Career coaching services are a type of individual counseling service in which a career counselor will meet with a client for the purpose of providing career advice. This type of service is usually used by adults who want to change careers or go back to school, for example. Some high schools or even colleges may offer career coaching services to their students as well.
An aptitude assessment will often be the first step in career coaching services. The individual seeking career advice will generally be given a questionnaire to fill out, which will ask questions regarding personality, working style, interests, and other questions that will help to pin down the type of working environment and nature of work at which one would be most successful. This questionnaire is not the final word, obviously, but it can be a good way to start providing a direction in an otherwise directionless career search.
The person who is providing career coaching services might also ask the client questions regarding goals or hopes for the future. If the client has a specific career path in mind, the career coach may then be able to provide advice as to how to achieve that goal. Career coaching services are generally not provided for free except for students, but many people find that they are worth it if it helps them go back to school or to follow a new career path.
Advice may include specific items, such as going back to school to obtain a degree or a certificate, or instructions on submitting particular job applications. Advice may also include less specific techniques, such as improving networking skills, creating or improving an existing resume and cover letter, or attending job fairs in order to submit a resume and meet people. A career counselor may also be able to discuss specific skills that one will need to develop in order to become successful at a new career.
Career coaching services may also refer to a type of work mentor, who may work with new employees to get them started on the right track in a career. These are not often referred to as career coaching services, but it does provide a great way for an employee in a new work environment to work one on one with someone and learn how the company works. This method can also help one to begin networking and making contacts in the field.
