What does a Career Coach do?

In my case, a career coach is someone with broad business aviation industry knowledge and experience who can support current and aspiring professionals with career decisions and guidance. In addition to one-on-one coaching, the other areas I specialize in are resume writing, LinkedIn profile reviews, and interview prep.

How should those interested in working with a career coach think about hiring one?

It is absolutely an investment in themselves! Business aviation is a very niche industry, and it can be hard to find an understanding, knowledgeable, and confidential sounding board. I tell people that if their car is broken, they take it to a mechanic. Career challenges, job search, and professional development sometimes require a tune up too.

What should people look for in a career coach? Are there certifications so you know you are hiring someone w skilled expertise? 

There are career coaching certifications available. I am currently working on one now to add to my experience. In a specialized industry like business aviation, my suggestion is to find a coach who understands the language, acronyms, and nuances of the industry.

Why did you develop your business? What are you hoping to achieve? 

I feel like Showalter Business Aviation Career Coaching (SBACC) is my full circle career moment. In many ways, I have been training for this throughout my career, starting with FBO experience, industry association work, and Part 91 recruiting, my focus has always been on people. I love this industry and the people in it. If I can be a positive influence on my peers, what better way is there to support business aviation?

I feel my entire career has been training for this moment. Working as a recruiter, I fostered relationships with candidates and Part 91 clients, wrote resumes, conducted interviews, checked references, worked with HR departments and hiring managers of all kinds, and took part in the negotiation of job offers. However, I do credit leading displaced industry professionals through the outplacement process during the pandemic with honing my skills and planting the seed for SBACC. I was one-on-one with people who had just lost their jobs in a very uncertain time. It was my honor to be a resource to them, guiding them through emotional recovery, job search preparedness, and supporting them all the way through offer acceptance and new employment. The outplacement experience really connected the dots for me.

What would you say to someone who has applied for a ton of jobs but never gets a response? 

Have you ever considered hiring a career coach? But seriously, maybe you need someone else to help you identify ways to be more competitive and achieve different results.

Viewpoint: Is Your Professionalism Fit for Duty