Dear Career Coach, What Do You Do?

Whoever you are—whether you’re early in your career, returning to work, or navigating a career change—you bring a unique blend of skills, experience, and interests to the table. But while you may be an expert in your own field, that doesn’t mean you have to be an expert in navigating the job market.

Career planning, job hunting, writing a standout resume, and performing well in interviews all require specific knowledge. It’s no surprise that many people feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure when it comes to choosing the right career path or moving forward professionally. That’s exactly where a career coach can help.

This guide covers what career coaches do, how they differ from counsellors, and why working with one could be your secret weapon in achieving professional clarity and momentum.

What Does a Career Coach Do?

A career coach helps you gain clarity, direction, and strategy in your career journey. They begin by understanding your education, values, personality, interests, strengths, and work experience. Many also use career assessments to identify new possibilities (don’t worry—there’s no pass or fail).

Importantly, career coaches don’t judge. They bring fresh, objective insight into your situation and offer a supportive, forward-focused approach to help you:

• Discover or refine your career goals
• Explore new industries or roles aligned with your interests
• Improve your resume and cover letter
• Practice job interview techniques and personal branding
• Build confidence in your professional value

Coaches act as accountability partners, motivators, and strategists. And the best part? They’re fully on your side.

Why Hire a Career Coach?

Let’s say you’ve been working for years but never quite found a role that truly lights you up. Maybe there’s a skill or passion that’s always been there—but you never thought to turn it into a career. A career coach can help uncover and connect the dots between your passions and your profession.

For example, someone with a lifelong love of writing might never have considered roles in copywriting, content strategy, or UX writing until a coach pointed them in the right direction. These lightbulb moments happen more often than you’d think.

A Career Coach Can Help You:

• Identify career options you hadn’t considered
• Develop a step-by-step plan for career transition or advancement
• Repackage your skills to suit a new industry
• Improve how you “sell” yourself to employers

You likely know your strengths—but a coach knows how to frame them for maximum impact in today’s competitive job market.

Already Know Your Career Goal? A Coach Still Helps

If you already know what you want to do, a coach can help you get there faster and smarter. Think of them as a performance coach for your career. They can:

• Help you refine your resume for the roles you want
• Conduct mock interviews and provide honest feedback
• Assist with your job search strategy and networking plan
• Connect you with lesser-known companies that align with your values

Coaches also help you fine-tune your professional pitch—so you don’t risk “winging it” in a high-stakes interview or networking event.

How Much Does a Career Coach Cost?

Career coaching costs vary. Some charge hourly (typically $100–$250+), while others offer package rates for multi-session programs. While this can feel like a big investment, many people find it pays off quickly in the form of:

• Landing a better job, faster
• Securing a higher salary
• Building a more fulfilling, long-term career path

Think of it as an investment in your future self—and in many cases, one that yields both personal and financial ROI.

Find the Right Career Coach for You

Not all career coaches are the same. Some specialise in graduate careers, while others focus on leadership development, mid-career transitions, or career changers. Look for a coach who has:

• Credentials or formal training in coaching or career development
• Experience in your industry or target role
• Clear communication and a supportive approach

Ask for a free discovery call to see if the coach is the right fit for your needs and personality.

Need support with your next step? Check out our guide on career coaches vs. career counsellors.

Bonus: Use Coaching to Support Your Study or Career Change

If you’re looking to upskill or retrain, a career coach can help you map the best path forward. They can recommend areas of study that align with your goals and connect you to relevant online courses and qualifications.

Popular career pivot areas in 2025 include:

• Project management
• Health and community services
• Digital marketing
• Cyber security and tech