Finding the right career guidance can be challenging. While many professionals offer coaching services, not all are equipped to provide effective, meaningful advice. Based on insights from a network of trusted advisors, here are the essential attributes to look for when selecting a career coach.
Five Qualities of an Effective Career Advisor
When evaluating a potential career coach, an individual who is struggling or seeking a significant professional change should prioritize substance over style. The most impressive advisors share these five characteristics:
1. They Are Certified
Anyone can adopt the title of "career coach." Many individuals who were unable to find employment during a recession simply rebranded themselves as coaches. To ensure you are working with a qualified professional, ask about their degrees and affiliations. Vetting organizations can also provide a list of pre-screened coaches.
2. They Are Experts in a Specific Trade
Your career advisor should be proficient in a tangible field. A coach who claims to be a leadership expert but has never led a team lacks credible, real-world experience. True expertise in a specific area is more valuable than generalized advice.
3. They Are Flexible
Many traditional coaches operate on rigid terms that may not suit a working professional. Seek out an advisor who understands the constraints of a full-time job and can accommodate your schedule, such as offering calls outside of standard business hours.
4. They Are Assessment-Agnostic
Some coaches rely heavily on personality or career assessments, from astrological charts to the MBTI and The Birkman Method. While these tools can provide some personal insight, you are paying for the coach's expertise and customized guidance, not the results of an assessment you could take on your own.
5. They Live Their Values
Authenticity is crucial in a coaching relationship. A coach who preaches one philosophy but lives another is not a credible guide. Don’t hesitate to ask a potential coach about their own personal and professional journey. The best advisors apply their own principles to their lives.
A Critical Question Before You Hire a Coach
Before investing in a career coach, consider your motivations. Is this a proactive step, or is it a form of procrastination or denial? Sometimes, the resources allocated for a coach could be more effectively used for personal wellness. A week away from work and other responsibilities can often provide more clarity and perspective at a lower cost.