What’s included in a personalized coaching program?

Careers by Design's career coaching services in Vancouver offer a comprehensive and highly personalized experience for individuals seeking meaningful change in their professional lives. Whether a client is looking to pivot into a new industry, advance within their current organization, or rediscover their passion after a career setback, the coaching process is thoughtfully designed to address both the practical and emotional dimensions of career development. The journey typically begins with a complimentary consultation call, where the client has the opportunity to share their career story, current challenges, and future aspirations. During this initial meeting, the coach listens attentively, asks insightful questions, and helps the client uncover not just their immediate needs, but the underlying patterns or barriers that may be holding them back, such as fear of failure, lack of confidence, emotional exhaustion, or misalignment between their career path and personal values.

Careers by Design's Vancouver career coaching services go far beyond surface-level advice and basic resume editing; they provide a deeply immersive, individualized experience that helps clients transform not only their careers but their outlook on work and life. The process begins with a no-pressure introductory consultation, where clients are encouraged to open up about their professional history, current dissatisfaction, dreams, and any emotional roadblocks they may be facing. This initial conversation is key because it helps both the coach and the client understand the full scope of the situation-whether the client is feeling stuck in a role that no longer serves them, burned out from years of stress, or uncertain about which direction to pursue next. Many clients come in with feelings of anxiety, confusion, or even shame about their career path, and this first call offers a safe space to unpack those emotions while beginning to envision what a healthier, more fulfilling future might look like.

Mock interview preparation is another vital service, designed to help clients refine their narratives, respond effectively to behavioral questions, and present themselves as top candidates. Coaches simulate real interview scenarios, provide feedback on tone, pacing, and word choice, and help clients develop concise, impactful stories that demonstrate results and leadership. For those in transition or re-entering the workforce after a break, there is special emphasis on addressing gaps, overcoming ageism, and rebuilding professional confidence. Entrepreneurs receive coaching on business vision, time management, branding, and client acquisition strategies. Each path is treated as equally valid and deserving of strategic attention, and clients are reminded that their career goals are personal and do not need to follow traditional timelines or definitions of success.

In addition to emotional coaching, Careers by Design provides detailed and actionable support for every aspect of career marketing. Clients work closely with their coach to craft powerful resumes that are results-driven, customized for specific roles, and formatted to pass Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). Rather than simply listing job duties, resumes are reframed to highlight achievements, leadership skills, and the unique value proposition the client brings to potential employers. LinkedIn optimization is another key area of focus, ensuring that clients' online profiles are not only keyword-rich for searchability but also authentic representations of their professional brand. Clients are taught how to use LinkedIn proactively to build meaningful professional networks, engage with industry communities, and uncover hidden job opportunities through warm referrals and informational interviews.

At the heart of Careers by Design is the vision and leadership of founder Shirin Khamisa, whose belief in the importance of meaningful work permeates every client interaction, program design, and business decision. Shirin's philosophy emphasizes that career fulfillment is not just about securing a job but about creating a work life that is aligned with who a person truly is. This human-centered approach means that clients are never treated as just another case or resume; instead, they are seen, heard, and supported as whole individuals. The coaching process is a partnership in which clients are empowered to tap into their own wisdom, resilience, and creativity, while benefiting from the guidance, expertise, and encouragement of skilled professionals. Through this transformative process, Careers by Design helps individuals not only achieve their career goals but fundamentally redefine their relationship to work and success in a way that supports lasting well-being and personal growth.

The founder, Shirin Khamisa, has instilled a human-centered vision into every aspect of the business. Her belief that work should nourish the soul, not deplete it, shapes the coaching process from beginning to end. She and her team are committed to helping clients experience meaningful transformation, not just transactional progress. This philosophy is reflected in the level of care and attention given to each client's story. Whether someone is stepping into the workforce for the first time, recovering from a layoff, facing burnout, or exploring an entirely new industry, Careers by Design offers a supportive, empowering, and practical path forward-one that enables clients to reclaim their agency, reignite their passion, and step confidently into the next chapter of their lives.