[Anonymous]

Is a career coach or counselor worth the money for a career change? Or would constant networking suffice? I really don’t know since it is really quite expensive to engage one but if all turns out well, it may be worth the money.

I mean if you look at the job market, career coach can’t really control the outcome of hiring. What would be considered a great career coach? I feel that it should be someone in accounting but then again, there are many career coaches with credentials and experiences from other industries.

[Amay]

I am friends with recruiters that offer this advice for free. I don't think you need to spend money on a career coach if you have a good relationship with an accounting recruiter or even have a good mentor in accounting. Someone you look up to who is at least 2 levels above you.

BEC: 73, 81
AUD: 85
FAR: 71, 77
REG: 74, 75...finally DONE! 😀

*This is my 2nd attempt at the CPA exam. For all of you who have failed this exam many times, given up on it, or taken a break like me, remember that it is still possible to finish what you started...failure is the opportunity to begin again more intelligently 🙂

[Mayo]

I've never really used a career coach, so I can't speak to the service you'd receive. However, I think networking within the industry is your best bet.

With a strong network, someone with valuable and real life insight is only a few emails or calls away.

Then again, if you're lacking a strong network, or do not have the time to cultivate contacts that could introduce you to people, a career coach might be a good idea.

I'd just make sure they have expertise and/or experience in the type of career change you're looking at. It doesn't have to be in accounting specifically, as career changes can entail lots of non-industry type of activities, but one within the field would surely be better, all things being equal.

Mayo, BBA, Macc

[Author]

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