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Saved by the Career Coach


Remember the ‘90s? Flannel shirts, frosted tips, and Saved by the Bell marathons? Back then, when Zack Morris got into trouble, he could just call “Time Out,” deliver a well-timed one-liner to the camera, and somehow everything worked out.



Unfortunately, being an adult doesn’t come with a pause button and when it comes to figuring out your next career move, the pressure is too real (yay anxiety and fear). Whether you’re switching lanes, re-entering the workforce, or just feeling so not into your current gig, one thing’s for sure: you don’t have to figure it out alone.


Enter the career coach.


What Is a Career Coach, Anyway?


Think of a career coach like a Mr. Feeny meets Clarissa Darling hybrid (Google those names if you're not a millennial; someone who can offer both real-world advice and help you decode what’s next. The right coach won’t just dust off your résumé or tell you to “follow your passion” (whatever that means). Instead, they’ll help you identify your strengths, navigate transitions, and build a roadmap tailored to your goals.



So how do you choose the right one?

Finding Your Coach


Before you hire the first person with a LinkedIn bio, ask yourself a few things:


  • Do I need help identifying what I want to do or help getting there once I already know?

  • Am I looking for someone to review my résumé, or someone to coach me through big decisions?

  • What’s my budget for this kind of support?


It's important to choose a coach you genuinely vibe with. Trust me, any career coach worth their salt wants a strong working relationship that supports you. Whether you're looking for someone with specific industry experience, a certain communication style, or just the right personality match, your preferences matter.


Look for a coach who

✔ Has relevant credentials or experience

✔ Offers a free intro call to see if you vibe

✔ Doesn’t promise “six figures in six weeks” (it's hard to guarantee anything in career journeys)

✔ Centers your identity, goals, and values in the process



Bonus points if they let you bring a Lisa Frank notebook to your first session.


Free Resources You Might Be Overlooking


Before you drop big bucks, check this list—because there’s a good chance you already have access to career help, no scrunchie required:


Local & State Government Resources

Most states have workforce development boards or career centers that offer coaching, job placement, résumé help, and even training—often for free. (Think: NCWorks in North Carolina, CareerOneStop nationwide.)


Community Colleges, Trade Schools, or Universities

Attended a two-year or four-year institution? Even if it’s been a minute, many schools offer lifetime career services for alumni. That could include job boards, résumé reviews, mock interviews, or networking events.


Nonprofits & Workforce Support Programs

Look for orgs focused on workforce development in your area. Groups like Dress for Success, Goodwill, Urban League, and even local libraries offer career coaching, interview prep, and networking events—often at no cost.


Virtual Platforms & Webinars

Sites like LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, and even your public library’s digital resources (hello,O*Net Online, and the National Career Development Association) can help you upskill and explore new career paths without a hefty price tag.


The Final Bell


Choosing a career path—or changing one—can feel overwhelming. But finding the right coach or resource can make it a whole lot easier. Whether you’re dreaming of a promotion, pivoting industries, or just want to feel more you at work, know that help is out there.


And who knows? With the right support, you just might find yourself saying:


“I’m so excited! I’m so… scared!”

You got this!



Need a Little Help Getting Started?


If you’re not sure where to turn first, try:


  • Searching “[Your City] + Career Center” or “[Your State] + Workforce Development”

  • Visiting your alma mater’s career services page

  • Reaching out to a nonprofit that supports job seekers in your area


I hope you feel the energy and love coming through—this comes from a genuine desire and hope that you find a career coach who can help take you to that next level. If you're interested in meeting with me to explore working together on your career journey, feel free to reach out for a free 30-minute consult. Like I said, I want to make sure we vibe just as much as you do! Keep up the hustle, take care of yourself, and find what’s right for you. Learn more here!

 
 
 

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