Skip to main content
Certified Digital Career Strategist CDCS

Certified Digital Career Strategist (CDCS)

This Course is available as a self-study or in a 3-week live series.
Next live series scheduled for July 9th, July 16th, July 23rd, July 30th, Aug 6th. Time: 4:30-6:00 PM ET.

What is a CDCS?

LinkedIn has become an indispensable part of successful job searches. That’s why becoming a LinkedIn expert will dramatically improve the value you offer your clients by giving them the edge to succeed in a crowded marketplace. Our certification, CDCS, will deliver this training with the most up to date information.

The Certified Digital Career Strategist course is a fast-paced, training led by LinkedIn expert Robin Reshwan. This program offers a comprehensive framework for providing LinkedIn coaching and support during a client’s career search with a 360 degree perspective on how the platform is used by job seekers, recruiters, hiring managers, and network connections. Register now to ensure your LinkedIn knowledge is up to date and add social proof of your expertise for future coaching endeavors. The program has three sessions that will cover back-end privacy and settings, profile components, and robust searching tools.

This certification is for you if…

  • You want to deepen your knowledge of the key components of a successful LinkedIn profile
  • You need to deliver effective LinkedIn coaching to your clients that incorporates recent changes to the platform
  • You want to better understand how to use LinkedIn to achieve career transition goals
Certified Digital Career Strategist Program
Live Series: $895

Self-Study: $795
  • Participants in the CDCS Program receive:

  • 9 CEUs
  • LIVE or recorded sessions with our expert program director, Robin Reshwan

  • TOTAL of 7.5 instruction hours

  • NEW Immediate access to video replay following live course sessions

  • Access to the community! CDCS program participants will receive a one year membership to the CDCS community. This includes access to Robin for any questions and updates on any significant changes to the LinkedIn platform and its functionality.

Membership Required

Participants in the CDCS Program Receive

  • Five Sessions – The program is taught in 90-minute fast-paced sessions, where you will learn the most current practices from your course instructor, a Certified Professional Résumé Writer, nationally recognized Careers writer and a CEO of both a career coaching and a recruiting company. You will learn current best practices for using LinkedIn to achieve career transition goals with the 360-degree perspective from a coach, recruiter and hiring executive.

  • Comprehensive Content – Created to meet the needs of both entry level users of LinkedIn and more experienced coaches, this program will cover all the key components of a successful LinkedIn profile as well as present lesser known strategies to add depth to your services or address the needs of complex clients.

  • A Way to Stay Current on Changes to LinkedIn – For the year following your certification, you will receive notifications of changes and updates to the LinkedIn platform and effective best practices.

  • Differentiation & Social Proof – Feel confident that you are ready to deliver effective LinkedIn coaching to your clients with our end-of-program learning assessment, then show off what you have learned! You will receive a certificate and logo for your website, plus designation as a Certified Digital Career Strategist. (Certification valid for one year, updates provided to you as the platform changes)

  • PARWCC Offers an annual Continuing Education program for CDCS holder that includes continued access to the instructor and forums. Typically offered each Fall for $95.00.

Course Content

The five 90-minute sessions will be available for live participation scheduled for one session per week for five weeks in a row. Each session will have instructor-led training, followed by group Q&A with time allotted at the end for more detailed questions and demonstrations. Self Study Program provides instant access to the most current training sessions.

Session 1

LinkedIn Profile Settings and Components.

Integrating lessons learned from a Recruiter’s and Hiring Manager’s perspective, uncover the settings and most important components of a LinkedIn profile that allow your clients to be found by their target audience. 

Handouts:

  • LinkedIn Coaching Session Checklist: Outline of what to cover in a session
  • LinkedIn Key Concepts Document: Client discussion topics to prepare for expectation setting and LinkedIn coaching success

Session 2

Create Irresistible Profiles for your Clients.

Create LinkedIn profile content that makes an impact during a job search. This includes strategies and prompts for using Generative AI tools (CoPilot, ChatGPT, etc) for content creation.

Handouts

  • PowerPoint with strategies and samples for writing effective LinkedIn Headlines, About, and additional content for profiles
  • Recruiter’s assessments of various profiles
  • Guide for clients to prepare for a LinkedIn coaching session

Session 3

Maximize Job Searching and Networking on LinkedIn.

See firsthand how LinkedIn Recruiter and an applicant tracking system (ATS) look to a Recruiter and Hiring Manager during a job search. Robin will share her tips on how your clients can stand out when using LinkedIn to apply and network during their job search.

Handouts:

  • PowerPoint with LinkedIn Recruiter and ATS (Lever) screenshots to visualize how profiles and applications are “seen” from a recruiter’s perspective
  • LinkedIn coaching strategies for common job search challenges – new graduate with no experience, returning to work professional, and career changer
  • List of popular and niche job boards
  • Sample outreach messages for networking and job searching

Session 4

Impact of Generative AI and Online Presence.

Help your clients to be found by Recruiters beyond LinkedIn. Understand why and when Recruiters use other job boards, like Indeed and Handshake, as well as other recruiting search tools and practices. Expertise in these areas will help you to offer more comprehensive and effective coaching services – differentiating you from other Career Services Professionals and Coaches.

Handouts:

  • Worksheet for creating a content strategy for yourself or clients.
  • Generative AI prompts for content creation while job seeking.

Session 5

Ask Me Anything.

Certified Digital Career Strategists offer more than a LinkedIn profile template. Effective LinkedIn coaching requires real-world customization. The knowledge gained in the CDCS program will enhance your ability to create effective job search strategies and deliver best-in-class career services. 

This whole session is dedicated to your real-time questions that only a Recruiter or company Hiring Manager can answer. As an experienced VP of Talent, Robin makes corporate hiring decisions every day – guiding the practices of Recruiters and advising Hiring Managers and Executives on how to attract and select top talent. In this session, she will help you to better understand how corporate hiring processes work and how to apply those lessons to help your students and clients find success.

Robin Reshwan

Meet Your Instructor – Robin Reshwan

Robin Reshwan is a Certified Professional Résumé Writer (CPRW), Career Strategist, and the CEO of CS Advising (career strategy services) and CS Search & Staffing (recruiting services). A nationally recognized expert, Robin is a Careers contributor for U.S. News & World Report and an active voice in the LinkedIn community, with more than 15,000 followers. Her companies have been honored by LinkedIn for excellence in social engagement, coaching, and recruiting.

A trusted partner to LinkedIn, Robin is among a select group of coaches invited to participate in pilot programs to test and shape new platform features. She is a frequent presenter on LinkedIn best practices, delivering sessions for leading corporations, business schools, universities, and alumni associations nationwide.

In addition to her career strategy work, Robin leads a dynamic staffing team at CS Search & Staffing, using advanced recruiting, job posting, and paid marketing tools on LinkedIn to identify top talent for fast-growth companies across the U.S. Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, Robin has overseen recruiting teams in more than 30 major markets, with expertise spanning technology, accounting and finance, marketing, scientific and Ph.D. fields, legal, manufacturing, and operations.

Robin brings a unique combination of coaching and real-world recruiting experience to the Certified Digital Career Strategist program, ensuring participants gain insider strategies, up-to-date LinkedIn insights, and practical tools to elevate their clients’ success in today’s digital job market.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the required text for the program, and is it available in Kindle or audio format?

Rest assured, there are no additional costs for required texts. All readings will be provided in PDF format, free of charge. The material will include coaching-type business case articles, peer-reviewed journal articles, self-reflection activities, and a research book (my book). You can choose readings based on your interests, and all materials will be accessible in PDF format.

What deliverables are required for certification?

The program includes engaging deliverables such as quizzes for each module (open notes/open resources), short answers, self-assessments, and other fun activities. The goal is to make the learning experience enriching and enjoyable. No timed tests or multiple-choice assessments will be administered, and an oral test option is available upon request.

Will sessions be recorded, and can I access them if I miss a session?

Yes, all classes will be recorded using Zoom and uploaded to the portal. You can review the sessions at your convenience, whether you attend live or watch the replay.

What support and accessibility options are available?

Accessibility is a priority. If you need accommodations, please email me at [email protected]. Having been diagnosed with a learning disability myself, I understand the importance of accommodating individual needs. I am committed to providing a supportive learning environment and am readily accessible throughout the program. ‘Office Hours’ will be available for additional support.

Accessibility Statement

I am committed to creating an inclusive learning environment. If you require accommodations, please email me at [email protected]. I have personal experience with a learning disability and have successfully coached clients and taught adults with various learning needs. Your success in this program is my #1 priority

Is there any cost associated with the suggested optional texts?

While I may suggest some favorite texts, they are entirely optional to purchase and will not be required for exams or homework assignments.

When will the online portal be populated with course content?

The online portal is targeted to be populated with course syllabus by Sunday, January 28, ahead of our start on Thursday, February 1st. No advance work is required.

How can I approach my employer to fund this program as part of my professional development?

Approaching your employer for professional development support can be a strategic step. Here’s a sample email template to initiate the conversation:

Sample Email Draft

Subject: Proposal for Professional Development Investment – Certified Student Career Coach Program

Dear [Supervisor’s Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to express my enthusiasm about an upcoming professional development opportunity that aligns seamlessly with my role and responsibilities at [Your Company/Organization Name].

I have come across the Certified Student Career Coach Program, which offers comprehensive training in career coaching and leadership development. Given the increasing focus on talent development and mentorship within our organization, I believe this program will not only enhance my skills but also contribute significantly to our team’s success.

The program, led by Dr. Natascha F. Saunders, comes highly recommended, and I am confident that the insights gained will directly impact our approach to employee career development and advancement.

To make the most of this opportunity, I am seeking your support to cover the program fees as part of our ongoing commitment to professional growth. The benefits of this investment will extend beyond my personal development, positively influencing our team’s ability to guide and support employees/students / alumni / community effectively.

Here is a breakdown of the estimated costs:

Program Fee: [Insert Cost]

Duration: 4 weeks

Expected Outcomes: [List specific outcomes relevant to your job]

I believe this investment is a strategic move for our team, and I am more than willing to discuss how the learnings can be shared and applied within our organization upon completion of the program.

Thank you for considering my request, and I look forward to the possibility of contributing even more effectively to our team’s success with the enhanced skills gained through this program.

Best regards,

[Your Full Name]
[Your Position]
[Your Contact Information]

What do I gain from this program? Will it be beneficial to me?

Thank you for considering our Certified Student Career Coach Program. We support this program, its curriculum, and the vibrant community it fosters. Drawing from my experience coaching in diverse sectors and serving students globally, we’ve crafted a foundational program comprising four modules.

While this isn’t an exhaustive deep dive, it’s a concentrated four-week introductory journey designed to address the foundational needs of coaching students.

To determine if this program aligns with your goals, consider creating a mini-rubric:

1: Course Description Resonance:

Review the course description – does it resonate with your coaching aspirations and objectives?

2: Weekly Subject Matter:

Examine each week’s subject matter – can you benefit from expanding your knowledge in these specific areas?

Curriculum Integration:

Assess your ability to integrate the curriculum into your coaching practice – does it align with your coaching philosophy?

Community Building:

Are you seeking to build a community and connect with like-minded individuals focused on student coaching?

Personalized Measuring Tool:

Utilize points 1-4 and any additional criteria important to you as a personalized measuring tool.

Extra: Watch Natascha’s video as she talks through what is covered in each module: https://youtu.be/csTkRf-MeTk?si=uaRhUSUC_E2T5Fyb

Remember, this program is a focused and foundational step towards enhancing your skills in coaching students. It’s about what aligns best with your professional development journey. Feel free to reach out if you have more specific questions or need further clarification.

I live overseas, outside the United States, would this focus mostly on the United States?

While I am based in the United States, my extensive experience as a former Goodwill Ambassador to Gambia and my service to students from over 100+ countries provide me with a unique perspective on the intricacies and needs of students globally. It’s important to note that my viewpoint is U.S.- based, yet the program is designed to be inclusive and offer insights that transcend countries.

Here are some additional considerations:

1: Global Relevance:

A portion of the content transcends geographic boundaries. Concepts like understanding vocational theories and certain personality traits, challenges, and strategies can be universally applicable.

2: Global Career Perspectives:

Many students reaching out for coaching aspire to work, intern and study globally. I have coached students pursuing roles in international organizations such as the World Bank, United Nations, many organizations with international office locations, and non-profits, including those in very rural areas. Our perspective in this foundational course broadens to acknowledge diverse student backgrounds and career goals across the world.

3: U.S. Opportunities

We have seen a rise in students from various countries seeking opportunities in the United States. Statista reports that 1,057,188 international students were studying in the U.S. in 2022/23. Regardless of your location, chances are you’ll encounter students aspiring to study or work in the U.S., and this program provides insights into their expectations.

4: International Student Dynamics

I, with experience coaching and teaching international students, grasp the intricacies of navigating careers between their home countries and the U.S. As a consultant and facilitator for organizations in 142 countries, I bring a wealth of global perspectives. With over 10 years of teaching at Northeastern University, Global Pathway Program (ranked #1 Most International Students, US Student and Exchange Visitor Program 2020), as well as currently working at Harvard Kennedy School of Government with a diverse and thriving international student community – I am committed to serving coaches who serve ALL students.

5: Exploration of Global Career Nuances

While this program does not delve deeply into complex topics like H1B, OPT/CPT, and Visas, it acknowledges these opportunities. Peer collaboration offers the chance to explore these nuances further.

6: Global Network

Our Professional Association of Resume Writers & Career Coaches (PARW/CC) includes members from various countries, reflecting a growing global presence.

7: Hands-on Learning & Adaptability

The program encourages hands-on learning where your expertise contributes. If discussions or data are U.S.- centric, you’re encouraged to proactively explore and contribute insights from your country. The program aims to empower you to adapt coaching practices to your specific context, making them relevant and impactful in your region.

Remember, this is a foundational 4-week program fostering a collaborative learning environment, and your active participation ensures the curriculum becomes a tailored and enriching experience, irrespective of your location.

Thank each of you for considering joining the Certified Student Career Coach Program. I look forward to the opportunity of working together to ensure your success!

Best regards,

Dr. Natascha F. Saunders

Have more questions? If so, email: [email protected]

Why PARWCC? Voices from our Community

The CPRW Certification is the benchmark for being a recognized résumé writer.

Debraca R Testimonial

Investing in the continuous training and education provided by PARWCC makes me a trusted advisor…My hobby turned into a 5-figure business in one year because I invested in my education and received the career coaching credential from PARWCC.

Debraca R.

Agape Career Counseling Group
Dustin B Testimonial

PARWCC’s extensive library of resources, networking opportunities, and career services insights have significantly enhanced my ability to deliver exceptional services to my clients…and equipped me to help job seekers achieve their career goals with confidence and expertise.

Dustin B.

417 Resume Renovators
PARWCC Code of Ethics Badge

I was fortunate to be a part of the 1st cohort of the Certified Student Career Coach (CSCC), and Dr. Saunders’ expertise, homework exercises, and her breadth of resources enhanced my understanding of the material by providing practical hands-on exercises.

Towanda W.

Coach for New Life
Tali S Testimonial

I’ve gotten so much value out of being part of this community! I love the monthly networking calls and webinars included in the membership, and attending the in-person Thrive! conference was truly a highlight of the year for me.

Tali S.

Bold Career Talk

    Join our community and become a Certified Digital Career Strategist today!