Career coaching is a relatively new field. There have been other types of coaches for years and you can probably think of some of the more famous ones, but in the last few years, there has been a niche created for career coaches. If you are considering conducting a job search or need some input regarding managing your career, you may benefit from the services provided by a career coach.
This is the first in a four-part series of entries regarding the benefits of career coaching. As with other kinds of services, the extent of assistance provided to you by a career coach may vary, but in general, they can assist you with identifying who you are, clarifying your goals, and determining the fit between them. Some of the activities a coach may assist you with include gaining a better understanding of your skills, values and interests; identifying and researching occupations and industries of interest to you; and helping you determine the kinds of work activities that do and do not appeal to you or fit with your qualifications.
Additionally, the following questions may help you decide if you could benefit from some help:
1. Do you know "who" you are - professionally?
2. Are you clear about your career objectives?
3. Do your skills and qualifications match your objectives?
4. Do you know the industries in which you are interested and will be focusing your search?
Your career coach can also help you to develop a job search plan and the tools you will need to carry it out. Marketing is a very large part of a successful job search today and a coach can help you select the best marketing strategies to use. A coach can also be very valuable in helping you prepare for networking; which is also vital in today's job search.
Additionally, the following questions may help you decide if you could benefit from some help:
1. Do you understand that the job search process is similar to the sales process?
2. Do yo understand that YOU are the product you are selling and that you must effectively merchandise and promote that product?
3. Do you know how best to optimize your networking contacts and results?
4. Do you know which job advertisements to respond to and which to ignore?
Your career coach can help you determine your best job search strategy and the possible benefits of the various marketing strategies.
Check back for the continuing entries on this topic.
Mary Ann Davis is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in private practice providing coaching and counseling for life's transitions; including career change or job search, as well as loss of job, retirement planning, coping with an empty nest, and other life planning issues. She is certified as a Master Career Counselor by the National Career Development Association; a Life/Work Counselor by the National Employment Counseling Association; and is a Distance Credentialed Counselor. Please visit her web site at www.YourCareerPlan.com for more information.
To contact Mary Ann, please call (513) 665-4444 x3 and leave a personal and confidential message or send an email to YourCareerPlan@cinci.rr.com.
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