I recently read an article on CNNMoney called Should you hire a career coach? In it, the author weighs the pros and cons of hiring a coach to help you find a job.

While the author focused mainly on experienced job hunters, the issue of career coaches for Entry Level Job seekers is an interesting one.

However, it is my belief that New Grads are better off job searching on their own instead of paying a coach to guide them.

Here’s why:

• Access to services: Chances are you have a dedicated career specialist at your school in the career center who is waiting to help you free of charge.
• Lack of cash: Considering the rates most career coaches charge, it’s likely not feasible for most new grads.
• Availability of free resources: There are plenty of free resources on the net to help you on your way (like Gradversity!)
• Your experience level: Most career coaches I’ve met focus on experienced job hunters as it gives them more experience from which to draw upon. Not your fault, but a reality nonetheless.

Ultimately, the author said it best:

But sessions average $161 an hour, according to the International Coach Federation trade group, and clients typically use three to six visits. So explore free options first. Most colleges offer their alumni gratis meetings, by phone or in-person, with the trained staffers in their career offices. Professional organizations also sometimes offer seminars to members.

Perhaps a career coach will be right for you in the future, but as a new grad, there are better options.

Related posts:

1. Career Center Myths
2. Rescinded and Deferred Entry Level Jobs
3. Entry Level Jobs Paying Less in 2009
4. Finding Entry Level Jobs On Wall Street
5. How To Find An Entry Level Job In 2010