What to Expect in a Career Coaching Session

Starting a new chapter in your professional life can feel both exciting and a little overwhelming. Whether you're thinking about switching careers, aiming to climb the ladder, or simply want to sharpen your skills, a career coach can be a fantastic guide. I want to share what you can expect from a career coaching session and how it can help you move forward with confidence.

Imagine sitting down with someone who truly listens, understands your goals, and helps you map out a clear path. That’s what a career coach does. They don’t just give advice; they partner with you to unlock your potential and navigate the twists and turns of your career journey.

Career coaching session in progress

What Is a Career Coaching Overview?

Before diving into the details, let’s clarify what career coaching is all about. At its core, career coaching is a personalised process where a coach helps you explore your strengths, values, and aspirations. It’s about you - your unique skills, experiences, and dreams.

During a career coaching overview, you’ll typically:

• Reflect on your current situation and what’s motivating you to seek change.

• Identify your skills and areas for growth.

• Set realistic and inspiring career goals.

• Develop strategies to overcome obstacles.

• Gain clarity on your next steps.

  
  

The coach acts as a sounding board, cheerleader, and strategist all rolled into one. They ask thoughtful questions that help you see things from new angles and encourage you to take action.

For example, if you’re a professional feeling stuck in your current role, a coach might help you uncover transferable skills that open doors to new industries. Or if you’re a startup founder, they could assist in aligning your personal goals with your business vision.

What Happens During a Career Coaching Session?

When you book a career coaching session, you might wonder what the experience will be like. Here’s a simple breakdown of what usually happens:

1. Getting to Know You

   The coach will start by asking about your background, current role, and what brought you here. This is your chance to share your story openly.

   
   

2. Exploring Your Goals

   Together, you’ll clarify what you want to achieve. This could be landing a new job, switching industries, improving leadership skills, or something else entirely.

   
   

3. Identifying Strengths and Challenges

   You’ll discuss what’s working well and what’s holding you back. This honest reflection helps create a tailored plan.

   
   

4. Creating an Action Plan

   The coach will help you break down your goals into manageable steps. You’ll leave with clear tasks and timelines.

   
   

5. Ongoing Support

   Many coaches offer follow-up sessions or check-ins to keep you motivated and accountable.

   
   

Throughout the session, expect a warm, encouraging atmosphere. The coach’s role is to support you, not judge or push you too hard. It’s a safe space to explore your options and build confidence.

Career coaching session action plan notes

How Much Should I Pay for a Career Coach?

One of the most common questions is about cost. How much should you expect to pay for career coaching? The answer varies depending on several factors:

• Experience and Credentials

Coaches with extensive experience or specialised certifications may charge more.

• Session Length and Frequency

Some coaches offer single sessions, while others provide packages with multiple meetings.

• Location and Market

Prices can differ based on where you live and the demand for coaching services.

In the UK, you might find rates ranging from £50 to £200 per hour. Some coaches offer sliding scales or group coaching options to make it more affordable.

Remember, investing in a career coach is an investment in yourself. The right coach can help you save time, avoid costly mistakes, and boost your earning potential in the long run.

If budget is a concern, consider starting with a single session to see if the coaching style fits your needs before committing to a package.

How to Prepare for Your Career Coaching Session

To get the most out of your session, a little preparation goes a long way. Here are some tips to help you feel ready and confident:

• Reflect on Your Current Situation

Think about what’s prompting you to seek coaching. What’s working? What’s frustrating?

• List Your Goals

Write down what you hope to achieve. Be as specific as possible.

• Gather Relevant Documents

This might include your CV, job descriptions, or performance reviews.

• Be Open and Honest

The more transparent you are, the better your coach can support you.

• Prepare Questions

Think about what you want to ask your coach. This could be about career paths, skill development, or industry insights.

Approaching your session with a clear mindset helps you and your coach hit the ground running.

Preparing for a career coaching session

What Happens After Your Career Coaching Session?

The session doesn’t end when you say goodbye. The real magic happens when you put your plan into action. Here’s what you can expect next:

• Review Your Notes

Go over the action steps you discussed. Keep them visible to stay motivated.

• Take Small Steps

Start with manageable tasks. Even tiny progress builds momentum.

• Stay Accountable

Some coaches offer follow-up sessions or email check-ins. Use these to share wins and challenges.

• Adjust as Needed

Your goals might evolve, and that’s okay. Coaching is a flexible process.

• Celebrate Successes

Recognise your achievements, no matter how small. This boosts confidence and keeps you moving forward.

Remember, career growth is a journey, not a race. Be patient with yourself and trust the process.

I hope this gives you a clear picture of what to expect in a career coaching overview. If you’re ready to take the next step, a career coaching session could be just the support you need to unlock your potential and embrace new opportunities. Here’s to your exciting journey ahead!