If you’ve ever wondered, “Do I need a recruiter, a coach or something else?” you’re not alone. The career support landscape can be confusing, with different titles that sound similar but serve very different purposes. Let’s break it down so you know who’s who, what they do and when it makes sense to reach out.
For assistance, we reached out to a colleague, Alec Broadfoot, CEO of Vision Spark, which is an executive search firm.
We’ll start with career coaches, as this is Crosworks’ expertise.
Career Coaches
- Who they support: Individuals seeking clarity into career paths and options
- What they offer: Help uncover your strengths, clarify purpose and build next steps
- When to turn to one: If you’re unclear on your direction and want to define what work will be meaningful and fulfilling to you
Recruiters & Executive Search Firms (also referred to as “Headhunters”)
- Who they serve: Organizations with a high-demand, specific need — not individual job seekers
- What they do: Seek out niche talent for hard-to-fill roles. Identify and place candidates in specialized roles and leadership
- When to consider engaging one: When you’re clear on your direction and want exposure to roles in your field. Example: If you’re highly specialized and recognized in your field, you may wish to get your resume in the hands of a headhunter who fills jobs in your industry.
Staffing & Temporary Agencies
- Who they serve: Employers needing short-term workforce; employees needing short-term employment
- What they do: Provide contract workers
- When to use them: When you’re looking for flexible, immediate work or exploring different types of roles or industries
Outplacement & Career Transition Services
- Who they serve: Employees impacted by layoffs, funded by the employer
- What they do: Provide structured career coaching, résumé writing and job search support during transition
- When to use them: If you’re part of a downsizing or reorganization and your employer offers these services—take advantage, they’re free to you.
- Example: You’re exiting after a corporate restructure and your company provides an outplacement package with coaching and workshops
Other Example of When to Use Which Service
- Career Coach – if you are mid-career and need guidance on your career path.
- Recruiter/Search Firm – if you are already clear and are seeking an in-demand role, i.e. you want to be a CFO in healthcare.
- Staffing Agency – if you just relocated and need immediate income while you job search or are unemployed and have been unable to find a full-time job.
- Outplacement Firm – if you are given outplacement assistance, use it!
The Takeaway
Career resources don’t all serve the same purpose, so it’s key to know who does what. A Career Coach works directly for you, helping to clarify direction and strategy. Recruiters, search firms and staffing agencies primarily serve employers – you benefit when your goals align with their open roles. Meanwhile, outplacement services can provide crucial support depending on your circumstances.
Ready to Gain Clarity—and Control?
If you’re an individual ready to explore what comes next, Crosworks is here to help you define your purpose, frame your strengths and confidently choose the right path forward for your career journey. We serve as a non-judgmental place for you to process issues, gain perspective, create action plans and build confidence.
To benefit from our expert coaching sessions and build a thriving career, schedule a free, introductory call with Crosworks to learn how we can meet you in your journey.
Thanks to Alec Broadfoot at Vision Spark for sharing his expertise.