A professional coach helps you develop the skills and abilities to improve your job search skills. They can help you write a cover letter, review your resume and practice your interview skills. Over the past two years, I have noticed an increase in demand for career guidance. Much of this demand is closely related to the changing needs of workers caused by COVID-19 and The Great Resignation, which led 4.4 million people to leave their jobs.
From a career coach, you seek guidance that transcends mere job advice – you're after a transformative partnership that illuminates your professional path. The gemba walk checklist they offer involves not just surface-level assessments, but a deep dive into your aspirations, strengths, and areas for growth. A skilled career coach provides tailored strategies for achieving your goals, drawing from their expertise and experience. They offer constructive feedback, helping you refine your skills and polish your resume. But it's not just about the tangible steps; a great career coach also fosters confidence, aiding you in overcoming challenges and uncertainties. They serve as a sounding board for your ideas and a source of motivation during transitions. Ultimately, you desire a career coach who empowers you to unlock your potential, navigate career choices with clarity, and embark on a fulfilling professional journey.
This demand has also increased the demand for new coaches to enter the field. New experts are participating in this change and have even adapted traditional coaching practices to address the ever-changing career trajectory of clients. If your coach allows you to determine the direction of the session, imagine in advance what results you want and what relationship you want to have with the professional coach. I believe in being in charge when it comes to your career, spending time exploring your options, and talking to as many people as possible who can offer you valuable information about your career.
Now imagine investing a fraction of that time and money directly into changing your life and career for the better. Others will want you to bring tangible materials, such as your current resume or a list of your professional goals. Success in your chosen field will help you as a professional coach, because you'll have the tools that job seekers need to achieve success on their own. Lauren McAdams, career advisor and hiring manager for Resume Companion, said it's a big red flag if a professional coach asks for a large down payment.
Having a professional professional on your side is an invaluable resource when it comes to making the decision to jump into the job search market. Choosing a professional coach is a very personal decision, but it can change the trajectory of your life and help you achieve the things you've always dreamed of. But what do you do for your career? When it comes to your professional life, a proactive approach is best. Part of the confusing thing about expectations is that there are all kinds of people who call themselves “professional coaches” who aren't really coaches.
Like the fees charged by many professionals, the cost of hiring a professional coach varies depending on your experience and credentials, the field of specialty, the success rate, and the location of your office. A professional coach who is well known and respected in his field, such as a published author, may charge more than a coach who does not consider himself an expert. A professional advisor can help you clarify your situation by looking for ways to improve and also to evaluate if the best thing is to go somewhere else. While there are many qualified and experienced professional coaches, keep in mind that coaching is currently an unregulated industry, so just about anyone can call themselves a coach.
To maximize your chances of success, work with a professional advisor to help you create a roadmap that defines what to prioritize, what to learn and what objectives to achieve within that transition period.
