What is a career coach and do you need one?

In my networking, I've met several professional career coaches but I wasn't really certain what a career coach did. So I asked Susan Ashley of Women's Woods, a professional career and life coach and workshop facilitator to answer some questions. (Susan is a client for my web design business Website Makeovers )

Q. What is career coaching?

A. Career coaching is an interactive process between the client and the coach which explores all work-related issues. The coach is the catalyst and facilitator to move the individual forward in discovering his/ her passion, purpose, values and other critical aspects of their ideal work.

Q. How do I know if I could benefit from career coaching?

A. If you are unhappy with your current position, have been laid off, want to change careers, or feel stuck or lost, then you could benefit from a career coach.

Q. How do I select a career coach?

A. Ask for testamonials, and see if there were some references that they could talk with. Most coaches offer a complimentary session to see if the fit is right for coach and client. They should 'connect' on the first complimentary session.

Q. What questions should I ask when choosing a career coach?

A. The client will ask the potential coach about his or her method of coaching. How does the coach coach? A great coach asks the right questions and also finds out if the client is ready to be coached. A good career coach is not a therapist, consultant, or even a mentor. He or she propels the client forward, remains objective, and is the partner to the client while achieving the results the client wants.

Susan has told me in other conversations that career coaches in the Kansas City area can charge from $30 to $80 per hour, depending on the coach.