Five Things I Have Learned As A Career Coach

Looking back I have probably coached and written resumes for over 400 executives in all kinds of industries. Here are a few things I have learned along the way that I hope you will benefit from.

1. Many professionals worry about things that never happen

Most clients I have worked with, shared with me numerous worries they thought would hold them back including: their age, too little or too much salary, the economy, a shrinking industry, too many jobs in the last 10 years and being fired or laid off, just to name a few. I am happy to report that these same executives went to on achieve (and in many cases exceed) their career goals.

How did they do it? Usually through a combination of the following: First through education that the reality of their concerns was often overemphasized to the point of being counterproductive. Second, obstacles were minimized or eradicated through a well planned marketing strategy. And third, through an expertly crafted resume which showcased their strengths that was in sync with their goals.

2. Many professionals believe they can’t successfully change industries

I love to hear the excitement in my client’s voices when they are shown that successfully changing industries is more about their plan, their resume, their networking approach and the coaching they receive than their experience!

3. Most professionals feel they interview very well – when they don’t

“Just help me land the interviews and I will do the rest.” I have heard that dozens of times from seasoned professionals that made one simple error. They mistook their amazing charisma and people skills for great interview skills. Believe me, there is a big difference. I have seen first hand how just answering one question the “wrong way” quickly leads to a lost candidacy.

4. Most professionals can’t write an interest-generating resume

There are multiple reasons for this such as the following: industry jargon used

(a resume needs to be written for people in at least 5 different departments), not being able to write objectively, not being able to craft their resume from

a marketing perspective and too often writing what they have done and not what has happened as a result.

5. Most professionals didn’t know how much career coaching and marketing would help them – until they got it.

I can relate to this one especially. I didn’t realize how much a business coach would help me until I hired one. It’s normal to feel this way but if you have ever played sports and had an excellent coach, or studied under a dynamic teacher then you have already experienced the value that a true professional can bring, and the many ways they can help you to reach your full potential.

I hope if you have identified with any of these points, it will help you to quickly and easily take action to shore up areas for improvement. I promise this will result in a much more enjoyable and fruitful job search for you!