Employment Coaching

It’s a phrase many employment advisers will recognise:“I just want a job with no stress.”But what happens when a client is searching for something that doesn’t really exist?In this final episode of the series, Claire explores how to respond when clients say they want a stress-free job.She looks at why this isn’t really about the job itself - but about fear, perception, and confidence. She shares practical ways to help clients break down what “stress” actually means, identify specific triggers, and begin building confidence in their ability to cope.If you’re working with clients who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or fearful about returning to work, this episode will give you a simple, practical way to move the conversation forward.

Listening is one of the most important skills in employment coaching. But there’s a big difference between simply hearing what a client says and truly listening to understand them.In this episode, Claire explores the concept of active listening and why it can transform your conversations with clients. She introduces the OARS method from motivational interviewing - a simple framework using open questions, affirmations, reflections and summaries - and explain how these responses can help clients feel heard, understood and supported.She also shares one of the most powerful (and often overlooked) coaching techniques: the use of silence.If you support people through job search, career change or employment barriers, these techniques can help you build stronger relationships and unlock deeper conversations with clients.For more practical coaching tools and techniques, subscribe to the Employment Coaching newsletter or visit the Careerology website to explore our training courses for employment advisers and supported employment professionals.

LinkedIn has become one of the most powerful tools in the modern job market - yet many jobseekers are still using it in exactly the same way they use traditional job boards.In this episode, Claire shares what she's learned from running LinkedIn training sessions with employment advisers and jobseekers.She explores why LinkedIn is far more than a vacancy search platform and how it can be used for market research, employer engagement, and building meaningful professional connections.She also highlights three common mistakes that jobseekers make on LinkedIn - and how employment advisers can help clients use the platform more effectively.If you’re supporting clients with job search, career change, or employer engagement, this episode will give you practical ideas you can immediately share with the people you support.For more practical tools and insights like this, subscribe to the Employment Coaching newsletter, or visit the Careerology website to explore our popular training course: Finding Jobs in the Hidden Market.

Caseload management is one of the biggest sources of stress for employment advisers - and yet it’s rarely talked about openly.In this episode, Claire unpacks the real reasons caseloads become overwhelming. Whether you’re drowning in referrals, stuck with clients who aren’t progressing, buried under paperwork, or struggling to discharge appropriately, this conversation will help you step back and see the bigger picture.Claire shares the three core foundations of effective caseload management - successful beginnings and endings, efficient systems and processes, and strong clinical integration - along with a simple four-stage client journey framework that can transform throughput and reduce burnout.If this episode resonates, subscribe to the Employment Coaching newsletter for practical tools and reflections each week - or visit the Careerology website to explore our Caseload Management training for employment teams who want calmer systems and stronger outcomes.

Job or career - does it really matter?In this episode of the Employment Coaching Podcast, Claire explores a question that often divides opinion in supported employment: are we here to get clients a job, or to help them build a career?She unpacks how the meaning of “career” has changed - from traditional linear progression to today’s fluid, boundaryless journeys.She reflects on why focusing solely on quick job outcomes can sometimes lead to poor retention, and how one powerful conversation about future hopes, values and purpose can transform not only job satisfaction but long-term stability in work.You don’t need to be a qualified careers adviser to do this well - sometimes one well-placed question is enough.If you’re supporting clients into work and want stronger, more sustainable outcomes, this episode will give you a fresh lens to use in your practice.********************To receive more practical insights like this, subscribe to the Employment Coaching newsletter, or book a place on our Career Coaching Tools & Techniques training course.

Disclosure is one of the most complex and emotionally loaded conversations in supported employment - especially when a client’s health condition or disability isn’t immediately visible.Should they tell an employer? When? How much? And what are the risks… or the benefits?In this episode, Claire unpacks the practical and psychological realities of disclosure (or, as it’s increasingly called, managing personal information).She explores the three broad client groups you’ll likely see on your caseload, the legal context around reasonable adjustments, and a simple five-step framework you can use to guide clients through this decision with confidence.This isn’t about telling clients what to do - it’s about helping them make informed, empowered choices.If you’re working in IPS, Connect to Work, or any employment support programme supporting people with hidden health conditions, this episode will give you clarity, structure and reassurance.***********************To receive more practical tools like this, subscribe to the Employment Coaching newsletter, or visit the Careerology website to explore our latest IPS and supported employment training courses.

Career decision making is something we support clients with every day - and yet it’s often one of the hardest parts of the work.Some clients get stuck weighing up options, others swing from one idea to the next, and some simply can’t move forward at all, even when they’ve done “all the right thinking”.In this episode, Claire explores four common ways people get stuck in career decision making - drawing on years of coaching practice and real client scenarios.She looks at influence vs independence, research vs action, intuition vs logic, and preparation vs practice - and why getting stuck at either end of these spectrums can quietly stall progress.This episode is designed as a reflective tool for employment advisers and employment specialists.Whether you use it to think differently about a client on your caseload - or about your own career decisions - it may help unlock new insight and movement.********************To explore more reflective tools like this, subscribe to the Employment Coaching newsletter or visit the Careerology website to see our latest training for employment advisers and specialists.

Homework is a core part of many coaching and therapeutic approaches - yet in employment support, it’s often overlooked, rushed, or applied in a one-size-fits-all way.In this episode, Claire explores what we really mean by “homework” in employment coaching, why it matters so much, and how the tasks clients do between sessions can shape motivation, confidence and progress.She reflects on common mistakes, such as setting standardised tasks or overwhelming clients with too much to do, and explains why homework should always be tailored to the individual.Claire also introduces her simple Three Cs model for setting effective homework - clarity, commitment and contingency - and explains how using this framework can strengthen the coaching relationship, provide valuable insight into a client’s situation, and help clients move forward in a realistic and sustainable way.********************For more practical reflections on employment coaching, supported employment, and day-to-day practice, you can sign up to the Employment Coaching newsletter - or contact us to discuss training for your service.Sign up to the newsletter here: https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coachingView our training courses: https://careerology.org/adviser-training/

In this episode of the Employment Coaching Podcast, Claire tackles a topic that has become increasingly controversial in employment support: volunteering.With IPS firmly established as a Place-Then-Train model, many services have concluded that supporting clients into volunteering is no longer appropriate.But is that really what the IPS model says - or have we misunderstood it?Claire explores where this confusion came from, why volunteering is not the same as pre-vocational training or sheltered employment, and how short, time-limited volunteering placements can support - rather than derail - competitive job outcomes.Drawing on years of practice and service leadership, she shares three practical rules for using volunteering ethically and effectively within IPS.This episode is likely to spark debate!********************Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter:https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching

In this episode, Claire is joined by Mitch Mitchell, a training coordinator and long-standing supported employment practitioner, for a thoughtful conversation about what “everyone can work” really means in practice.Drawing on decades of experience across supported employment and SEQF, Mitch shares real examples of working with people who don’t present as “immediately employable” - and how creativity, employer engagement and a strong belief in vocational profiling can open doors that might otherwise remain closed.Together, Claire and Mitch explore unconscious bias, organisational fit, employer engagement, and why, under pressure, practitioners sometimes drift away from the very principles that underpin supported employment.This episode is a timely reminder of why creativity, confidence and belief still matter - perhaps now more than ever.Want to know more about Mitch’s training courses?Email him at: [email protected] or find him on LinkedIn.********************Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter:https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching

Have you ever given a client really solid advice - only to watch them ignore it completely?In this episode, Claire explores why this happens so often in employment coaching, and why trying to persuade, push, or discharge clients rarely leads to lasting change.Using a real client example, Claire looks at the psychology behind resistance, avoidance and self-sabotage, and explains how responding with curiosity rather than judgement can unlock insight, engagement and progress.This episode offers practical ways to work with clients who seem “stuck” - without damaging the coaching relationship.********************Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter:https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching

As 2025 comes to an end, most employment specialists are helping clients tie up loose ends, set goals, and prepare for the new year.But how often do we pause and offer ourselves the same support?In this final episode of the year, we turn the spotlight back onto you - your role, your wellbeing, and your future career goals.We explore why employment advisers often overlook their own development, how constant busyness masks burnout, and why an end-of-year “career stock take” is essential.From celebrating your wins (even the small, unseen ones) to reassessing boundaries and work pressures, this episode guides you through a gentle but meaningful reflection on your year.Whether you're listening before Christmas or in early January, this conversation offers space to breathe, reset, and consider what you want from your work and wellbeing in 2026.It’s your turn to reflect - because your career matters too.********************Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter:https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching

In this episode, Claire looks at what really happens after a client starts work - and why so many people fall out of jobs that looked perfect on paper.Using a real client story, she explains the idea of the psychological contract: the unwritten expectations between employer and employee that can be more powerful than the written contract.You’ll learn how to spot when that contract has been broken, why it leads to sickness, disengagement and resignations, and how employment coaches can help clients have honest conversations that repair trust and keep them in work.Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter:https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching

In this episode, Claire explores a question that comes up time and time again: does age matter in employment coaching?From young adults making their first big life choices to mid-career clients juggling family and burnout, and older workers navigating age discrimination and retirement decisions - age can shape the coaching conversation in powerful ways.Claire breaks down common career challenges at different life stages, why age differences between coach and client don’t have to be a barrier, and how curiosity, empathy and good coaching skills bridge any generational gap.Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter:https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching

In this episode, Claire explains why trawling through job vacancies is not only a waste of time for employment advisers - it can actually harm your clients’ confidence and mental health. Instead, she introduces a far more effective approach: helping clients access the hidden job market.You’ll learn the difference between job searching and job development, how to build employer relationships, and a simple five-step networking process that even the most introverted clients can use to find real opportunities.Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter: https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching

In this episode, Claire explores how the people and environments around our clients - including partners, parents, colleagues and even social media algorithms - can shape, sway, or even derail their career decisions. Using real-life examples, Claire explains why influence isn’t inherently bad, but becomes problematic when it pulls clients away from their values, goals or identity.Discover practical strategies to help clients recognise external influence, explore whether it’s positive or negative, and make confident, informed career decisions based on their wants - not someone else’s expectations.Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter:https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching

In this episode, Claire explores one of the most common traps in employment support: doing too much for our clients. From writing CVs and calling employers, to “just quickly” fixing things for people in our personal lives, we often jump in with the best intentions - but unintentionally undermine learning, confidence, and long-term progress.Claire shares why stepping back, teaching skills, and building an internal locus of control can dramatically improve client outcomes, reduce reliance on services, and help advisers hit targets more sustainably.Expect practical questions, mindset shifts, and a simple technique you can use in your very next coaching conversation.Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter:https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching

Struggling to get the right referrals into your service? You’re not alone. With so many new employment programmes launching - from Connect to Work to local employability contracts - building a steady flow of quality referrals can feel like a constant challenge.In this episode of The Employment Coaching Podcast, Dr Claire Wrynne shares practical, stress-free strategies for generating referrals that actually lead to job outcomes.Drawing on over 20 years of experience in supported employment, she explores how to shift your focus from marketing to participants to building strong referral partnerships with the organisations who already work with your ideal clients.You’ll learn five key steps to improve your referral process - from clarifying what you want partners to do, to making referrals easy, rewarding collaboration, and communicating benefits from their perspective.Whether you’re an employment adviser or managing a new service contract, this episode will help you create a smoother, more effective referral pipeline.Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter: https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching

We talk a lot about client engagement in employment support - but what about when it’s time to say goodbye?This week, Claire talks about how (and when) to discharge clients from your caseload.Whether you’re grappling with time-unlimited contracts or just struggling to make space, this episode is packed with practical advice (and a bit of tough love!).Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter: https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching

In this week’s episode, Claire talks about some of the pros and cons of using LinkedIn as an employment adviser, and why you really need to have a LinkedIn / social media policy in your employment team.Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter: https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching

Ever wondered if your job title changes how your clients see you?In this episode, Claire dives into a surprisingly powerful coaching conversation: Does it make a difference if you call yourself an Employment Adviser, Specialist or Coach?Listen now and find out why this seemingly small detail might be doing more work than you think!Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter: https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching

This Mental Health Awareness Week, Claire talks about something we don’t prioritise enough at work: community.In this episode, Claire explores the idea of group coaching - what it is (and isn’t), how it can be used in employment services, and why it might be just what your team needs.Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter: https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching

Ever wonder why some clients seem to get stuck - even when they have a job goal?In this week’s episode, Claire introduces the FAR Test - a simple tool to check your client’s goal is effective.Plus, you’ll hear a 6-step career counselling process that fits perfectly within IPS.Tune in now and see how FAR your clients can really go!Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter: https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching

What if the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model doesn’t suit everyone?That’s the question Claire Wrynne set out to answer 20 years ago!The Individual Career Management (ICM) model was developed by Claire, to address some of the limitations she found with the IPS model.20 years on, there are still employment specialists following the ICM approach.Find out why, in this week’s episode!Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter: https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching

Are your clients ghosting you?Client engagement can be tricky when you’re working with a complex caseload.In this episode, Claire covers:​Small things that build big trust​Powerful questions to make clients stop and think​Common traps that push clients awayTune in now to discover how to boost your client engagement with 5 simple tips!Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter: https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching

We all talk about employability… But do we really know what it means?And should we even be measuring it?In this episode, Claire challenges some common assumptions and shares 10 employability indicators that actually help clients move into work.Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter: https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching

Contracting is a key part of the employment coaching process. Discover how to do it correctly in this episode!Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter: https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching

In this week’s episode, Claire teaches us how to use the ‘Importance / Confidence Ruler’ to help increase clients’ motivation.This easy-to-use tool is often used in coaching and motivational interviewing to increase commitment to change. No prior experience necessary!Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter: https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching

They don’t teach this kinda stuff in school!In this week’s episode, uncover 5 top tips for helping your clients create a winning application form.Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter: https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching

You may be familiar with the 8 core principles of the IPS model, but do you know their true meaning?In this episode, Claire separates the facts from the fiction and explains why some of the principles have been misinterpreted.Tune in to find out if you’re on the right track!Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter: https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching

This episode looks in detail at the employment specialist role in a supported employment model and how this might differ to the role of an employment specialist in a welfare-to-work service.The governments new Connect To Work programme brings opportunity to test new service models. Will a hybrid model work best? Or will a completely new model be developed?Get in touch with your thoughts!Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter: https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching

Ever wondered if you have too little or too many clients on your caseload?Stay tuned… in this episode, Claire reveals a formula for calculating your ideal caseload size!Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter: https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching

In this week’s episode, Claire talks about the challenges of working with clients that have unrealistic job goals.Claire explains how to help your clients change without telling them what to do!Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter: https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching

In this week’s episode, Claire explains how to use the GROW model to enhance your coaching practice and get more from your client sessions.Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter: https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching

This is a commonly debated topic: how much employer engagement work should you do?!Spoiler alert: it depends!In this episode, Claire gives 5 key questions to help you decide if employer engagement is needed for your clients.Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter: https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching

In this second episode on clinical integration, Claire explains some of the barriers to building and maintaining relationships, and gives practical tips on how to overcome them.Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter: https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching

‘Clinical Integration’ is one of the key principles of the IPS model. But what does it actually mean, and why is it so important in supported employment?Find out in this week’s podcast - part 1 of two episodes on clinical integration.Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter: https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching

In this week’s episode, Claire explains the pitfalls of ‘time unlimited support’ and discusses how many sessions you should offer your clients as an employment coach.Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter: https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching

In this week’s episode, Claire talks about the definition of employer engagement - what it means and why it’s important to differentiate between the two types of employer engagement often found in supported employment services. Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter: https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching

Are you overwhelmed by referrals? In this episode, Claire gives some tips on how to manage this common problem. Hint: the answer is not a waiting list!Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter: https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching

In this weeks episode, Claire gives an example of how to help your clients change their behaviour. The key is a non-directive approach.Listen to how you can follow this approach in your employment coaching practice.Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter: https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching

This episode contains a summary of 6 essential skills needed in employment coaching.Take some time to reflect on your own professional practice: Are you using these skills? And do any of them need refining?Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter: https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching

In this episode, Dr Claire Wrynne explains how employment coaching is different to traditional employment advice, and gives 6 characteristics to look out for in your coaching practice.Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter: https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching

Dr Claire Wrynne introduces the brand new Employment Coaching podcast.Listen to find out who this podcast is for, and the types of topics that will be discussed.Stay tuned for the first episode!…Get weekly employment coaching tips with our free newsletter: https://careerology.kit.com/employment-coaching