Why I Became a Coach - My Story

When I asked a couple of friends what I’m known for, they didn’t mention job titles or achievements. They said I’m supportive, encouraging, caring, trustworthy, and enthusiastic.

They said I always see the best in others, am honest and transparent, and give feedback that helps people grow. Alongside these personal qualities, I’m highly skilled at working with systems and solving complex problems, navigating challenges with clarity and efficiency.

At first, I thought: “That just sounds like me.” But the more I reflected, the more I realised — these traits aren’t just “nice to have.” They’ve been the thread running through my entire career and the reason I became a coach.

My Career Journey

I’ve spent over 15 years in HR, recruitment, and operations — across the public sector and SMEs — in roles that involved coaching teams, supporting managers, and leading projects that improved recruitment, engagement, and performance.

I’ve also led from the business side. As a Regional Manager for a franchise group, I coached franchisees to grow their businesses, trained new leaders, and supported new operators to thrive. Early in my career, in customer support and employment services, I discovered my knack for guiding people through challenges — whether it was a tough recruitment process, giving constructive feedback, or building confidence to step into leadership. My favourite part of leadership has always been seeing people flourish in their careers.

Eight years ago, I started career coaching part-time — helping professionals who felt stuck to find clarity, rebuild confidence, and take back control of their careers. I’ve also spent a lot of time coaching football, including a recent season with two junior-grade top finishes and a cup tournament win with my U-13s, and adult players as time allows. Coaching others in sport and business has taught me that growth, confidence, and resilience are universal.

The Turning Point

Over the years, I noticed the same patterns:

• Leaders under pressure, unsure how to support their teams

• New managers promoted but not prepared

• Mid-career professionals feeling stuck or undervalued

• Businesses struggling to retain and engage their best people

I realised people don’t just need policies or processes. They need encouragement. Honest feedback. Someone who sees the best in them and helps them grow. Energy when things feel hard, and perspective when setbacks happen. That’s when I knew coaching wasn’t just a side gig — it was my purpose.

Why Full-Time Coaching

This year, I launched my coaching practice full-time.

For organisations, I help:

• Reduce costly turnover

• Strengthen leadership capability

• Improve team engagement

• Manage or train hiring processes for better hires, stronger teams, and less stress

For mid-career professionals, I help:

• Rebuild confidence and navigate setbacks

• Clarify career direction and secure new roles

• Develop a total job search strategy: CVs, LinkedIn, networking, applications, interviews, and follow-up — helping people get noticed in a tough market

The traits my friends highlighted — supportive, encouraging, caring, trustworthy, enthusiastic — now fuel my coaching. They’re not just who I am; they’re what solves my clients’ problems.

What Clients Experience

• More interviews and opportunities by presenting candidates in their best light

• Confidence in articulating strengths to employers

• Rebuilt self-belief for those facing career uncertainty

• Comprehensive job search strategies and guidance

• Leadership growth and engagement for managers and teams

Clients leave feeling equipped, confident, and ready to achieve their career or organisational goals.

My Mission

I became a coach because careers and workplaces don’t have to be a grind. Leaders can thrive instead of burning out. Mid-career professionals can find clarity instead of feeling stuck. Teams can perform because they feel supported, encouraged, and guided.

If my strengths can help unlock that in others, I know I’m doing the work I was always meant to do.

Ready to take the next step?

Whether you’re looking to transform your organisation’s recruitment practices or navigate your own mid-career journey, let’s explore the possibilities together. Send me a DM or head to charlesryman.com to book your free strategy call today.