In this guide
Working with a career coach
How to prepare for a career coaching session
A one-page preparation sheet, what to bring, how to use the session and what to do afterwards, so a coaching hour turns into actions you actually take.
A one-page preparation sheet
Session date: [date] The one thing I most want from this session: [outcome] What has happened since last time: [progress, setbacks, new information] Actions I agreed last time, and whether I did them: [list] What I am finding hard or avoiding: [honest note] Questions I want to ask: [up to three] Materials to share, if any: [for example a job advert or a draft answer]
What to bring for different goals
| Goal | Bring |
|---|---|
| Choosing a direction | Notes on what you enjoy and avoid, and two or three roles you are curious about |
| Interview preparation | The job advert and your draft answers to likely questions |
| Applications | A target advert and your current resume |
| Progression | Your current responsibilities and the role you are aiming for |
Share only what you are comfortable sharing. Leave out confidential employer material; a description of the situation is enough.
Online and phone sessions
Many coaching sessions happen by video or phone. Find a quiet place where you will not be overheard, especially if you are talking about your current employer, and test the link or number a few minutes early. Keep your preparation sheet open so you can refer to it, and ask whether the coach is happy for you to take notes during the call.
During the session
- Say what you want from the session at the start.
- Be honest about what you did not do since last time; it is useful information.
- If a question is unclear or unhelpful, say so.
- In the last ten minutes, agree specific actions and when you will do them.
After the session
The same day
- Write down the actions, each with a date.
- Note one thing you learned or would do differently.
- Put the first action in your calendar.
- Record any questions to bring next time.
Common questions
Should I send my resume to a coach before the session?
Only if the session is about applications and you are happy to share it. You decide what to share; on Luceria's directory, nothing from your account is sent to a coach automatically.
What if I have not done my actions from last time?
Say so at the start. Understanding what got in the way is often more useful than the action itself.
Put it into practice
See how Luceria helps with thisDrafted with AI assistance and checked against Luceria’s editorial standards. Examples are illustrative, not real people’s results. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.