Is a career coach only for people who are stuck? Not at all. Plenty of people work with a coach simply to get clearer on their next step, even when things are going fine.
How much does it usually cost? Rates vary widely, but many coaches offer a single introductory session so you can see if the fit feels right before committing further.
Can a mentor replace a coach? They serve different purposes. A mentor usually shares their own experience, while a coach helps you think through your own answers.
How do I know if it actually helped? A good sign is walking away from a session with a clearer next step, not just a good feeling in the moment.
Bryan says the real value of a coach is not the advice itself, it is having someone whose only job is to ask you the question you have been avoiding.
If a career coach is not the right fit for your budget right now, a well written resume and cover letter can also go a long way, and our post on cover letters Do You Really Need a Cover Letter in the US Job Market? – Life at work walks through exactly that.
Work in progress.