Career Coaching in Vancouver & Online for Professionals

What do you want to be known for?

Your options are not as limited as they seem. There is a way forward.

It's time to make real progres.

If not now, then when?

What it’s like to work together

Most people come in unsure. Within a few sessions, they’re clear on what they want and what to do next.

You’ve probably already named parts of it—self-doubt, imposter syndrome, overthinking. We work through it so you can move forward with confidence

Things start to make sense

We sort through your situation so you can clearly see what actually matters.

You see what to do next

Things click. You stop second-guessing and start seeing real options.

You actually move forward

You leave with clear direction and something concrete to act on.

From people I’ve worked with

John Fialkowski, Career Coach

Who you’ll be working with

I’m John Fialkowski, a career coach working with capable professionals who are ready to stop circling problems and start making real decisions about their work.

My approach is conversational, practical, and focused on helping things actually click. I ask the right questions, help you see things clearly, and work with you to turn that clarity into action.

Most people expect this to feel heavy or uncomfortable. It usually doesn’t. The conversations are engaging, practical, and often the first time things actually start to click.

About John

Start where this feels familiar

You do not need to have it all figured out before you start. These are the most common ways people begin working with me.

Executive Coaching

For people who want to take their work seriously and perform at a higher level.

This is not just for executives. It is for anyone who wants to think more clearly, lead better, and follow through on what matters. We focus on how you show up, how you make decisions, and how you move things forward.

Explore Executive Coaching

Career Change & Job Search Support

For when you are ready for something different and need a way to make it happen.

We figure out what direction actually makes sense for you, then turn it into a plan you can act on. From clarity to execution, you will not be guessing what to do next.

Find the Right Direction

Support for Toxic Work Environments

For when your work situation is wearing you down and you need a way out.

You do not have to navigate this alone. We figure out what is happening, what your options are, and how to move forward without making things worse.

Find a Way Forward

Let's start with a call

A conversation that helps you see things clearly and decide what to do next.

Start with a 20-minute intro call

Career Coaching with John

Podcast

Real stories, practical moves. Thoughtful conversations about work, roles, and change.

Listen on
Direct monthly support is available — Patreon still works too.
Astronaut FAQ icon

FAQ Quick - Written for real situations, not theory

This work isn’t about fixing you, pushing you, or forcing clarity before you’re ready. It’s about understanding what’s actually happening — and moving forward deliberately.

Not sure where to start? Begin with the first section.

Most questions fall into one of three categories: pressure, direction, or logistics.
When work is heavy
If you’re stressed, stuck, or running on fumes — start here.

What if I’m in a bad or toxic work environment?

Survival + strategy, not motivation.

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Then the goal isn’t motivation — it’s survival and strategy. We work on boundaries, perspective, and a clear stay/shift/exit plan so you stop losing yourself to the environment.
Sometimes the win is leaving. Sometimes it’s staying longer — but stronger.

Can you help me gain confidence and perform better at work?

Clarity, expectations, and execution.

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Yes. Performance coaching is about clarity and execution — not hype. We define expectations, tighten communication, and build practical habits so you can show up with more authority.
Confidence usually follows clarity — not the other way around.

I have ADHD — is this coaching a good fit?

Executive function support and momentum.

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Yes. Many clients are smart and capable, but struggle with follow-through, prioritization, or momentum. We build structure around executive function — breaking things into usable steps and creating external accountability.
This isn’t about “fixing” you. It’s about designing systems that work with your brain.
Fit and direction
This is the “is this for someone like me?” section.

Who is this coaching best for?

For people who don’t fit neatly into boxes.

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I work best with people who don’t fit neatly into professional boxes. You’ve built real skills and responsibility — but the obvious options don’t feel right, and you want an honest path forward.

How can career coaching actually help me?

Clarity, options, and practical movement.

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We get clear on what you want, what’s blocking you, and what your real options are. The goal is grounded decisions and practical movement — not generic advice.

What does the coaching process look like?

Focused sessions built around your reality.

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We start with a conversation. Then sessions are focused and practical — based on your real situation. No rigid program. We build momentum where it matters.

What if I don’t know what I want yet?

You don’t need clarity to start — we build it.

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That’s normal. Many people come to coaching because they can’t name what’s next. We build clarity first, then choose actions that make sense for you.

Can you help me develop an idea for a small business?

Pressure-test it before you invest time or money.

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Yes — especially if you have ideas but don’t know what’s realistic. We pressure-test the idea, clarify fit, and decide whether it’s a side project, transition plan, or leap.
Practical details
Logistics, objections, and how we work.

What’s the difference between coaching and training?

Training informs. Coaching applies.

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Training gives information. Coaching helps you apply it. We work with your specific situations so the changes actually stick.

Isn’t career coaching expensive?

You can start small and scale up.

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It can be — but it doesn’t have to be. You can start with a free 20-minute intro call, then choose a single 90-minute session ($225) or the Starter Package ($650) if you want momentum and accountability.

Can’t I just use AI to write my resume?

Yes — but make it sound like you.

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You can — and you probably should. The trick is avoiding the generic AI “same voice” resume. I’ll show you how to train AI on your story so it supports you instead of flattening you.

How do I book a session?

Book directly, or start with a quick intro call.

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Book directly, or start with a short introductory conversation to see if it’s a fit.

I have a friend who won’t stop complaining about their job. What do I do?

Advice stalls. A neutral third party helps.

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Advice usually stalls when someone doesn’t yet understand what they want or what’s keeping them stuck. If you want, we can start with a conversation and see if coaching would actually help.

Still unsure where you fit?

That’s usually a sign this conversation would help.

Book a 20-minute intro call

Insights and Advice from John 


When an Employee Records You Without Saying Anything

You don’t need something to be clearly wrong for it to start affecting a relationship at work. Sometimes it’s a small moment — something unexpected, something unspoken — and suddenly the dynamic shifts. Nothing has happened on paper, but something has changed.

The Emotional Weight of Being a Manager

A new manager faces the emotional reality of leadership: making decisions that affect other people’s livelihoods. This article explores why those moments feel so heavy—and how leaders learn to carry that responsibility without burning out.

Dealing with a PIP (Performance Improvement Plan

This exchange comes from a question about being placed on a Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) and the expectation of being fired. The employee described the stress of the process, feeling set up to fail, and wondering if there was anything they could do to protect themselves. The response explored options for navigating the situation, including negotiating severance, reframing the PIP, and shifting responsibility back onto management.

Career Coaching with John astronaut icon

Interested? Contact me for a 20 min FREE Consultation

How it works…

Let's start with a call, see if there is a fit. No two situations are alike, and I'd like to know about your situation, what is getting in your way, and what you need.

In our first call we will discuss the nature of your situation, what goals you might have, the barriers to your success, what excites you about work and what gets you down. I hope to be able to break down some of those barriers and start to work on your vision.

When we've established your vision, we will work on breaking down the barriers that stand in your way. Build the confidence to express your vision and find what you are looking for.

I'm based in Canada, but my clients come from all over the world. Don't be shy, it never hurts to talk.


Career Coaching with John
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada