Finding the right employment consultant for your needs and personality can be a daunting task. However, it is of the greatest importance to find someone that is not only qualified, but qualified to address your needs. To make sure your consultant is qualified and can deliver what you need, here are 9 tips to consider.
1. Experience
Does the person have work experience comparable to yours? It is estimated that about 75% of self-proclaimed career consultants actually have little-to-no experience in the workplace and have only been trained on the job. Such individuals may have a number of suggestions that seem wise on the surface, but have few practical suggestions on how to help you achieve your professional goals.
2. Credentials
Choose a person who has real world experience and has walked the walk and not just talk the talk.
3. Credibility
Select someone that has a solid and quality reputation in the industry. That person should be active and visible in the industry and your community. That person should be presenting new ideas and strategies that are catered to you. It is crucial to validate the person's standing. Select a person for whom this is a career not their job, was a first career choice, not someone who may not be 100% committed.
4. Testimonials
Request that the person provide you with references from past clients. If he or she declines, or if you're offered just one or two, this could be a point of concern. You should certainly inquire as to why you cannot have a broad(er) sample. Whether there may have been bad experiences or no experiences (due to inexperience) in the past, there could be something that is not quite on the level. Do some research on the Web and see if you find any comments about this individual.
5. Methods
Some coaches insist that you come to their location in person; others will agree to meet with you at a local coffee shop or even work with you by phone or by email. If you would prefer a particular meeting location or method, make sure the person you're considering will at least discuss your request.
6. Goals
Any decent person should be able to help you find and establish your professional goals. However, before meeting with anyone, take some time to determine your own goals and potential milestones this will speed up the process. When you do meet with your consultant, inquire as to when you can expect to see results, and what those results might look like. If he or she is unable to give you answers in this regard, he or she is asking you to drive without directions.
7. Consultation
Your first meeting is vital in establishing the extent to which your potential employment consultant and you are compatible (or not). Don't forget: this an individual with whom you will be revealing personal aspects and details of your life. Make sure you make the most of the first session, but also bear in mind that the first consultation should be free. Beware of anyone who charges for an initial consultation.
8. Guarantee
Inquire as to what sort of guarantee the person provides. While there are many factors in beginning a new career and securing the right position, you are paying for a service and should end up satisfied. For example, imagine that in spite of all your work and investigations into improving your professional situation, your energy spent with this person, the work doesn't lead anywhere. In such a situation, what recourse will you have? Will he or she refund your money, extend the term of service, or does the person offer an alternative plan?
9. Fees
Rates vary substantially! Some persons want to meet with you only a few times, to help you get started in a new direction, while others want to work with you in a far more long-term manner. Some individuals provide you with various materials to supplement your coaching sessions; others rely more on the outcome of your meetings. Make sure you understand from the get-go how much you will be paying and what services you'll receive for that rate.
