The difference between success and failure in your work lies in having a career plan. And the earlier you work one out, the faster you will reach your goal.

Looking at your career situation while you are employed often provides an opportunity for a more thorough planning process than if you have reached a crisis in your career. Think of career planning as your career resiliency and employability insurance.

A good starting point before engaging your career adviser or coach is to read books and articles in the library and on the Internet about career coaching.

Choosing a coach
Career advisers are also known as career coaches, career counsellors, work-life coaches, personal career trainers and even life management facilitators. The career services provider may be a firm with one of these, or a team, some with specialisation in different aspects of career support help.

It is useful to enquire whether they are registered members of the Asian Association of Career Management Professionals (or any other recognised association) as this indicates that their service is governed by a code of professional conduct and that they receive regular updates on professional practice.

Modern-day career coaches function more as counsellors and come from diverse backgrounds and experiences. Some of the best career coaches do not have psychology and education degrees but come from the School of Hard Knocks — that is, they have had tasted failures and successes, and are inspiring people with practical knowledge and experience in the field of career coaching.

Do ask for the credentials and experience of the coach, or get a referral from another career coach. Most coaches provide a complimentary session so that you can better understand the process and “interview” the coach. Make sure you are compatible with the coach — that gut feeling you get when you feel comfortable speaking to a total stranger.

Fruitful directions
Some career services offer a range of workshops relating to career planning, resumé writing and interview rehearsals. You need to decide whether you prefer to work in a small group or within the privacy of a one-to-one relationship with the coach you engage.

Most career coaches do not use psychological tests (psychometric tests). This does not mean that such tests are not helpful, but that the use of career self-assessment instruments are their preferred way of assisting your self-exploration and career transition.

If psychometric tests are used, check that the coach is accredited to administer these tests.
It is crucial to remember that career coaches do not place you in jobs. Their purpose is to empower you to find one yourself. Nevertheless, they should have a thorough knowledge of the local labour market and be able to guide you in more fruitful directions.