Career Coaching
Do you even need a career coach? What is a career coach? What do they do?
This article, which appeared in USA Today in April 2011, might shed some light:
This page will tell you mainly how I work, but I invite you to call me with your concerns and issues. If I can't help you, I can at least direct you to other resources.
How I Work
Our first session, about 2 hours (in person or over Skype), is composed of ANALYSIS and STRATEGY. This is where we look at:
- Where you've been: what has worked for you and what hasn't
- Where you are now: what you want, what you need, what you bring to the table
- Where you want to go: goals, steps and methods/techniques to get you there
- What's holding you back: beliefs or limitations impeding you
- Where your power comes from: motivations, tools and supports you have to overcome what's holding you back
I combine two approaches:
- Traditional:
Identifies personality — the foundation of your strengths — and all the
career indicators that flow out from it: values, interests and skills
- Progressive:
Identifies your "career non-negotiables," the things you will not
compromise on, without which your career would be much less satisfying.
This approach comes from Dr. Marty Nemko.
Many people only need that initial session to get going again, but I find most benefit from another two or three sessions, and in some cases, I've met with clients for as many as six or seven sessions. It just depends on you.
What to Expect
BEFORE THE INITIAL SESSION
When you book a session with me, I will send you an in-depth questionnaire and links to a few assessments. The assessments are
optional except for personality, as having this information helps me
tailor all my work to you. I ask that you complete and return the questionnaire and assessment results prior to our first session.
DURING THE INITIAL SESSION
We will go over the questionnaire, drilling down on several of the questions, generating ideas, looking at obstacles, brainstorming solutions, and formulating "homework" (next steps) that will be fun and meaningful to you. You'll emerge with a list of items that will move you forward in your career search or job hunt. (Of course, before you leave, I will ensure you have all the tools and understanding to carry them out.)
Maybe all you need is guidance on "how to." Whether it's a how to conduct an informational interview,
connect with fellow professionals, or get the attention of your target
employer, I can guide you to resources.
We will also look at any psychological issues that might be holding you back and problem-solve with strategies to address them. Career counseling is not therapy but it has therapeutic aspects. If it makes sense for you to work with a licensed MFT either before or in tandem with our work, I can provide a referral.
AFTER THE INITIAL SESSION
I will ask you to fill out a feedback form telling me what worked well, what didn't and how I can make our future sessions more valuable to you. If I have indicated that I will provide you with more resources or connect you to people in my network, I will do so at that time. You are welcome to email me between sessions as well.
FOLLOW-UP SESSIONS
Subsequent sessions are used to debrief on your homework, address any barriers or problems that have cropped up since we last met and set new "to do's" to keep you moving forward to your goal. It is one thing to have a dream; it is another to have a plan of action attached to that dream and a partner to help you every step of the way. With the proper expertise and support, you are sure you are maximizing your precious time: focusing your energy in the areas most likely to bring RESULTS.
If you're not sure I have the background to
understand your situation, send me an email or give me a call at 925-708-7476 and let's
discuss. If I can't help you, I'll refer you to someone who can.
