So, you’ve decided it’s time for a career coach—congratulations! That’s a big step. Maybe you’re stuck in a job that feels like an endless Zoom meeting, or perhaps you’re eyeing a promotion but have no idea how to make it happen. Whatever your reason, finding the right career coach can be a game-changer.
But how do you find someone who actually knows what they’re doing (and isn’t just some self-proclaimed “LinkedIn guru”)? This guide will walk you through the process, with some key tips and some potential red flags to look out for.
Career Coach, Counselor, or Mentor—What’s the Difference?
Before we dive into finding the perfect coach, let’s clear up a common confusion: career coaches, counselors, and mentors are not the same thing.
- Career Coach: Helps you figure out where you want to go in your career and gives you the tools to get there—whether that’s job search strategies, leadership skills, or dealing with office politics. (Spoiler alert: It’s mostly about staying sane while navigating corporate chaos.)
- Career Counselor: More focused on the emotional side of things—helping you work through challenges in professional relationships, confidence issues, and overall career satisfaction.
- Mentor: A more experienced person in your field who offers advice, wisdom, and possibly some horror stories from their own career. (Think: That one boss who actually cared about your growth instead of just their KPIs.)
Knowing which type of support you need can save you from wasting time and money on the wrong help.
What Makes a Good Career Coach? (And How to Avoid the Bad Ones)
Not all career coaches are created equal. Some have years of experience and industry knowledge, while others might just be good at taking inspirational selfies for Instagram. Here’s what you should look for:
1. Experience That Actually Matters
A great career coach should have experience relevant to your field. Many specialize in working with knowledge workers—people in management consulting, financial services, pharmaceuticals, life sciences, engineering, and corporate roles like Finance, IT, HR, and Supply Chain. If they’ve never worked with people in your industry, they might not fully understand your challenges.
(Unless, of course, you want a “career coach” who tells you to manifest success while burning sage. In that case, proceed as you were.)
2. Credentials That Go Beyond a Fancy LinkedIn Title
Unlike doctors or lawyers, career coaches don’t have a standardized qualification system. But the good ones will have recognized credentials from reputable organizations. Look for accredited coaches with qualifications from respected institutions, such as the International Society of Coaching Psychology (ISCP), university-level coaching courses, or industry-recognized certifications. If someone’s only qualification is ‘I changed jobs once and now I help others do the same,’ run.
3. A Coaching Style That Matches Your Personality
Some coaches are all about structure and step-by-step strategies, while others take a more fluid, open-ended approach. You need to find someone who fits your learning style. Prefer clear action plans? Look for someone who offers structured goal-setting and accountability. Want a more exploratory approach? A coach who focuses on self-reflection might be your best bet.
If you want a career coach who just nods and agrees with everything you say, you might as well save your money and talk to your dog instead!
4. Communication That Actually Helps
A great career coach is a great communicator. They should ask insightful questions, provide constructive feedback, and be brutally honest when necessary—without making you cry, of course. If a coach just repeats vague motivational phrases and never challenges your thinking, you’re not getting your money’s worth.
5. Availability That Works With Your Life
Most people looking for career coaching are busy professionals, so flexibility is key. Many coaches suggest meeting every two weeks if you’re employed, and possibly weekly if you’re between jobs. A well-established coach with a strong reputation may have a busy schedule, which is a positive sign—but it’s also important to find someone whose availability aligns with your needs.
Feeling stuck in your career? Take the Mid-Career Audit and get a roadmap for your next steps. Start your assessment here.
Should You Work With a Local or Virtual Career Coach?
With remote work becoming the norm, many career coaches now offer virtual sessions. This means you’re no longer limited to coaches in your city—you can work with top professionals from around the world. Virtual coaching offers flexibility and convenience, especially if you have a busy schedule.
However, if you prefer in-person interaction and local networking connections, a coach in your area might be a better fit. Additionally, job markets, application processes, and workplace cultures vary across countries. A coach with knowledge of your specific job market—whether it’s CV length expectations, job-hopping norms, or industry standards—can provide valuable insights tailored to your region.
What Happens in a Career Coaching Session?
If you’ve never worked with a career coach before, you might be wondering what to expect. A typical session includes discussing your goals, identifying challenges, and creating an action plan. Your coach may ask thought-provoking questions to help you gain clarity, provide feedback on your resume or LinkedIn profile, or guide you through interview prep. The goal is to leave each session with practical steps to move forward—because talking about change is great, but actually making it happen is even better.
Watch Out for These Red Flags
Even if a career coach looks good on paper, they might not be the right fit. Here’s how to spot the ones to avoid:
- They Promise Unrealistic Results. If someone says they’ll land you a six-figure job in a month, they’re lying. Career coaching is about strategy and growth, not magic.
- They Don’t Have a Clear Coaching Process. A professional coach should outline their approach and what you can expect from the sessions. If they just wing it every time, you’re better off reading career blogs (like this one).
- They Lack Any Real Testimonials. If no one has ever said, “This coach changed my life,” then… well, they probably won’t change yours either.
When Should You Hire a Career Coach?
A lot of people assume career coaching is only for job seekers. Not true! Here’s when you should seriously consider hiring a coach:
- You’re Stuck in Your Career. You’ve been at the same job for years and don’t know what’s next.
- You Want a Promotion but Keep Getting Passed Over. A coach can help you develop the right skills, leadership presence, and career strategy to move up.
- You’re Making a Career Change. A career coach can help you figure out your next move and guide you through a strategic transition.
- You Hate Your Job (But Have No Idea What Else to Do). A good coach will help you uncover what really motivates you and explore new career paths.
How to Actually Find a Career Coach
Now that you know what to look for, here’s how to find a coach who’s worth your time:
- Define Your Goals. Are you looking for a job change, a promotion, or leadership development? Knowing your goals will help you find the right coach.
- Research Coaches Online. Check their websites, LinkedIn profiles, and reviews to see if they specialize in what you need.
- Check Their Qualifications. Look for certifications and real-world experience.
- Read Testimonials. Happy clients are a good sign.
- Book a Consultation. Most coaches offer a free intro call—use it to see if they’re a good fit for you.
- Assess Their Flexibility. Make sure their schedule aligns with yours.
Tired of spinning your wheels? Schedule a 30 minute meeting with me today to reimagine your career. Get expert career coaching that actually makes a difference.
Final Thoughts
Finding a career coach doesn’t have to be overwhelming, but it does require some research. Look for someone with the right experience, a solid coaching approach, and a communication style that works for you. And most importantly—don’t settle for just anyone. The right coach can be the difference between staying stuck and making your next big move.
So, are you ready to take control of your career? If the answer is “yes,” you know what to do next.
