If you’re comparing online training programs or bootcamps, career coaching can sound like a “nice-to-have.” But for most career changers, the hardest part isn’t finishing coursework—it’s figuring out how to translate new skills into a real job search plan, while life is still happening around you.
Career coaching is designed to help you move from learning to taking action: building confidence, getting clear on your direction, and navigating the job search with structure and support.
In this article, we’ll break down what career coaching is, when it’s helpful, and what coaching looks like at Merit America.
What Is Career Coaching?
Navigating today’s job market can feel overwhelming. With rapid technological change, evolving hiring expectations, and the growing importance of how you communicate your experience, a polished resume alone is no longer enough.
Career coaching is a personalized form of support that helps you navigate career decisions, job search strategy, and professional growth. Rather than offering generic advice, career coaching focuses on helping you clarify your goals, build confidence, and take practical steps forward—one decision at a time.
When Should You Consider a Career Coach?
Having access to a career coach can be helpful at many points in your professional journey. Here are a few common moments when coaching can make a meaningful difference:
When You’re Ready for a Career Change
Thinking about a fresh start? Career coaching helps you align your skills, passions, and values with new opportunities. Your coach will guide you in pinpointing the right career path, building a resume that stands out, and getting you interview-ready.
When You Feel Stuck
Feeling stagnant in your current role? A career coach can help you shake things up by identifying growth areas and setting realistic, actionable goals. They’ll work with you on skill-building, expanding your network, and setting you up to take your career to the next level.
When You’re Between Jobs or Returning from a Work Break
Navigating the space between jobs or re-entering the workforce after a break can be challenging. Career coaching helps you redefine your career goals, sharpen your job search strategy, and stay competitive in a fast-moving market. It’s all about finding the right direction and keeping you on track.
When You Need Confidence In Your Direction
Confidence can make or break a job search. A career coach will help you build self-assurance by focusing on your strengths, prepping you for interviews, and guiding you through salary negotiations. You’ll feel empowered to present yourself confidently to future employers.
The Benefits of Career Coaching with Merit America
At Merit America, career coaching is a core part of how we support learners through a career change—not just as they learn new skills, but as they prepare to apply them in the real world.
Unlike programs where coaching is offered as a limited add-on, our approach is built around ongoing support. From day one, learners work with a Program Career Coach who helps them build a plan, stay accountable, and navigate challenges as they arise.
Coaching focuses on helping you make informed decisions, build confidence, and develop the professional skills needed to move forward—at a pace that fits your life.
What you can expect from a Merit America Career Coach:
Personalized Career Strategy: Your coach works with you to craft a tailored career path that aligns with your strengths, goals, and values, helping you map out a clear, actionable plan.
Refining Your Personal Brand: Through resume feedback and LinkedIn optimization, you’ll learn how to showcase your journey and skills, ensuring recruiters take notice.
Navigating Job Transitions: Whether you’re switching industries or re-entering the workforce, our coaches guide you through the transition with actionable strategies and support.
Enhanced Job Search Techniques: From crafting targeted resumes to strategically positioning yourself for recruiters, you’ll be equipped with the tools and know-how to boost your visibility. Additionally, you’ll learn to use AI tools to amplify your efforts, ensuring your applications remain authentic, competitive, and impactful.
Interview Preparation: Our coaches provide mock interviews, feedback, and strategies to help you craft a compelling personal narrative and handle tough questions with confidence.
Ongoing Support and Adaptability: We offer continuous support, keeping you informed about market trends and equipping you to thrive in a constantly changing job market.
📌 Related Reading: How To Make A Career Change With No Experience
Frequently Asked Questions:
Does the Merit America program only include a Career Coach?
Does the Merit America program only include a Career Coach?
No. In addition to working with a Program Career Coach, you’ll have access to a broader support team designed to help you navigate both learning and career transition. Your support may include:
Program Career Coach
Your primary coach throughout the program. They support you with goal-setting, professional skill-building, job search strategy, and staying motivated through challenges.
Technical Advisors
Depending on your career track, you’ll have access to Technical Advisors who help you navigate challenging coursework and troubleshoot issues. Many are Merit America alumni and offer insight on how to succeed in the program.
Community & Events Team
Provides access to virtual events and additional support resources, including mental health sessions, legal consultations, financial planning, and community referrals.
Alumni Career Coaches
After completing the program, you continue to have access to career coaching support as you navigate job searches, interviews, negotiations, or new career transitions.
What is the difference between a Program Career Coach and an Alumni Career Coach?
What is the difference between a Program Career Coach and an Alumni Career Coach?
Program Career Coach: You work with a Program Career Coach throughout Foundations, Immersion, and the Job Success phase. They provide consistent, personalized guidance to help you build confidence, develop job search skills, and navigate your career journey from day one through active job searching.
Alumni Career Coach: After completing the program, Alumni Career Coaches provide continued support as you pursue opportunities, prepare for interviews, negotiate offers, or navigate career changes over time.
How often will I meet with my Career Coach?
How often will I meet with my Career Coach?
You’ll meet with your Program Career Coach multiple times each month through a mix of:
1-on-1 sessions focused on your individual goals, progress, and job search strategy
Group sessions with peers, covering topics like resume development, networking, and interview preparation
Outside of scheduled sessions, your coach is available through email and Slack for ongoing questions and support.
What support do I receive during the Job Success phase?
What support do I receive during the Job Success phase?
The Job Success phase begins after you complete your technical training and typically lasts six weeks. During this phase, you continue working with your Program Career Coach, focusing on:
Creating a strategic job search plan
Optimizing resumes, LinkedIn profiles, and job board presence
Preparing for interviews and negotiations
Using tools and resources to research companies and connect with recruiters
Working through real-life challenges like motivation, confidence, financial barriers, or workplace concerns related to age, gender, sexuality, or neurodiversity
Learning how to responsibly use AI tools to support your job search
If you’re still seeking employment after the initial Job Success phase, extended support is available through Alumni Career Coaches.
Is there an additional cost for Career Coaching?
Is there an additional cost for Career Coaching?
No, career coaching is included with Merit America’s program at no extra cost. When you join, you’ll have full access to all of our coaching and support services.
Roadmap Your Career Change with Merit America
Merit America’s career coaching is designed to help you navigate a career change with clarity, structure, and support—not just land your next role. Coaching focuses on building a long-term strategy that aligns with your goals, strengths, and real-life constraints.
In short: if you put in the work, you’ll receive the support you need. According to our 2024 Alumni Wage Analysis, alumni with outcome data report an average annual wage gain of nearly $21,000 three or more months after completing the program—raising their average pre-program salary from $27,800 to $48,500. The analysis also shows a 75% success rate, meaning nearly three out of four alumni with outcome data report a positive career change and/or earnings above the defined threshold.
If you’re exploring what a career change could look like for you, take time to learn more about how the program works and which paths may be the best fit. Explore our Career Tracks page to learn more and apply today!
📌 Related Reading: Is Merit America Legit? And Other Job Training Questions
How Coaching Helped Alix
Alix started on the traditional college path but dropped out when the costs began to outweigh the benefits. After years working in the restaurant industry, Alix was burdened by student debt for a degree never completed. When their partner discovered Merit America, Alix saw an opportunity to gain practical technical skills and apply them for real career growth.
Career coaching proved transformative for Alix. “It made the difference,” they say, emphasizing how it built their confidence in writing resumes, navigating job applications, and acing interviews. “I’ve recommended the program to others multiple times, even just for things like email etiquette. It’s what sets Merit America apart. I still use the soft skills I learned and teach them to others.”
Five years later, Alix now holds the position of Director of IT and achieved a $95,000 wage increase, continuing to use and share the skills they acquired.
How Coaching Helped Nicole
Nicole worked at a dog treat factory in Minnesota but felt unfulfilled. Without a college degree and unwilling to incur debt for traditional education, she sought change. When Nicole discovered Merit America on TikTok, she decided to quit her job and fully commit to securing a more sustainable, high-growth career.
Though the program was challenging, Nicole persevered with the support of her coach, Judy, and her squad. “I had to make quitting my job worth it,” she recalls. After completing the program, she landed a Help Desk Technician role at a large international company that typically only hires college graduates.
Now, three weeks into her new position, Nicole supports 800 employees. “Getting accepted into this program was a saving grace,” she says. “I’m proud of how far I’ve come, and my new career has me loving life again.”