Melanie MoralesIf I had a dollar for every job opportunity I missed before hiring a career coach, I’d probably be in Bali right now with a drink in hand instead of typing this.
Yes, a career coach can make that much difference! Beyond strategizing your next move or resume, a well-qualified one comes with years (or even decades) of real-world wisdom and industry connections.
If you think that’s the kind of support you need, we found the best ones in Edmonton with records that show real career growth.
If you’re an entrepreneur, check out these local business consultants, too, for complete professional guidance.
How much do career coaches charge in Edmonton?
Most career coaches in Edmonton charge $100–$180 per hour, while some charge a package-based rate of $229–$375. Session format, experience, location, qualifications, and specialties dictate the pricing.
1. Careers by Design
Address: 10088 102 Ave NW #1205
Contact Details: +1 780-652-1710
Operating Hours: Mon to Sat – 9 am to 9 pm
Established in 2005, Careers by Design has a tenure spanning decades.
The collective also has a holistic service range. Clients from every career stage, from new graduates and C-suite execs, pop by for counselling, interview coaching, branding, and resume writing services (which is arguably the standout offering).
We found clients whose anxiety had eased and who landed jobs more quickly after hiring coaches such as Tami, Shirin, and Adam.
One point worth noting, however, is that they’re a “virtual-first” company. Coaching is typically carried out via Zoom, which saves time but can feel a bit “impersonal” for some.
Pricing for their multi-session programs might not fit everyone’s budget either. No-interest plans soften the blow, and expect to pay $888–$2,388 for eight to 12 sessions.
But hey, you’re paying for licensed professionals with a track record of helping over 1,000 clients!
Incredible Ideas
Wonderful experience! I was stuck in a rut sending resumes into the universe with no luck for nearly 2 years. I worked with my coach at Careers by Design and she gave me the tools for me get more strategic with my efforts and focus on what content gets hiring managers interested.
Once I had that all sorted out, I spoke with one of their resume writers who was super easy to talk to and provided me some incredible ideas and guidance for how I’ll go about getting hired down the road. Plus, it was comforting to have them as a knowledgeable career ally, because job hunting is a frustrating experience and we all need some support. If you’re tired of trying to do everything by yourself, don’t miss out on working with the team here, they really took the stress out of the whole thing. A++
– Nico Kristen, Google Review
Very Impressed
I recommend the resume writers at Careers by Design. I have worked with two writers over the years and have always been very impressed with their work. I have now switched 3 jobs and have had no issues at all getting interviews.
– Morgan Giles, Google Review
2. Four Tree Coaching
Address: 603 Crimson Dr
Contact Details: +1 587-986-5543
Operating Hours:
- Mon to Thu – 8 am to 5 pm
- Fri – 8 am to 12 pm
Don Vierboom (MBA) calls the shots at Four Tree Coaching. He comes with three-plus decades of business leadership experience.
Part of his background involves managing several franchise locations. The Sony Store Canada is a prime example; as a regional manager, Don handled nine of the company’s stores!
That feeds directly into his career coaching work. Most clients enjoy benefits such as being able to identify strengths, set goals, overcome challenges, and accelerate growth.
You could also say his approach is up-to-date. Don combines his tried-and-true methods with AI to come up with smarter and future-ready strategies.
We suggest not taking your sweet time when it comes to booking, though. His schedule can get tight due to popularity, and the lack of weekend hours complicates things further.
Several want to try his free 15-minute consult perk as well, so booking can get competitive.
Strategic Planning
This past August 2022, I took the opportunity to join the ReBoot Your Business and Sell It – A 5 Day Challenge with Don Vierboom of Four Tree Coaching. It was an hour each day spent with Don and other business owners getting some great advice and information about marketing, strategic planning, acquiring new employees, and time management.
The information shared and knowledge gained has made changes in how I run and view my small business. I had never considered an end goal or that my business could be sold in the future. I am using the information gained to develop my own strategic plan for my business.
I highly recommend signing up for business coaching with Don and see what improvements and changes that your business may need. It’s a game changer!
– Crystal Dentman, Google Review
Helped Us Rebrand
Specially Made needed help in marketing its products and services in the social media space. Don helped us rebrand the company, set up social media channels, create posts and employ resources to develop our online profile. Don was able to demonstrate the results of his activities through defined key performance indicators.
I have no hesitation in recommending Don at Four Tree Coaching for business coaching services.
– Gary and Penny, Google Review
3. Resources With Results
Address: 104 Street NW
Contact Details: +1 780-903-4174
One notable feature of Resources With Results (RWR) is that they have certain services competitors don’t.
Vocational Rehabilitation for pros facing setbacks such as injuries or medical leaves is one of those. Word is, it’s great for job targeting, assessments, work transition coaching, and even managing mood disorders.
RWR can also host interactive workshops for topics like career planning or job search strategies. Personally, they work best for two client types: those who learn through hands-on activities and those looking to network.
The issue is this isn’t an outfit with multiple coaches on board; seasoned career counsellor Lorna Bramley takes on the main tasks herself. Most likely, you’ll face availability constraints and limited choices.
That’s not to say Lorna’s record is weak. For more than 25 years, she’s been guiding individuals aged 16–65 to improve their skills and decision-making.
I was impressed
I worked with Lorna from Resources With Results for 8 months. My time with Lorna was tremendously productive and meaningful for my personal growth and understanding, and for my return to meaningful work. I was so impressed with the way Lorna created a coaching partnership with me to ensure my greatest learning and success. I will be eternally grateful for the work we did together. I highly recommend working with Resources With Results if you are interested in investigating new career possibilities or a return to work program for yourself or someone you know.
Would Strongly Recommend Her to Anyone
Lorna helped give my confidence in reaching my career goals. She worked with my limited budget at the time, so that I could see her and receive the solution-focused guidance that I needed. She helped me revamp my coverletter and resume. She also gave me practical and proven ways to hunt for jobs (FYI: internet searches are the least effective – if this is all you are doing to job hunt STOP and go see Lorna!) . I will be forever grateful for the advice and guidance Lorna has given me. I have referred all of my friends and family and I would strongly recommend her to anyone.
– Melissa Kinsman, Google Review
4. Mindful Career Edmonton: Career Coach
Address: 10180 Howard St
Contact Details: +1587-401-1962
Operating Hours: Mon to Fri – 9 am to 5 pm
Going with Mindful Career means getting psychology-driven coaches who employ evidence-based methods, such as neuroscience and psychometrics.
Many interviewees described them as “highly structured.” See, the initial meetings always start with coaches gathering data and analyzing it before tackling skill gaps or strategizing plans.
That “whole-person” framework has earned them recognition and awards from established bodies. Think Forbes, the NYC Journal, The Globe and Mail, and Canadian Business!
Sadly, Mindful Career only runs from Monday to Friday. We featured companies that have Saturday hours.
Opening in 2019 makes them our newest entry as well. The rest have decades under their belt.
Not every pick has a massive and multidisciplinary crew, though. This one has over 50 licensed professionals on deck, including human behavioural specialists, social workers, and psychotherapists (you can also find the latter at these counselling services).
And unlike most names above, Mindful Career accepts mental health insurance plans nationwide.
Huge Help
My experience with Mindful Career was actually life-changing. Between the well-chosen psychometric assessments and the meaningful sessions, I was able to learn so much about myself, my values, and my relationship to work. The homework exercises provided clarity and guided me toward a path that I would not have found on my own, and my therapist, John, gave me the confidence to move forward. I have already recommended this program to several people and will continue to do so! It was also covered in full by my insurance, which was a huge help.
– Kate Finegan, Google Review
Very Rewarding Experience
My time with MindfulCareer was a very rewarding experience that provided me with a clearer perspective on my future career path. As a computer science undergrad, I connected with a counselor named Jim due to his background in IT. I found our conversations beneficial and relatable because of this. Jim consistently provided insights and thoughtful questions I never had the eloquence myself to think of. He helped guide me to a career path within the IT industry best suited to my personality and interests. Early sessions also helped me discover what job traits I would resonate with most (Hands-on, social, analytical). I appreciate the time I spent with Jim, as it was incredibly valuable and helped me develop a career roadmap focused on roles I will truly enjoy.
– Matthew Molloy, Google Review
5. MCG Careers Inc.
Address: 10109 106 St #1100
Contact Details: +1 780-448-1380
Operating Hours: Mon to Fri – 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
MCG Careers Inc. would top this list if we ranked based on longevity. They’ve been providing Albertans, specifically unemployed individuals and career-changers, with consulting services since 1989.
Variety is another strong point. Their sizeable team provides career coaching, resume/cover letter services, job search support, career personality assessments, labour market research, and so much more.
What’s convenient is that you can access services without travelling, thanks to virtual programs offered in English and French.
The problem is that they have shortcomings in communication. For example, reps have provided conflicting info and were late on email updates before.
And while the majority find their staff empathetic and patient, there have been reports that flagged a few for rudeness. That’s the last thing you want from a coaching team.
On a positive note, MCG is government-funded, so costs are relatively lower than those of most providers.
Incredibly Supportive
Last October, I enrolled in the SkillBuild Program at MCG Career, and it completely transformed my career path. Thanks to their comprehensive training and support, I successfully transitioned into a new profession that I’m truly passionate about.
The program not only provided me with essential theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience in the trades but also helped me obtain all the necessary safety tickets required for the industry. What stood out to me was the Foundational Learning Assistance, which eased my financial concerns and allowed me to focus entirely on my studies.
The entire team at MCG Career was patient, friendly, and incredibly supportive throughout my journey. Even after completing the program, their follow-up was outstanding especially Avery, who made me feel fully backed up every step of the way.
I’ve started my career as an electrical apprentice after the program, and I love my job! If you’re considering a career in the trades, I highly recommend the SkillBuild Program. It’s a fantastic opportunity to gain skills, certifications, and ongoing support to succeed!
– Chelsea Chen, Google Review
I learned a lot
I had the pleasure of participating in the G4U program, and it was a very rewarding experience. I learned a lot from my workshops with Ms. Loren and Ms. Sadia. I was given the chance to gain work experience in a new role that will allow me to help others, which I truly love. The program manager, Ms. Natasha, was an excellent listener and communicator; she offered good guidance and support during this process. I learned so much from these ladies and am very grateful for MCG Growth 4 U program for giving me this opportunity. I highly recommend anyone struggling mentally and professionally to look into this company and the excellent program they are offering. Truly helped me when I needed it most.
– Osman Ismail, Google Review
