Why do you need a coach?

The term “coach” has its origins in the small Hungarian village of “Kocs,” renowned for producing large four-wheeled horse-drawn carriages that came to be known as “kocsi”. This term later evolved into slang at Oxford University, referring to a tutor who “carries” a student though an exam. Over time, “coach” became predominantly associated with sports, and today, coaches can be found in virtually every aspect of life.

But why do you need a coach, and more specifically, a career coach? For some, career coaching is synonymous with finding a new job. It involves resume review, interview preparation and navigating the job search process. For others, it's about escaping from deeply unsatisfying situations and discovering their true “passion”. And for many, it's simply about finding happiness and success in their current role or advancing within their field.

As I reflect on my 25-plus-year career journey, I've come to appreciate that a career is not just a destination, but a journey, and a long one at that. What seemed like the perfect choice 20, 15, 10 or even 5 years ago may not hold the same weight today. I often find myself thinking back, wishing I had known then what I know now.

To me, the 1830 reference to a tutor makes a lot of sense when it comes to coaching. Just as not everyone needs a tutor, not everyone needs a coach. A coach is not simply there to provide answers or complete tasks for you. Instead, a coach helps you develop your skills and knowledge, offers insights, practices with you and explains concepts so that you can find your own solutions. So, the question remains: do you need help in getting from point A to point B in your career journey?

The decision to seek a coach’s guidance is deeply personal, shaped by your individual circumstances and aspirations. Regardless of where you are in your journey, a career coach should provide valuable insights, perspective and support. She should empower you to unlock your full potential and achieve success on your own terms. If you ever feel the need for someone to help “carry” you through your career journey, consider seeking out a coach who can offer her wisdom and hindsight, understanding that your journey will be uniquely yours.

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