While lifelong guidance has clear benefits for individuals, its underlying strength lies in how systems are designed to ensure those benefits reach everyone according to their needs. Research and practice across Europe show that guidance is not only about equipping individuals with the skills and capacity to make meaningful decisions in an ever-changing labour market and learning context, but also about creating structures and standards embedded across sectors that make quality services and learning opportunities accessible to all.
From individual benefits to system-wide impact
Drawing on years of work,Cedefop's extensive research on the needs of different user groups across key life stages and transition points demonstrates the universal relevance of quality career guidance. Studies focusing on youth (Cedefop, 2010), middle-aged workers (Cedefop, 2008c), older adults (Cedefop, 2015), economic migrants (Cedefop, 2014a), and humanitarian migrants (Cedefop, 2017) as well as analyses of mid-career worker narratives (Cedefop, 2014b) and individuals with lower skill levels or fewer qualifications (Cedefop, 2016b) show that tailored guidance delivered in diverse formats and contexts can respond effectively to varied needs while strengthening career management skills, resilience and adaptability.
At the same time, strengthening systems and policies and establishing feedback loops remains more critical than ever to ensure these benefits reach all users. Cedefop has produced three volumes on Monitoring and evaluation in lifelong guidance to provide policy makers and stakeholders with information and tools to collaborate on quality assurance and evidence-based approaches for considering outputs, outcomes and effectiveness in lifelong guidance (LLG). Other related work has focused on inputs required for greater professionalisation across contexts, including practitioner standards in public employment services, schools, chambers of commerce and community settings including using existing and evolving digital technologies.
Navigating and shaping change in uncertain times
Enabling individuals to develop the skills needed to navigate uncertainty and change is one of the most critical benefits of lifelong guidance in today’s world of work. As artificial intelligence reshapes industries and the world of work, the green transition creates new jobs and renders others obsolete, and demographic shifts alter labour market dynamics, the ability to anticipate and navigate transitions in a meaningful way becomes vital.
The ripple effects of LLG extend beyond personal career success. When people feel confident about navigating change and uncertainty, they may be more likely to engage in learning and work, support their peers, contribute to communities, and seize opportunities aligned with their values. For society, effective guidance interventions can help reduce unemployment, decrease social exclusion, improve productivity and strengthen social cohesion.
By investing in strong lifelong guidance systems, underpinned by clear professional standards and accessible, person-centred services, countries can ensure that guidance supports both individuals and society in navigating change.
