In today’s workforce, the average person will have four to five careers. This means you’ll jump between positions, companies or industries more than once – potentially taking away that straight line of career progression that past generations followed. The responsibility for charting your career path is firmly in your court, and that path isn’t always clear.
With no single path forward, it can be tough to know what the best next step is or how to advance your career. A career coach can help you create a clear vision, explore your interests and skillset, as well as set meaningful goals to navigate your way forward.
What is career coaching?
Think of a career coach like a personal trainer for your work life. A good coach can help you better articulate your goals and build a plan for reaching them. Career coaching can (and should!) look different for each person but can include:
- Defining your career goals
- Identifying roles that best fit your interests and experience
- Building a strong resume
- Preparing for interviews
- Strategizing for promotions
- Building your personal brand
Ultimately, your career coach should provide clarity and help define tactics to help uncover and move past blockers.
Who needs a career coach?
Anyone can benefit from a career coach – whether you’re a recent college grad, a mid-career professional feeling stuck or someone reentering the workforce after time away. If you feel like you’re standing at a crossroads, a coach could help determine the next right step.
But career coaching isn’t just for transition, it’s also for people who know exactly where they want to go. If you’re looking for support to fine tune your skills or advance more quickly, coaches are a great tool for growth.
How do I know it’s time for coaching?
While many professionals pursue career coaching support when they’re in times of potential transition, it’s never a bad time to invest in yourself. We’ve seen people at all points in their career benefit. It might be time to inquire if:
- You’re feeling stuck, uninspired or unfulfilled in your current role
- You’re unsure of your next move
- Your leadership skills or confidence needs a boost
- You want to grow faster and make a meaningful next move
- You’re not landing the job
But know that career coaching isn’t a silver bullet. Just like a personal trainer they can’t do the workout for you, your career coach can’t advance your career on their own. Your commitment and energy for investing in yourself is the single most important factor to growth.
If you’re ready to take that first step, reach out. We’re looking forward to walking alongside you as you achieve your goals.