Need a New Job? Consider a Career Coach

TIPS FOR FINDING A COACH

Anyone can call themselves a coach but if you're looking, here's a suggested checklist to keep in mind:

1. Ask whether they follow a professional code of ethics. Make sure the person you're considering subscribes to a professional code of ethics advocated by one of the professional trade groups.

2. Check on training and education. Choose someone who's been through a coach training program to ensure the person has had some professional preparation. Career counselors listed by the NCDA, for example, hold a graduate degree in counseling with a specialization in career counseling. Coaches could have other qualifications such as a psychology degree or other training. It's a good idea to ask.

3. Ask for credentials. The ICF credentials, for example, require members to follow a code of ethics, have specific training and pass through written and oral testing and an application process.

4. Look for experience. Specifically, a coach experienced in the area for which you are seeking help. If you're an executive, seek one with executive experience. The same goes for factory workers or those in certain professions.

Garfinkle, the Oakland coach, agrees that hands-on experience is a must for a job coach. He says it's OK to ask how many years they've been coaching and how many clients they've seen. He also recommends asking about their process.

Coaches likely will establish a specific number of meetings a month and discuss their preferred communication methods, whether its telephone calls or e-mails. A charge of $100 an hour is not uncommon and could be considerably more in some cases.

5. Be sure there is a chemistry between you and the coach. A good rapport could make the process go much faster. In your initial interview with a prospective coach, spend 15 or 20 minutes talking about one of the issues you want to tackle, Garfinkle said. See if he or she is willing to coach you a little right there on the spot, this will give you a sense of whether you can build a rapport.

He says narrow your choices down to a couple of coaches and ask them for references of clients you could call.

Whether you're entering the work force again or just looking for a leg up in this competitive job environment, a coach may offer some value if you're looking for help. Approach the search for a coach with eyes wide open, do some homework and seek a professional with a history of success, some credentials and a personality that's a good fit with yours.