Before splashing out on a career coach, do your research to make sure you're getting the best advice. Here's our guide to exploring your options
Hiring a career coach is a big decision. Julian Childs, who coaches people from postgraduates to senior managers, says that most people invest in coaching because of an accumulative process – perhaps realising that their job is not a good fit – or an event, such as redundancy.
Sometimes changes in the job or company also prompt coaching. Career management coach, Ruth Winden, says that many of her clients are "survivors of restructuring", who want help to get their next position.
But, with thousands of career professionals in the UK, finding the right one can be daunting. Here are some useful criteria for narrowing down your choice.
Do your research
Be as vigilant in your search for a coach as you would for job hunting. Check LinkedIn profiles to see client recommendations and ask people in your network for suggestions and referrals.
Valerie Rowles, a career management consultant, says that the advent of the Career Development Institute and its register of career professionals will make it easier to track down a local coach.
If you're studying, career coaching services are often available via your institution. It's also worth asking about career coaching within the professional associations for your industry.
Check accreditation and affiliations
Not all career coaches are accredited and this can act as an important differentiator, says Ruth Winden. Regular renewal procedures mean that accredited career coaches are up-to-date with best practice, which is important because the world of work and job searching is constantly changing.
Search by industry expertise or type of coaching
Some coaches have different areas of focus, such as working only with executives, or career changers. However, it isn't always necessary for your coach to have a specific sector background, although in-depth knowledge and a network in a particular industry can be an extra advantage. It's worth asking your coach about their type of experience, and where they achieve their best results.
Look for chemistry
Is your coach is accessible, friendly and wise? Trust is a huge part of the relationship, not just because you're sharing personal or confidential information, but also because coaching involves being challenged and supported. A coach should play back what you say and act as a sounding board, says Julian Childs.
You may find that you respond better to some communication styles than others, such as how much you want to be challenged. Some people prefer their feedback to be gentle, where others like direct straight-talking.
Ask for a no-obligation intake session
This works both ways: you have the opportunity to find out if your coach will be a good match, while they can get a better sense of your particular needs. For coaching to be successful, both parties need commitment from each other.
Be completely honest about what you hope to achieve and the coach can tell you if this is something they can help you with. Consider what form the coaching will take, such as workshops, meetings, or even virtual coaching via Skype, phone, webinars, etc.
Try before you buy
If you're unsure whether coaching is for you, try a low-cost workshop. A participant at one run by John Lees Associates said: "It broadens your mind. I found a skill cards exercise particularly useful, especially for those who don't know about their own skill set or where to start in a job search."
Manage your own expectations
Your coach can help you get "unstuck" and find the answers that are right for you. A coach helps you stay on track with your goals, explore options, and handle different elements of a job search – including rejection. Expect to go through a thought process to work out what's important to you, but a coach won't tell you what job to do.
This content is brought to you by Guardian Professional. To get more content and advice like this direct to your inbox, sign up for our weekly Careers update.
Career choices
Applications
Professional development
Interviews
CVs
Clare Whitmell
guardian.co.uk © 2013 Guardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More Feeds