Why Career Coaching for Women Is Different — And Why It Matters

When women come to me for career coaching, their stories often sound surprisingly similar: they’re smart, capable, and ambitious—but somewhere along the way, they feel like they’ve hit a wall. They’re not lacking in skill or work ethic. What they’re missing is support that truly understands the unique challenges women face at work.

Generic career advice often misses the mark because it doesn’t account for the real, sometimes subtle obstacles women navigate every day. That’s why career coaching for women is different—and why it can be so transformative.

The Reality Women Face in the Workplace

Let’s get real for a moment. Women face challenges that often go unspoken, but they’re very real:

• Being overlooked for promotions while being told to “wait your turn.” In fact, McKinsey’s 2024 Women in the Workplace report found that while women make up nearly half of the entry-level workforce, they only hold 29% of C-suite positions.

• Doing the work but struggling for recognition. Women are more likely to have their contributions credited to others, quietly eroding confidence over time.

• Balancing ambition with caregiving responsibilities. Women often carry more of the invisible load at home, which can make career advancement feel like an uphill battle.

• Feeling pressure to show up as someone they’re not. Many women feel they have to “tone down” their ambition or leadership style to fit expectations, sacrificing authenticity along the way.

It’s no wonder that so many talented, high-achieving women end up feeling stuck, frustrated, or invisible.

What Makes Career Coaching for Women Different

Career coaching for women is not one-size-fits-all. It focuses on areas that can make the biggest difference:

• Confidence: Dismantle imposter syndrome and own your accomplishments.

• Visibility: Learn how to showcase your skills and contributions in ways that feel authentic.

• Negotiation: Close the gender pay gap by advocating effectively for fair pay and promotions.

• Alignment: Build a career that reflects your values, priorities, and goals.

Actionable Advice: Boosting Your Visibility

Visibility isn’t about bragging—it’s about making sure the right people see your value. Here are practical ways to start:

1. Identify your unique strengths. What do you consistently get recognized for? What do colleagues or clients come to you for?

2. Share your wins strategically. Keep a running list of accomplishments and update your manager, LinkedIn, or portfolio periodically.

3. Volunteer for high-impact projects. Seek opportunities that showcase your skills to senior leadership.

4. Network with intention. Attend industry events, webinars, or professional groups where you can connect with peers, mentors, and leaders.

5. Mentor or sponsor others. Teaching and guiding others positions you as a leader while expanding your visibility organically.

Even small, consistent steps can shift how people perceive your contributions—and open doors that might have felt out of reach before.

Why It Matters

Career coaching isn’t just about climbing the ladder—it’s about helping you step into your strengths, show up authentically, and make an impact that lasts.

When women get the support they need:

• They step into leadership confidently, influencing teams and projects with clarity.

• They challenge workplace norms, proving that ambition and collaboration can coexist.

• They create opportunities for the next generation of women leaders.

According to the International Coaching Federation, 68% of women managers have used coaching practices to support their growth—almost double the rate of male managers. The takeaway? Coaching works—and it can accelerate the career progress women often have to fight twice as hard to achieve.

FAQs About Career Coaching for Women

1. Do I need career coaching if I already have mentors?
Mentors are invaluable, but coaching is different. Coaches help you uncover solutions, set goals, and create actionable strategies tailored to your unique career journey.

2. Is career coaching only for women in leadership?
Not at all. Coaching benefits women at every stage—whether you’re just starting out, aiming for a promotion, or considering a career pivot.

3. How do I know if coaching is right for me?
If you feel stuck, undervalued, or unsure about your next steps—or if you want to align your career with your life and values—coaching can provide clarity, confidence, and strategy.

4. What should I look for in a coach?
Look for someone who specializes in working with women, understands your challenges, and creates a supportive, actionable approach that helps you grow.

Take the Next Step

If you’re ready to stop playing small and start building a career that truly fits you, career coaching can be the catalyst you need. By working with a coach who understands your strengths and challenges, you can:

• Gain clarity on your next steps

• Build confidence and influence

• Negotiate for the opportunities and pay you deserve

• Align your career with your values and priorities

Schedule a discovery call today and take the first step toward the career—and life—you deserve: https://rebeccahenninger.as.me/authentic 

Career coaching isn’t just an investment in your career—it’s an investment in yourself, your impact, and your future.