19 free resources on this topic. Everything here is free and hand-picked. You can also search within this topic.
A free directory of 2,500+ curated job search resources — job boards, coaching and training — plus a Quick Start Checklist. No account or paywall.
Why I recommend it: A handy starting map. It is a directory, so check each linked service yourself — some of the places it points to charge money.
Personal hub of Phil Terry, founder of Collaborative Gain and co-creator of Never Search Alone, the volunteer-led movement offering free job-search support groups.
Why I recommend it: The free part is Never Search Alone (now at NeverSearchAlone.org). His executive coaching and product councils listed on the same site are paid.
The resource hub of the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals: toolkits, training opportunities, webinars and certification information for people who work in workforce development, employment services and career coaching.
Why I recommend it: This is for practitioners rather than job seekers — useful if you coach, run programs or work in an employment services agency. The hub pages are open to read, but a number of the toolkits, recordings and the certification track sit behind membership, so expect a login wall part-way in. Ask them what membership costs before you commit.
A mentorship platform that matches you with a mentor working in your field — design, product, engineering, marketing and more. Signing up and your first session are free.
Why I recommend it: Free to join and the first session is free; ADPList also promotes paid plans and some mentors charge, so check the mentor page before booking. Free-tier value: browse mentors, book open calendar slots, ask for a portfolio or interview review.
Mouse is a nonprofit that brings computer science and creative technology learning to students, and this is its open volunteer intake form. You pick your areas of expertise — software engineering, design/UX, data and AI, product management, hardware, cybersecurity, career coaching or entrepreneurship — plus your availability; applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, followed by a background check and orientation.
Why I recommend it: Volunteering like this is one of the cheapest ways to build a portfolio of real work and references while you are between roles — and it reads well on a resume.
A ready-made ChatGPT assistant for career direction — talk through where you are, what you want next and the steps in between. Usable with a free ChatGPT account.
Strada Education Foundation's five principles for career guidance that actually leads to good jobs: centered on outcomes, driven by student agency, foundational and universal, rooted in relationships, and informed by data. Free download, endorsed by dozens of national education and workforce organizations.
Why I recommend it: If you advise students or run a program, these five principles are the cleanest checklist for whether your coaching is working.
Free iPhone app for approved Leland coaches to manage their coaching business on the go: respond to client messages, accept intro calls and orders, and view basic client info.
Why I recommend it: Useful if you are already a Leland coach and want a simple mobile inbox for leads and clients. If you are looking for coaching as a job seeker, use joinleland.com instead.
Take a free 2-minute diagnostic to get a clear read on what is actually holding you back in your career. The site also offers paid coaching packages.
From the site: Laid off? Expecting a RIF? Ready for your 'What's Next?' Take a free 2-minute diagnostic and get a clear read on what is actually holding you back.
Why I recommend it: Free diagnostic tool; paid coaching packages are also available.
AI career coaching assistant that helps you plan next moves, prep for interviews, and pressure-test career decisions.
Why I recommend it: I use tools like this as a sparring partner, not an oracle. Bring your own judgment to whatever it suggests.
A talent marketplace and community for under-supported tech talent, offering career guidance, job opportunities, and mentorship.
Why I recommend it: A career platform built for people who are under-supported in tech. If you're looking for a community that understands non-traditional paths, start here.
A registration page for a free career masterclass covering job search strategy and positioning.
Why I recommend it: Free masterclasses are usually the front door to a paid program. Take the free part, decide about the rest later.
A recruiter-run roundup of career coaches and resume writers, with plain talk about what each type of help actually does and when you do not need to pay for it.
Why I recommend it: I like that this comes from someone inside recruiting. Read it before you hire anyone to rewrite your resume.
A free resource page with career search and interview materials, templates, and guidance from a career coach.
Why I recommend it: Another coach giving real material away. Take the templates, skip anything that pushes you toward a paid upsell you do not need.
A coach's free resource page with career and leadership guides, templates, and reading recommendations.
Why I recommend it: I keep an eye on what other coaches give away for free. There is usable material here without a call booked or a card entered.
Recruiting tools, interview prep, and 1:1 investment banking mentors for students targeting IB, PE, and elite finance roles.
Why I recommend it: If you are targeting investment banking, private equity, or elite finance roles, StreetSmart gives you structured prep and access to mentors who have actually worked in those rooms.
Career coaching and consulting practice offering free 1:1 coaching sessions and a Slack community, with a focus on paying support forward.
Why I recommend it: If you are not ready to hire a coach, start with free communities and single sessions. Test the chemistry before committing to a package.
NCDA article offering an Ability, Connection, and Expression framework for finding the real barrier behind a stalled search.
Why I recommend it: Details: run yourself through the three gaps before applying to more jobs — skills, network, or storytelling. The fix is different for each.
Executive-level career strategy from a 10+ year career coaching practice.
In plain terms: This site offers resume writing and career strategy services tailored for senior leaders and executives. You can get help creating leadership resumes, board bios, and LinkedIn profiles to support your next career move.
Why I recommend it: Strong on senior and executive positioning if you have outgrown the standard resume advice.
