10 Best Career Coaches To Follow In 2025 (and An AI Coach You Shouldn’t Miss)

Career coaches provide personalized guidance in a rapidly changing job market. In 2025, the world of work is evolving faster than ever. Technologies like AI are reshaping industries, remote and hybrid work have become standard, and professionals are navigating more frequent career changes. Amid these shifts, career coaching has emerged as a vital resource for people at all levels – no longer just for top executives, but for anyone facing layoffs, transitions, or the new demands of a hybrid work revolution. The right career coach can act as a mentor, motivator, and strategist, helping you unlock your potential and adapt to the modern job market’s challenges.

Criteria for Selecting the Top Coaches

With so many experts offering guidance, how did we choose the 10 best career coaches to follow in 2025? We used a few key criteria:

• Impact and Track Record: Each coach has helped hundreds to thousands of professionals advance their careers.
• Specialization: Each brings a unique niche or industry focus from tech to leadership to early-career advice.
• Global Reach: Coaches span North America, Europe, and Asia, serving clients worldwide.
• Content and Engagement: These coaches actively share valuable job tips and insights on platforms like LinkedIn, YouTube, and podcasts.
• Client Focus: We identify the ideal audience each coach is best suited to help – from students to executives.

Now, let’s dive into the top 10 career coaches you should be following in 2025 for inspiration, practical advice, and proven strategies for career success.

The Top 10 Career Coaches to Follow in 2025

1. Liz Ryan – The Human-Centered Career Guide

Specialty: Reinventing careers with a human-centric approach; HR insight for job seekers.

About: Liz Ryan is a former Fortune 500 HR executive turned career coach and the founder of Human Workplace, a coaching firm and movement that champions the “human side” of work. She encourages professionals to break traditional career rules and be authentic in their job search. Liz is the author of “Reinvention Roadmap: Break the Rules to Get the Job You Want and Career You Deserve,” a bestselling guide that has inspired countless professionals to pursue fulfilling careers. She’s widely recognized as a trailblazer in career coaching – named one of LinkedIn’s Top Voices and even honored with a Stevie Award for Women in Business.

Why Follow: If you’re looking for empowering, often unconventional career advice, Liz’s content is a must. She shares frank insights on navigating job hunts and workplaces with confidence and humor. Her approach is especially helpful for mid-career professionals who feel stuck or disillusioned by corporate norms. Following Liz (on her lively LinkedIn posts or Human Workplace blog) will give you bold career guidance to reinvent your path on your terms.

Where to Find Her: Connect with Liz via Human Workplace or follow her on LinkedIn – her articles and posts regularly go viral among job seekers.

2. Sarah Johnston – The Executive Career Strategist

Specialty: Executive job searches, resume writing, and career transitions.

About: Sarah Johnston is the founder of Briefcase Coach, a top-rated executive resume writing and career coaching service. A former corporate recruiter, she has insider knowledge of what employers look for. Sarah has empowered professionals (especially senior managers and C-suite candidates) to navigate tough job transitions, craft compelling personal brands, and ace their interviews. Her firm was named the “#1 Executive Resume Writing Service” for experienced executives by The Balance Careers. Sarah herself has gained global recognition, earning accolades like LinkedIn Top Voice in the careers space and a spot on HR Weekly’s list of 100 Most Influential People in HR.

Why Follow: Sarah’s advice is gold for anyone aiming for high-level roles or making a big career change. She frequently shares tips on optimizing your resume, improving LinkedIn profiles, and negotiating executive offers. Despite her focus on executives, her insights on personal branding and strategic networking are valuable to professionals at any level. If you want structured, practical guidance rooted in real hiring expertise, following Sarah will keep you on track.

Where to Find Her: Check out the Briefcase Coach website for resources and client success stories, and follow Sarah on LinkedIn for regular posts and articles on career strategy.

3. Lakrisha Davis – The LinkedIn Branding Expert

Specialty: Personal branding on LinkedIn, career transition coaching, and diversity empowerment.

About: Lakrisha Davis is a visionary career coach known for her expertise in LinkedIn branding and transformative career guidance. A former award-winning career development coach in the corporate world, she now helps ambitious people navigate the broken hiring system and land their dream jobs. Lakrisha’s approach blends job search strategy with personal branding – she even founded NextUp Resume, a service to polish your professional image. Her impact is evident: she’s been featured on NBC, CNBC, and LinkedIn News, and was a founding member of the Newsweek Expert Forum for Coaches. She has earned numerous honors, including being named a Top 10 LinkedIn Influencer by Business Anecdote in 2023, one of Brainz Magazine’s Top 13 Career Coaches to Follow, and part of the CORE 100 Most Influential Blacks Today.

Why Follow: If you want to boost your visibility and opportunities via LinkedIn, Lakrisha is the coach to watch. She often shares advice on building an authentic personal brand online, networking effectively, and overcoming bias in hiring. Her style is motivational and down-to-earth, which resonates especially with early- and mid-career professionals, including women and BIPOC professionals looking for inspiration. Following Lakrisha will teach you how to leverage LinkedIn and personal branding to accelerate your career.

Where to Find Her: Visit LakrishaDavis.com to learn about her coaching programs and follow her on LinkedIn for regular branding and career tips (she’s very active on LinkedIn!).

4. Stephanie Nuesi – The Gen Z Career Guru

Specialty: Early-career coaching, content creation for career growth, and empowering first-generation professionals.

About: Stephanie Nuesi is a first-generation Latina who has become a global career advisor for students and young professionals. She founded Max Up, a career consulting firm focused on helping college students and recent grads land great jobs. Stephanie’s energy and relatable advice have made her a social media sensation – her career tips on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok have amassed over 150 million views! She has spoken at 600+ workshops for Fortune 500 companies, universities, and organizations, sharing strategies on everything from résumé writing to personal finance for newcomers in the workforce. Her contributions have been recognized widely: Stephanie has been featured on Fox News, ABC News, Telemundo, and more, and was named a LinkedIn Top Voice. She’s even been honored as one of the Most Powerful Latinas in 2022 by ALPFA, and a Forbes Top 50 Women in Tech.

Why Follow: Few people speak to Gen Z and millennial career challenges as effectively as Stephanie. If you’re navigating internships, your first job, or trying to stand out as a young professional, her content is full of actionable advice. She often discusses how to build confidence as a first-gen professional, how to network when you’re just starting out, and how to use content creation (like LinkedIn posts) to boost your career. Following Stephanie will give you 24/7 access to a stream of motivating tips to help you overcome early-career hurdles.

Where to Find Her: Follow Stephanie on LinkedIn or Instagram where she shares career hacks and success stories. You can also check out her company Max Up’s site for coaching services tailored to students and new grads.

5. Jonathan Javier & Jerry Lee (Wonsulting) – Turning Underdogs into Winners

Specialty: Job search coaching for non-traditional candidates; helping “underdogs” land jobs in top companies.

About: Wonsulting is a career coaching startup co-founded by Jonathan Javier (CEO) and Jerry Lee (COO). Together, this dynamic duo has a mission: “turning underdogs into winners.” They specialize in helping job seekers from underrepresented or non-traditional backgrounds secure roles at Fortune 500 companies. Jonathan and Jerry draw from their own experiences in tech and consulting to teach others how to overcome barriers like coming from a non-Ivy League school or switching careers without direct experience. They offer everything from résumé revamps to networking scripts and TikTok job-search tips. Thanks to their innovative strategies and commitment to diversity in hiring, Wonsulting has earned widespread recognition – including being listed on Forbes 30 Under 30 for their impact in education.

Why Follow: Wonsulting’s content is a goldmine for job seekers who feel like underdogs. Perhaps you’re a career changer, an immigrant, or from an unrelated academic background – following Wonsulting will show you creative ways to market yourself and get noticed by employers. They frequently share success stories of clients who went from no responses to multiple offers, plus free resources on mastering ATS-friendly resumes and cold outreach. Their upbeat, “you got this!” tone is especially encouraging for recent grads and anyone facing an uphill battle in the job hunt.

Where to Find Them: Follow Wonsulting on LinkedIn and Instagram for daily tips. You can also visit the Wonsulting website to access their blog, free guides, and information on their coaching programs.

6. Madeline Mann – The YouTube Job Search Star

Specialty: Rapid-fire job search tips, resume and interview coaching through video content.

About: Madeline Mann is the creator of the wildly popular “Self Made Millennial” YouTube channel, where her fun, laser-focused career advice videos have millions of views. A former HR & recruiting professional, Madeline has a knack for breaking down the hiring process and showing people how to market themselves as top candidates. She’s famous for the concept of turning job seekers into “job shoppers,” meaning instead of desperately applying everywhere, you end up with multiple companies vying to hire you. Madeline’s work has been featured on ABC’s Good Morning America, The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and more, and she has collected thousands of success stories from people who landed dream jobs using her tips. In addition to YouTube, she offers courses and coaching, and often posts insightful threads on LinkedIn.

Why Follow: If you prefer practical tips delivered in an entertaining way, Madeline is your coach. Her advice is extremely actionable – from exact phrases to use in an interview to modern resume formatting tricks. Job seekers at any stage can benefit, but her content is especially relatable for early and mid-career folks who grew up in the digital age. By following Madeline, you’ll gain confidence in your job search techniques and likely have a laugh or two along the way (her humor and energy make the learning fun).

Where to Find Her: Subscribe to the Self Made Millennial YouTube channel for new videos packed with job search hacks. Also, follow Madeline on LinkedIn – she shares quick tips and often interacts with her followers there.

7. Sho Dewan – The Social Media Career Coach

Specialty: Salary negotiation, career growth for young professionals, and leveraging social media for personal branding.

About: Sho Dewan is the founder and CEO of Workhap, an award-winning career coaching company based in Asia. As a former recruiter and talent development manager, Sho provides insider HR secrets to help people get hired, get paid, and get happy in their careers. He has built a massive online community – over 1.5 million followers across LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok (@workhap), and more – by posting daily career advice videos and posts. Sho was recognized as a LinkedIn Top Voice in Job Search & Careers and is also a member of the Forbes Coaches Council. His work has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Business Insider, and Harvard Business Review. Sho’s content often focuses on negotiating higher salaries, switching careers, and encouraging young professionals not to “settle” for less than they deserve.

Why Follow: Sho’s energetic and empowering style is perfect for young professionals and mid-career folks seeking a confidence boost. He frequently shares negotiation scripts (so you can ask for that raise or offer with less fear), as well as general career motivation and trends. Because he engages on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, his tips are concise and up-to-date with the latest workplace buzz. Following Sho will make you feel like you have a savvy friend in your corner, cheering you on to land jobs you love and advocating for yourself at work.

Where to Find Him: Follow Sho Dewan on LinkedIn and check out Workhap’s website for blogs and resources. On social media, look up @workhap on Instagram/TikTok for quick-hit video tips that are both informative and entertaining.

8. Margaret Buj – The Interview and Salary Negotiation Pro

Specialty: Interview coaching and helping professionals secure promotions & pay raises.

About: Margaret Buj is a London-based career coach and one of the UK’s leading interview coaches. With a background as an international recruiter, she has helped over 1,000 clients across Europe and beyond land jobs and get paid what they’re worth. Margaret provides personalized coaching on how to excel in interviews – from mastering tricky questions to using storytelling to highlight your strengths. She’s been featured in The Financial Times and Forbes for her expertise. In addition, she often advises on salary negotiation tactics, drawing on her recruitment experience to show candidates how to confidently negotiate offers.

Why Follow: If the interview stage or salary talk is your stumbling block, Margaret’s guidance is invaluable. Her content tends to include very practical interview tips, CV and résumé advice, and negotiation scripts. For example, she might share the top 3 questions to ask at the end of an interview, or how to reframe a weakness into a strength. Following Margaret will help you present your best self in high-pressure situations and ultimately advance your career (and earnings) with her proven techniques.

Where to Find Her: Visit Margaret’s site Interview-Coach.co.uk for articles and service info, and follow her on LinkedIn for regular nuggets of interview wisdom. She also has a YouTube channel with interview advice for those who prefer video learning.

9. Dr. J. Victor McGuire – The Executive Coach for Diversity and Inclusion

Specialty: Executive leadership coaching, career transitions for senior professionals, and championing BIPOC talent.

About: J. Victor McGuire, Ph.D., is a renowned executive career coach and leadership development expert with decades of experience. After a career that included working with high-profile clients and organizations, he founded Coaching For Everyone (CFE) – a non-profit that offers free coaching to traditionally underserved Black, Latinx, and Indigenous communities. Dr. McGuire focuses on helping leaders (especially those from underrepresented groups) unlock their leadership potential and navigate challenges at the top echelons of corporate life. He’s a strengths-based coach, meaning he helps clients identify and leverage their unique strengths to excel professionally. Through CFE, he’s also improving access to professional coaching for those who might not otherwise afford it, reflecting his passion for diversity and inclusion in career development.

Why Follow: For senior professionals or aspiring leaders, Victor’s insights are powerful. He often addresses topics like overcoming imposter syndrome in the C-suite, culturally aware leadership, and strategies for career advancement when you’re the “only one in the room” (be it the only woman, only person of color, etc.). His perspective is scholarly yet very approachable, blending research with real-world advice. Following Dr. McGuire will give you strategic guidance on advancing your career and remind you of the bigger picture – that supporting others and lifting as you climb is part of true leadership.

Where to Find Him: Learn more about his mission at the Coaching For Everyone website or via his personal site JVictorMcGuirePhd.com. Follow him on LinkedIn to read his posts on executive coaching, inclusive leadership, and news about CFE’s community initiatives.

10. Linda Raynier – The Career Strategist on YouTube

Specialty: Resume & job interview mastery, career clarity coaching, and motivational career advice.

About: Linda Raynier is a career strategist and YouTuber who has built a loyal following by delivering no-nonsense career advice. A Canadian CPA by training (she started her career as an accountant at Ernst & Young), Linda transitioned into recruiting and then into career coaching – so she understands corporate careers from multiple angles. Through her YouTube channel (with nearly 1 million subscribers) and her coaching programs, Linda has helped thousands of professionals worldwide land jobs that align with their true passions. She covers topics like how to write a resume that stands out, answer common and tricky interview questions, and even how to find your “purpose” at work. Linda’s work has garnered widespread recognition; she’s seen as a trusted resource for navigating the modern job market. She’s also a sought-after speaker who has addressed audiences across North America on career development.

Why Follow: If you prefer a mix of tactical advice and uplifting motivation, Linda provides both. Her interview tips (like exact examples of effective answers) are extremely popular. At the same time, she often delves into mindset – encouraging you to find clarity about what you really want in your career so you don’t just chase any job. Following Linda’s channel and content will equip you with the skills to ace job applications and the confidence to pursue fulfilling work. Her style is encouraging, clear, and great for anyone who feels “stuck” or unsure about the next career step.

Where to Find Her: Subscribe to Linda Raynier’s YouTube channel for a library of free career tutorials. You can also visit LindaRaynier.com to learn about her coaching services and courses. Follow her on LinkedIn or Instagram for snippets of advice and motivational content to keep you inspired.

Bonus: JobsChat.ai — Your Always-On AI Career Coach

In addition to these fantastic human coaches, there’s another coach in your corner available 24/7: JobsChat.ai. This AI-powered career assistant is like having a personal career coach who never sleeps. Whether you’re tweaking your resume at midnight or preparing for an interview early in the morning, JobsChat.ai is there to provide personalized job search help, resume tips, and interview prep whenever you need it.

It’s not a replacement for human insight – it’s a perfect complementary tool. For example, after a coaching session with Sarah Johnston or Linda Raynier, you can head to JobsChat.ai to refine your resume, rehearse interview answers, or get instant feedback. You’ll get immediate access to curated job advice, tailored to your career goals.

Check out our article on How To Stay Motivated Without Losing Your Mind for deeper insights.

How to Choose the Right Coach for You

With so many great options, you might be wondering: How do I pick the right career coach for my needs? Here are a few tips to guide your decision:

1. Identify Your Goals: Promotion? Career change? Job search? Choose based on specialization.
2. Consider Their Audience: Are they focused on your level—entry, mid, or exec?
3. Research Their Content: Follow their free resources like blogs, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
4. Check Testimonials and Credentials: Look at success stories and relevant coaching certifications.
5. Consider Logistics and Budget: Explore books, courses, or group coaching if private sessions are too costly.
6. Chemistry Matters: Use discovery calls to assess fit – comfort and trust are key.

And remember: it doesn’t have to be a choice between AI and humans. Tools like JobsChat.ai are a powerful supplement to traditional coaching that helps you to get hired faster.

Conclusion: Invest in Your Career Growth

Finding the right coach – human or AI – can transform your professional journey. The ten coaches highlighted above are among the best in the business for 2025. Whether you follow their free content or invest in their services, each one brings a unique lens on building a career that’s successful, aligned, and future-ready.

So take the next step. Explore their content. Try JobsChat.ai for quick, on-demand support. Your career deserves the best tools and guidance available – and in 2025, you have access to both worlds. Here’s to reaching your goals!

Looking for more career resources? Browse the full JobsChat blog for expert guides on resumes, interviews, AI tools, and more.