Do your homework before hiring a career coach to ensure you're getting the best advice. Here's a step-by-step guide to investigating your options.
Job Search Coach or Hiring a career coach is a significant investment. According to Julian Childs, who coaches people ranging from postgraduates to senior executives, most people invest in coaching as a result of a cumulative process – perhaps realizing that their job is not a good fit – or an event, such as redundancy.
Changes in the job or company can also prompt coaching. Ruth Winden, a career management coach, says that many of her clients are "survivors of restructuring" who need assistance finding their next job.
However, with thousands of career professionals in the UK, it can be difficult to find the right one. Here are some useful criteria to help you narrow down your options.
Conduct your research
Be as diligent in your search for a coach as you would in your job search. Examine LinkedIn profiles for client recommendations, and solicit recommendations and referrals from people in your network.
According to Valerie Rowles, a career management consultant, the Career Development Institute and its register of career professionals will make it easier to find a local coach.
Career coaching services are frequently available through your institution if you are a student. It's also a good idea to inquire about career coaching through your industry's professional associations.
Examine accreditation and affiliations.
According to Ruth Winden, not all career coaches are accredited, which can be a significant differentiator. Regular renewal procedures ensure that accredited career coaches are up to date with best practices, which is critical given the ever-changing nature of the workplace and job search.
Look for coaching based on your industry expertise or the type of coaching you need.
Some coaches specialize in certain areas, such as working only with executives or career changers. However, it is not always necessary for your coach to have a specific industry background, though in-depth knowledge and a network in a specific industry can be an added benefit. It's worthwhile to inquire about your coach's level of experience and where they achieve their best results.
Seek out chemistry
Is your coach approachable, friendly, and wise? Trust is an important component of the relationship, not only because you are sharing personal or confidential information, but also because coaching entails being challenged and supported. Julian Childs believes that a coach should act as a sounding board for what you say.
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You might discover that you respond better to certain communication styles than others, depending on how much you want to be challenged. Some people prefer gentle feedback, whereas others prefer direct, blunt communication.