Unit 1: Information, Advice or Guidance – Principles and Practice

My role working to deliver information, advice and guidance.

Effective guidance workers are empathetic listeners who are sensitive to people’s needs and are able to work with a range of people who have varying requirements.

Information, advice and guidance workers help people think about their career, as well as learning and training opportunities. They may explain the options available to the people they work with, helping them to make informed choices about their future. They may offer information, advice and guidance (IAG) on education, training, health, housing, finance and work opportunities.

Adult guidance workers often work with people at times of transition, which have been brought about by things such as redundancy, health issues, or a desire or need to change career.

Read, listen and watch: Learn more about IAG roles and job profiles.

Emma Cayton is a learning engagement officer at the Training Brokers. As part of her role she works with learners (clients) providing information, advice and guidance. Read read what Emma has to say about her role in IAG.

“It is crucial to my role that I stay up to date with regards to the courses and services and be clear about what we can offer our learners. I also need to stay up to date and have knowledge of other agencies that can help and support our clients where we can’t. For example if a learner needs their functional skills qualification to support their career goals, and I know that this is a course we don’t offer. I would need to know where I can refer the learner to. At The Training Brokers we aim to give all clients access to up-to-date, comprehensive and impartial information, advice and guidance.

“When delivering IAG, I have to ensure it is personalised to each individual that I am working with. I do this by completing an initial assessment where I discuss their present and future plans and identify any barriers they may face. I use a variety of questioning techniques and my effective communication skills. I ask open questions, sometimes I may use images or provide information in alternative formats.

My role involves me to be extremely organised. I ensure I am prepared, with information leaflets to hand and all the tools I need for my job. I continue to learn and develop my skills, attending training sessions so that my knowledge is up to date.

What information and guidance do you provide?

At The Training Brokers we can provide information and sometimes advice about a number of things such as:

• TTB online courses
• Choosing the right course
• Fees and financial support
• Learning support
• Progression – information on what the learner can do next
• Referral – to other courses by other providers

Think about examples of information, advice or guidance that you provide in your organisation and practice. Submit a short explanation about your role within IAG and write this in the comment box. Don’t forget to take the time to introduce yourself to other learners taking part in the course.