The Great Resignation has led to a significant shift in the job market, with millions of employees quitting their jobs to find more fulfilling work. This has resulted in a record number of open jobs, offering plenty of opportunities for career professionals to secure a promotion, a raise, or a better job in general. However, finding the right career path can be challenging, and this is where a career coach comes in.

A career coach is a professional who understands the current job market landscape and has built strategies to help clients secure jobs that align with their career goals. Career coaches study industries for changes and adjust their strategies to give their clients an edge. They guide and teach their clients about the things most people don’t know about career advancement.

But with so many career coaches out there, how do you choose the one that is right for you? The first step is to understand that not all career coaches are created equal. Some are not experienced or do not have the necessary qualifications, so you need to be careful when selecting one. Here are five tips to help you find and choose a career coach that fits you:

1. Advertise your needs via LinkedIn: This free service allows you to receive proposals from coaches on how they can meet your needs. You can also schedule a complimentary 15-minute discovery session.

2. Check out the International Coaching Federation: Look for coaches who have gone the extra mile by getting certified. You can check out the national website or attend a local ICF chapter meeting to meet coaches.

3. Attend a professional development conference: These conferences can have career coaching as an option. Submit your need and get assigned a coach to try out coaching.

4. Seek out referrals: Ask others for recommendations on career coaches. You can also search for the #careercoach tag to gather a list of coaches to check out. Check out their website and schedule a complimentary discovery session to determine fit.

5. Check out the top career podcasts on Macs List: This is a great resource to find podcasts that speak to careers. As you listen to episodes, you will likely find a career coach that you want to go the extra mile with.

When selecting a career coach, it is essential to look beyond sharp sales copy and fancy design. You need a coach who cares about their clients and wants to help them get results. Check their background, credentials, and results. Get on a discovery call to get a feel for the coach, and make sure you can trust them. A career coach is a partner who can help elevate your career, so choose someone who understands your needs.

However, it is important to keep in mind that even the best career coach cannot guarantee a raise, promotion, or a new job. Every job and situation is unique, and a career coach can only guide and advise you. You need to be willing to put in the work alongside the coach, and both parties need to make an equal effort.

Great career coaches are readily available in this interconnected digital age, but they are not miracle workers. They cannot do the work for you or guarantee results. The responsibility and work to achieve your desired result are shared. Therefore, before you hire a career coach, be willing to put in the work, be clear about your goals, and choose the right coach who can help you achieve them.

In conclusion, the Great Resignation has provided a unique opportunity for career professionals to find fulfilling work or rise within their current company. However, to achieve your goals, you need the right guidance and support. A career coach can help you navigate the job market and find the job that aligns with your career goals. So, use these tips to find and choose the right career coach who fits you, and be willing to put in the work to achieve your career goals.