, particularly for working with diverse student populations

During interviews, ask questions that reveal their approach to working with students from varied backgrounds and how they handle conflict or difficult situations.

A successful guidance counselor should possess both technical and interpersonal skills, including:

  • Active listening and empathy to connect with students
  • Problem-solving abilities to address students’ academic, social, and emotional challenges
  • Crisis management skills to handle urgent situations effectively
  • Strong organizational skills to manage multiple cases, appointments, and documentation
  • Collaboration with faculty, parents, and other school staff to support student well-being
  • Familiarity with college admissions and career planning processes

During the hiring process, assess these skills through scenario-based questions or behavioral interview techniques.

To attract qualified and engaged candidates, ensure your job description includes:

  • Specific job titles that reflect the role’s responsibilities (e.g., “Experienced Guidance Counselor” vs. “Entry-Level Guidance Counselor”)
  • A clear and welcoming introduction to your school’s mission and culture
  • Salary transparency to set expectations and build trust
  • A breakdown of key responsibilities, including academic advising, emotional support, and career planning
  • Opportunities for growth and professional development
  • A respectful application process, including information on timelines and next steps
  • Include a video message from your team to give candidates a more personal view of the role and team dynamic

Remember, great candidates are looking for more than just the job—they’re looking for a place where they can make an impact.

Here are some common pitfalls to avoid during the hiring process:

  • Not defining the role clearly: Avoid vague job titles and unclear responsibilities. Be specific about what the candidate will do daily.
  • Ignoring cultural fit: Hiring for skills alone is important, but ensuring a candidate’s values align with your school’s mission and team culture is equally critical.
  • Not providing a clear, transparent hiring process: Keep candidates informed about where they are in the process and give them a timeline for feedback.
  • Failing to offer competitive compensation: If your salary is lower than average for the role and region, you may struggle to attract qualified candidates. Be sure your compensation package is in line with industry standards.

The role of a guidance counselor can be emotionally demanding, so it’s important to assess candidates for their ability to manage stress and emotional challenges. Look for candidates who:

  • Demonstrate resilience and the ability to maintain professionalism in difficult situations

  • Have experience in crisis counseling or emotional support roles

  • Are open to ongoing professional development in mental health and counseling techniques

  • Have strong coping mechanisms and self-care practices to avoid burnout

Ask candidates to describe how they’ve handled stressful or emotional situations in the past to gauge their preparedness.

 

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Author’s Details

Mike K.

Mike is an expert in hiring with a passion for building high-performing teams that deliver results. He specializes in streamlining recruitment processes, making it easy for businesses to identify and secure top talent. Dedicated to innovation and efficiency, Mike leverages his expertise to empower organizations to hire with confidence and drive sustainable growth.

Hire Easy. Hire Right. Hire Fast.

Stop wasting time on unqualified candidates. WorkScreen.io streamlines your hiring process, helping you identify top talent quickly and confidently. With automated evaluations , applicant rankings and 1-click skill tests, you’ll save time, avoid bad hires, and build a team that delivers results.

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