January 17th 2024.
Published on February 5, 2018, this article discusses the importance of career coaches and features an interview with Marsha Haygood, author and founder of StepWise Associates L.L.C. Haygood, who will be hosting a coaching session at the 2018 Women of Power Summit, shares her insights on why every professional woman should invest in a career coach, the best career advice for black women, and how to find one.
While having a supportive group of sister-friends is valuable, women often find that they need someone else in their circle when they face career challenges or crossroads. This is where career coaches come in. A career coach is someone who guides professionals in planning, managing, and developing their career. But for Haygood, it's more than just a job. She becomes a trusted and dedicated partner for her clients.
So, how do you know if you need a career coach? According to Haygood, if you have ever felt stuck in your career, struggled to expand your network, or unsure about your next steps, then a career coach can provide valuable guidance. Before looking for a coach, it's important to do a self-evaluation and set goals. This allows you to identify your needs and be open to new ideas and strategies. Haygood also offers a program called D.A.R.E. that helps clients develop a personalized strategy to achieve their goals.
One of the challenges for professionals, especially women, is finding a work-life balance. Haygood believes that balance is not realistic, but making adjustments is. She encourages her clients to think about what they can do to make their goals more attainable. And when it comes to finding a good coach, Haygood stresses the importance of two qualities: good listening skills and the ability to think strategically. A coach should be a partner and a confidant, someone you can trust and share your challenges with.
When it comes to finding a career coach, Haygood suggests asking for referrals, attending conferences or networking events, and reading books. And when you have found someone you would like to work with, it's important to do your research and ask the right questions. Confidentiality is a key aspect to consider, especially if your employer is the one providing the coach. Haygood assures her clients that their information will always be kept confidential, but in some cases, the company may require certain information to be shared.
Investing in yourself and your career is important, and Haygood believes that everyone should have a coach. She encourages professionals to prioritize their development and save up for a coach, just like they would save up for something they really want. After all, your best self requires all of you, and you are worth the investment.
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