How to Choose and Use a Career Counselor or Coach

Fees

Look for a professional who charges by the hour or who charges a monthly fee that covers several sessions. Many charge an average of $100-250 an hour. It’s typical to work in 30- to 60-minute increments for six to 10 sessions during a three- to six-month period.

Beware of advance-fee career marketing firms. Don’t pay large fees up front or sign lengthy contracts. You should pay whether or not you get the job. 

Manage Your Expectations

Career professionals aren’t magicians. If you simply show up, pay, and wait for a job to land in your lap, you are almost certainly going to be disappointed. On the other hand, if you are putting in serious effort but are not seeing any changes within a month or so, it may be time to reevaluate.

Despite good will and hard work on both sides, a partnership with a career professional doesn’t always work out. Should you try again? That’s your call. Remember, success in landing a good job is up to you.

Professional Associations

Career professionals are not regulated. That means anyone can call himself or herself a counselor or coach. However, many are certified by the following professional associations:

• ACP International: The Association of Career Professionals International
• ICC International:The Institute of Career Certification International
• ICF: The International Coach Federation 
• NBCC: The National Board of Certified Counselors 
• NCDA: The National Career Development Association

Career counselors and coaches are professionals who charge fees to help clients make their job searches or career changes more successful.

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