Diagnosis of vocational competency of women with career interruptions and measures to support their career re-establishment

The goal of this research was to develop an objective vocational capacity assessment tool, with an aim of helping women with career interruptions to identify the true level of their vocational preparedness compared to the standards required in their preferred occupation and then resume their course of continuous career development by establishing a personalized career development plan. A pilot testing was conducted in order to examine the validity and reliability of the diagnostic tools and make modifications if necessary. Then, a user manual for the diagnostic tool was created in order to enable individual women to design their own customized career development plans by comparing their current vocational competency with the competencies required in the labor market, as well as with the competencies of women who experienced career interruptions but are currently employed in a related area. Next, based on the outcomes of the diagnosis, suggestions were offered to career development assistants and job consultants at the center on ways to enhance the efficacy of the support provided to their clients. Finally, policy measures were suggested for the government in regards to assisting women with interrupted career paths.