What Career Coaches Can’t Do for You

I love what I do and believe it's my personal calling to help others move forward in their careers. Whether I’m working with a student or doing private consulting I assist people of all walks of life with career planning, updating resumes, job search techniques and even motivation. However, with all the benefits of having a coach guide you through the sometimes complex job search process there are some things career coaches cannot do for you.

Coaches call the play; you drive the ball.

Can’t Drive You (figuratively or literally). Career coaches can give someone the tools and motivation to jump start their career, but it’s up to the individual to get behind the wheel and put the plan into action. We can make very strong suggestions, but in end you are responsible for the decision to follow through (or not) with any advice you are given. When you leave the office or hang up the phone with your coach you have to find what drives you personally in life. Is it your family, lifestyle, or financial gain? Ask yourself what motivates you and how can you tie that into your job search or career?

Make Something Exist that Isn’t There. The same way a beautician can’t make you look like Beyoncé, I can’t make you look like a stellar candidate if you’re not the right fit. I am not a magician or a genie that’s going to fly you on the red carpet to your dream job. By no means am I a dream crusher, however like a basketball coach is aware of the strength and weakness of her players, I am not going to encourage someone to seek a position that I believe doesn’t play to the person’s strengths. We want to see you win!

Shoulder Your Burdens. There are things that happen in life (some within or not in our control) that impacts our ability to achieve career success. I get it and I empathize with you, but I won’t sympathize with you. As a career coach I do need to know your challenges to partner with you, but leave your excuses behind as it will serve as a road block towards a solution. We want to see you move forward!

Employ You. We are not hiring managers. Career coaches may find you leads, introduce you to a connection, but you have to be prepared and do the work to seal the deal. Today’s job market is quite competitive to say the least and coaches give you the tools to help you rise above the pack; use them to your advantage. We want to help you get hired!

We can help you create a strategic career playbook, but remember you are the star that’s going to run the play because all great players have a coach.

Moving You Forward,

Cathy Francois, MBA
Career Coach
Founder of Rezume Forward
http://about.me/cathy.francois

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Summer Business Casual Casualties: Dress Code Drama

Summer time brings out bikini tops and flip-flops. We dress a little lighter to escape the heat of the sun. Even companies with stringent dress codes, may relax their rules during warmer months. However, some may become too lax about their professional appearance, turning summer into a human resources nightmare filled with dress code drama. While I know it’s hot this summer, here’s what’s not. 

Mountain High, Valley Low, Don’t let your Cleavage Show (from the front or the back). Victoria your secret is out. Yes, I saw the tattoo on the small of your back you tried to hide from your mom.  Wardrobe that is low cut or low-rise may equal job cut or no raise.

Press to Impress. Don’t be that Sloppy Joe or Dingy Jane walking into the office like your clothes got chewed by a goat (as my Caribbean mom would say). The “shabby chic” peasant style is not in. I know the economy is tough and a dry cleaning bill may seem like a luxury, but starch spray and an iron goes a long way. If you’re wrinkled like the dollar bill you forgot in your pocket, it may reflect poorly on you.

No Funky Feet. If you want to get your foot in the door don't let your feet get in the way.  Don't kick yourself with your kicks (sneakers) or flop your style with flip-flops. I understand you may commute via public transportation and don’t want to scuff your good shoes. Just switch them out when you get to the workplace. It shows that you care about and value your professional image; an asset worth noting.

Bring Spaghetti for Lunch, but Leave the Straps Behind.  To keep your skin in the game, cover it up ladies. I know tanks are a summer staple, so try layering with a light cardigan or blouse.

It is hot out there this summer, but remember to keep your business casual style cool and professional while you escape the heat. Have a safe and fun summer!

Moving You Forward,

Cathy Francois, MBA
Career Coach
Founder of Rezume Forward
http://about.me/cathy.francois

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Life After Graduation: Paving the Way to a New Career

A friend of mine, who I admire, wrote this profound statement on her social media status, “Don't let one goal end without setting another in motion.” I immediately thought that it was timely advice for many soon-to-be college graduates. Have you thought about your career after graduation? What do you want to get out of your degree? Here are some tips on career planning ahead.

It’s Your Career: Own IT! News Flash: Having a degree in _____(you fill in the blank) is not your instant meal ticket to success. When you hear someone say, “This degree has done nothing for me,” it’s probably a result of poor career planning. Remember in life you’re guaranteed nothing, so be intentional about your next move. Very few people get handed opportunities so create a path to collide with them.

Apply Patience. Your first job after graduation may not be exactly what you always dreamed of, but proper planning will help ensure that it’s at the very least a building block. Most recent graduates obviously lack experience so seek opportunities to gain experience prior to the completion of your program if possible through internships, volunteering, or participating in student professional organizations.

Ready or Not Search Early. Keep a pulse on industry trends and what the market demands so you can prepare and align yourself accordingly. Starting your job search before you’re ready will do just that. It will be easier for you to discover where to look, who to connect with and uncover resources along the way without the pressure of finding something immediately.

Write It Down. Whether you create a formal plan, flow chart, journal, or simply list your goals, writing them down will increase your chances of following through. When choosing your career goal don’t write something down because it sounds good. Ensure that it’s connected with your desire and passion.  Do not let your present circumstances detour you from dreaming big.

If you’re thinking, “I wish I would have gotten this advice earlier,” it’s not too late to implement these tips. Transitioning into a new career? This is for you too. Remember what lies ahead in your career depends on the plan you laid before. Ready or not…set….GO PLAN!

Cathy Francois
Career Coach
Founder of Rezume Forward
http://about.me/cathy.francois

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