National Career Guidance Awards 2024-2026

1.1. Career counselling tool “Talent Classification Cards”

Author: Kristīne Kalniņa, Career counsellor, Jelgava Secondary School of Technology

National Career Guidance Award for outstanding performance in the implementation of careers education and counselling activities.

Description of practice

Talent Classification Cards are a practical and versatile tool designed to support career development and self‑exploration by helping individuals identify and understand their talents and strengths. The tool is suitable for a wide audience, including both young people and adults.
For young users, the cards make it easier to recognise the skills needed for a particular career choice, and can also be helpful when preparing CVs and motivation letters.
For adults, the cards provide an opportunity to reassess their abilities and understand how these can be applied in their current or future workplace, supporting both career growth and transitions.

The aim of the tool is to structure the talent identification process and make self‑reflection more accessible, while promoting a clear link between personal strengths and specific career or educational opportunities. The card format offers a positive, strengths‑based approach, providing an engaging and visually appealing alternative to traditional tests and questionnaires.

The cards are grounded in career development theories and the author’s professional counselling experience. Each card includes a concise and inspiring description of a talent, and a detailed user guide ensures easy application both individually and in group settings. The cards have been piloted at Jelgava Secondary School of Technology and introduced to career counsellors in Jelgava and surrounding areas. Their integration into the school’s career education programme and positive user feedback confirms the practical effectiveness of the tool, contributing to greater self‑awareness, confidence, and purposeful career planning.

Target groups: secondary school pupils, students, adults

Link: https://kristinekarjera.id.lv/konsultesanasriki