The Job Market is Tough: How to Become a Career Coach
It’s no secret that the job market is becoming increasingly competitive. According to LinkedIn, the number of applicants per job has jumped from 1.5 in 2022 to 2.5 in 2024, making it harder for job seekers to stand out. In response, many are turning to freelance career coaches to help them navigate the process.
Upwork, a freelance marketplace, has seen an uptick in demand for career coaches, and the site recently released its 2025’s Most In-Demand Skills report, highlighting the fastest-growing skills in the industry. To become a successful career coach, experts say you need to have a combination of experience in the workforce and a certification in coaching.
Julie Bauke, founder of career planning company The Bauke Group, recommends getting a certification through an organization like the International Coaching Federation to learn the ropes. Additionally, you need to have had some experience in the workforce, preferably in hiring and managing people, to have credibility with your clients.
Once you’ve gained the experience and certification, you can list your services on freelance platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and LinkedIn, or turn to local gatherings to find clients. Career coaches on Upwork charge as much as $179 per hour, and pay varies depending on factors like the type of clients and framework in which you’re offering your services.
With the job market becoming increasingly competitive, becoming a career coach can be a lucrative and fulfilling career path. By gaining the necessary experience and certification, you can help job seekers achieve their goals and build a successful career.