One question you may have is what is the difference between an executive coach and a career counselor. I came across an interesting and similarly titled article which sought to help leaders assess which one is right for them.
The article gave the context that organizational leaders today face many tough challenges such as economic uncertainty, faster technology, globalization. We can add more such as unrelenting competition, talent shortage and workforce mobility, to name a few.
To be successful, leaders must develop not only new skills but also broader and alternative perspectives. The question is, how does a leader go about identifying and developing these? The answer is, and you guessed right, through working with an executive coach or career counselor.
While both help their clients assess and develop their professional capabilities, these are some distinctions between executive coaches and career counselors, and understanding what kind of transition you are making can hekp you make the right choice.
If you are making a career change or are considering one, a career counselor may be more helpful to you in identifying and exploring your career options. Career counselors would have more information about job and career opportunities in various industries. They can also do assessments of your interests and skills.
If you are working to develop your full potential, which is a never ending journey, an executive coach is the better choice. Executive coaches help you in ascertaining and focusing on your priority development goals and in moving forward to achieve these.
In a nutshell, if you are making a career change, seek a career counselor, and if you need support in moving foward to develop your full potential, seek an executive coach.