Setting realistic goals and expectations is the first step toward achieving any dream. So, let’s set the right expectations for your career coaching experiences.
Career coaches guide you through the process of using techniques and applying strategies to resolve the problems, doubts, and challenges you experience throughout your career. By immersing yourself in the process with an open mind, focused on your desired outcomes, listening carefully to the coach’s guidance, you’ll enjoy the benefits of an effective coaching session.
Your career coach is a facilitator in your life. Your coach won’t tell you what to do, what your future might look like, or how much money you will make. Most of all, your coach can’t wave a magic wand to make your future happen as you dream. Instead, your coach will give you the keys to understanding what you want, where you want to be, and how you can get there.
Coaching sessions work when you do; so, coaches count on you to be a “doer,” not an “observer.” You own your career, and you succeed by taking action. To be clear, your career coach won’t write your resume, fill out your job application, or be present in your next interview. Your coach can, however, offer guidance on how to make your resume more attractive to recruiters, help you practice interview skills and prepare for tough questions. Help you overcome your career challenges, draw the map to your next job or career progression. It’s up to you to do it.
Don’t expect your career coach to agree with you about everything. In fact, your coach will challenge your original thoughts, help you see things from different perspectives, and ask lots of pointed questions. Listen and consider the advice carefully. In the end, expect the sessions to spur your creativity and ignite your determination to “go for it!”