Athletes rely on coaches to keep them prepared and focused . Job-seekers can sometimes use the same kind of help .

WHAT THEY DO

Looking for a job is an uphill battle , with dozens of other applicants often vying for the same position that you ’ re interested in — maybe more . A career coach can put you in a better position to succeed by assisting with everything from time management to making jobsearch connections . Depending on their individual skill set , these consultants may serve in roles like resume writer and mentor to help sharpen your interview skills . They ’ ll also be well acquainted with headhunters , employers and others in the recruiting field . If you ’ re early into your career , suffering from burnout , or haven ’ t been on the job market for some time , their critical suggestions may help shape your vision for what comes next .

HOW IT HELPS

Finding the best consultant typically comes down to checking references from

others who are looking for work , either among your

© ADOBE STOCK

friends or online . Careercounseling certificate programs

are rare , and aren ’ t necessarily indicative of a

coach ’ s abilities . Instead , years of expertise , prior results and word of mouth are the best measures . Once you ’ ve connected , they ’ ll act as a kind of brand-awareness expert , pinpointing different aspects of your experience and know-how to market for specific job openings . They ’ ll help you craft a freshened-up resume , and build out your network . It ’ s best to pay by the hour , to ensure that you don ’ t get locked into a longterm service agreement that might extend longer than needed .

PARTNERING UP

Most people assume that hiring a career coach is an option of last resort . But they don ’ t have to be someone you turn to only after failing to secure a number of earlier posts . Look at career coaches as an investment in your own personal career advancement . In fact , those who are considering a new job but aren ’ t quite sure are among the best candidates . After all , they ’ ll also discuss big-picture things with you , including motivation techniques and longterm job planning . Consider budgeting this as you would any other essential part of job seeking , like a new outfit and haircut . You may very well emerge from these discussions with an entirely new career path in mind .