Successful business man on blackboard
By Linda Van Valkenburgh, MS, CCMC, CJSS, CSMCS, CELDC
Perhaps you feel as though you are capable of more. Maybe you have not quite found the perfect job.
You are a hard worker, you are passionate, and you know you are capable of going after your dream. But, something is missing.
It is natural for fear to take over when you are thinking about taking a risk such as changing your career path. In addition, finding another job is not always easy – it depends on the job market and the position you hope to land.
This is where career coaches come in. They can guide you on your path of change, and even help you improve your performance in your current role. Here are several ways in which a career coach can help.
- Your Career Coach will help you recognize your value.
No one knows you better than you. However, you may not be completely aware of all your strengths and weaknesses as an individual. A Career Coach will help you uncover exactly where you can add the most value to a business.
Your self-image plays heavily into the jobs you choose to apply for, as well as the salary you command. A skilled Career Coach will help you identify what your worth is. As a result, your confidence will also begin to increase.
- Your Coach will help you uncover a career path that is right for you.
Do you know how you have chosen jobs in the past? Many people focus on earning potential, their experience, or how difficult a job might be. It is a rare individual that thinks about fulfilment and challenge.
Spending all your time in a job that does not fulfill you will ultimately make you unhappy. Your Career Coach will help you uncover a career path that is better suited to you personally.
- Your Coach will help you navigate change.
You may be ready to move on to your next career. Change can be exciting, but it can also make you feel uneasy. Uncertainty is part and parcel of taking your career in a new direction.
Your Career Coach can help you determine how to proceed with a career transition. They can also identify alternatives or backup plans in case the transition does not go exactly as planned. They will map out a career path that will take you in the direction of your goals.
- Your Coach will keep you accountable.
Change is often much harder when it is self-directed. When there is someone partnering up with you to make it happen, you will be more motivated to keep going.
Your coach will help you stay on track with your goals and guide you in the right direction. They will keep in close contact with you to ensure you are doing the right things to move forward in your career.
- Working with a Career Coach can make you happier.
This may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of working with a coach. Your Career Coach has a definite objective to see you succeed in your career.
At the same time, a Career Coach can also help you achieve better balance in your life. They can offer an outside perspective and identify stressors and imbalances in your life to help you focus and ultimately live happier.
Being well-adjusted, happy and optimistic will help you put your best foot forward while taking steps to make career and life changes.
Conclusion
Your Career Coach can serve as a mirror, reflecting to you your strengths and worth as an individual. They will help you find your confidence, and find a career that is better matched to your personality, ability, and goals.
Many people who work with a Career Coach often say they wish they had started sooner. Career Coaches have a great deal to offer, and can help you clarify your next steps and things about your tendencies and nature you may not have even been aware of.
Let’s get to work!
Linda
If you have questions about your executive career search, please contact me at 203-323-9977 or [email protected]