Frequently asked questions

You may be thinking about using a career consultant for the very first time.

Please look at some frequently asked questions below. For a specific query use our ‘Request More Information’ the button below or call us on: 0203 051 1054 

Q What happens during the Career Options and Job Search Consultation?

A  You will have an in-depth discussion about your career options with one of our career planning and job search specialists. We prepare carefully for your meeting by reviewing in advance your CV, the issues you wish to discuss and your responses to a career questionnaire. You will leave this meeting with greater clarity on the career options open to you and how to secure a new opportunity.

Q How much does the Career Consultation Cost ?

A  The cost of the Career Options & Job Search Consultation costs between £175 and £250 plus VAT, depending on your stage of career and level of experience.

Q Why should I pay for the first consultation when your competitors are offering a 'free consultation'?

A We provide you with a proper career counseling and job hunting guidance session. We’ll give you fresh ideas on career options and tips on how to make your job hunting more effective. Within three working days of your consultation we will send you a written summary of our recommendations. We’ll also let you know if we can assist you further.

Nothing better to answer this question that the feedback received from one of our clients: "When I went to see other career consultancies offering a free first meeting I didn't get any real advice or feedback. At CareerBalance I had a meaningful discussion with the consultant who had obviously prepared well. She pointed to the career options open to me and how I could make a career change. I got a taste of how she could help me. And she didn’t try to sell me something or make me buy a career programme on the spot. I was able to go away and think about things. They sent me a programme to consider after the meeting. That made a big difference."

Q After the meeting, I'm not entirely clear on the services you provide or what the cost to me would be. Could you provide me with some more information about this?

A If we think we can assist you further, we’ll send you an outline for a suggested programme with the summary we send you after your consultation. The programme will be tailored to your specific needs and usually includes a full assessment  of your strengths, career needs and aspirations, identifying the most suitable career options for you, and supporting you in your search for a new opportunity. Information about our services and costs can be found here

Q Will I be able to see someone outside of my office hours?

A Many of our clients are working so our first appointment begins at at 8.30 am, Our last consultation starts at 6.00 pm. You can specify a date and time for your consultation, and programme sessions will be arranged to suit your time table.

Q How long is an initial consultation?

A 75 minutes. Telephone or Skype sessions last for up to an hour, and you only pay for the time you use.

Q What is your success rate? Can you put me in touch with someone who had career counselling with you?

A We have very good levels of success with clients. The testimonials on our site are a snapshot of the feedback we have received..We are often quoted in the press and are asked to write articles on career and job market issues CareerBalance in the News. Many of our clients come to us by recommendation. Because we maintain strict confidentiality for our clients we do not give out names of individuals without their permission.

Q Will I have the same consultant throughout my time with Career Balance?

A Yes, unless you request a different consultant. This rarely happens as we seek to match you at the outset with a consultant who understands your background and sector.

Q How experienced are your career consultants?

A You can find details about all of our consultants here. We are members of the two leading professional bodies in our industry – The Institute of Career Guidance and the Association of Career Professionals.  We adhere to their Codes of Practice.

Q Have you had experience with people who have changed careers completely?

A At CareerBalance we have helped hundreds of individuals to make successful career changes. We’ve helped lawyers become writers and speech therapists, and bankers to become teachers and journalists. We’ve supported life-long employees to set up their own businesses or to become freelance consultants.

If you require further information or you have a specific query, email or call us on: 020 3051 1054  9.00 am to 6.00 pm Monday to Friday