How to choose the right career coach as a nonprofit leader
Are you at a crossroads in your career, feeling uncertain about the next steps to take?
Perhaps you are feeling an internal pull towards more meaningful work in the nonprofit world.
You’re not alone. We often hear from job candidates and coaching clients that they’re looking to exit the corporate sector, but aren’t exactly sure how. A career coach may be your guiding light in defining and achieving your professional goals as you transition to nonprofit work.
What does a career coach do?
Career coaches are professionals trained to assist individuals in identifying career goals, devising a strategic plan to achieve them, and providing ongoing support throughout the journey. Their role is to empower you, guide you in seeking answers to your questions, and help you make informed decisions about your career.
There are many types of coaches, including executive and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Before choosing a career coach, it’s also important to understand the difference between coaching, counseling and therapy, and mentoring so that you and your coach are aligned on expectations. (See our blog post on executive coaching for a more detailed explanation.)
Why work with a career coach?
The decision to collaborate with a career coach can be transformative, especially for those aspiring to transition into nonprofit work. A career coach can provide valuable insights, helping you refine your leadership abilities and chart a clear path to success.
How career coaching can help you
A career coaching relationship can help anyone seeking a better career fit while transitioning to the nonprofit field. Career coaching offers many benefits, such as:
Thought partnership: A coach is a trained professional who offers dedicated time, space, and energy to externally process big internal questions.
Clarifying goals: Working with a coach can help you define and set clear, achievable career goals, ensuring you can track your success.
Improving confidence: A coach will provide guidance to overcome self-doubt and other self-limiting beliefs.
Defining your why: A coaching relationship can help you clarify the impact you want to make, giving you the ability to make more strategic decisions in your next career move.
Tools for growth: Our coaches utilize the Birkman Assessment, a powerful personality test grounded in positive psychology, to help you understand your own unique strengths, as well as how you interact with others.
What to look for in a career coach
Choosing the right career coach is a critical decision. Consider the following factors when making your selection:
Industry knowledge: Look for a career coach who is either well-versed in your industry or is knowledgeable about the specific challenges and opportunities it presents.
Experience: A coach who has been in your shoes can provide more relevant advice. Seek someone who has experience in the roles or career transitions you're pursuing.
Coaching background: Investigate the coach's background in coaching. A strong coaching background should be evident in their results – inquire about the success stories of their clients.
Alignment with your goals: Ensure that the coach's approach aligns with your career objectives and values. A good match will enhance the effectiveness of the coaching process.
Compatibility: Chemistry and rapport are essential in the coach-client relationship. You should feel comfortable and confident while sharing your thoughts, as well as receiving your coach's guidance.
Questions to ask when selecting a career coach
Finding the right coach to build a relationship on trust and communication is a significant decision that can have a profound impact on your professional journey. We advocate for our clients to actively participate in assessing whether a coaching relationship aligns with their needs. Asking these questions can facilitate a mutual understanding between you and your coach about what to anticipate from this partnership.
What is your background and experience as a coach?
What kind of training and professional development have you completed?
Do you have experience in nonprofit work? Do your past clients work in nonprofits?
What is your coaching approach, methodology, or philosophy?
What tools do you recommend to clients?
What specific areas or topics do you specialize in?
Can you provide references or testimonials from past clients?
How do you tailor your coaching to meet the individual needs of clients?
How do you recommend clients measure progress and success?
Do you have a coach?
How to find a career coach
Choosing a career coach to accompany you on your journey into impact work is pivotal. By understanding the role of a career coach, recognizing the advantages they bring, and considering the essential factors when making your choice, you can embark on a path of growth, success, and fulfillment in your new career in the nonprofit world.
Please note: While Bonsai Leadership Group does not provide career coaching services directly, we are more than happy to refer you to our vetted career coaches. You can trust that these coaches align with Bonsai’s values and mission of helping individuals in the nonprofit space grow into the best possible versions of themselves.
Let us join you on your next step in achieving your goals and making an impact.