Career Coaching with Shell
Testimonials

"10/10 stars and if I could give it 11 stars I would. This programme has been worth every single penny. The power really is in your hands to change your life and Shell is with you each step of the way. Where I started: I wanted to take a career step but didn't want it to be 'another shiny thing' where my passion fizzled. I was terrified of wasting the next decade making random career steps, hoping that one would be THE one that fit for me but never finding it. I found Shell's programme through a desperate search to ensure my next step to be purposeful, meeting my needs and setting me up for success, both now and in the future. And this programme has done just that. I'm at the end of the programme now and I have had so many mic-drop moments of realization and self-awareness to the point where I am crystal clear on what I want in my next step and, importantly, what I need. Not only that, but I've met some absolutely wonderful people who are in the same boat as me. It's been truly impactful to feel not as alone in the journey. I would highly recommend this programme if you're wanting clarity on your career and to take, not just a step in any direction, but the right one for you."

"I came to Shell's class feeling defeated, incompetent and dumb from my last career class. Taking Shell's class was the best decision I ever made for my career and regaining my self-esteem. I finally found someone who understood how my brain worked. My self-esteem came back and I am looking forward to my future. Thank you, Shell! 🙂 "

"Shell's master class has helped me redefine my role in my company and parse out my actual passion for my work from all the dreadful (to me) crud that still needs my attention. The ultimate goal is to hire and delegate and I believe I'll be even more successful because I'll be doing what I truly love. I went in thinking I needed a drastic career change and more schooling and all I really need is a few tweaks."

"Since I graduated undergrad, I've been meandering for a few years without much of an idea of what I really wanted to do in both the short term and the long term. I'd settle on a topic and then slowly lose interest as I realized it wasn't really what I wanted to do, but rather what was expected of me.

Recently, I've been interested in graphic design as a career, but I was worried it would be a passing phase again. I'd even applied to an online graduate program, which would have been very expensive.

However, during Shell's coaching sessions, she helped me develop techniques to hone in on what I actually desire in my career, and what skills I have that I could apply to my job. Importantly, I also gained a much better perspective on the conditions I desire and deserve in said career. And finally, my career is my own choice - it isn't about fulfilling someone's expectations, but fulfilling myself.

I highly recommend trying Shell's program, regardless of whether you're in work that makes you unhappy, or you're struggling to choose what you want to do."

"I had a great experience working with shell. Her class is a very methodical and straightforward way of taking a internal dive into what tasks I enjoyed most, where I wanted to be, my environment at work, who I wanted to work with and the material that fascinates me. I would highly recommend to any person who is feeling stuck and doesn't know which career/life path to travel down."

"Career coaching with Shell Mendelson was the kickstart I was looking for - and I got so much more along the way. Her eight-week course was an efficient and effective process to systematically explore, articulate, and distill both what inspires and drives me and also what conditions I need to thrive at work. Understanding myself with such unprecedented clarity created for me an empowering mind shift that was timely and incredibly valuable.

Shell guided our weekly class through her process step-by-step, arming us with tools, discussion, on-the-spot coaching, and encouraging anecdotes from her vast experience career coaching. Class discussion gave me countless lightbulb moments - many were just profound for me. It was really cool to see my classmates on the same journey of discovery and to learn from them as they gained new and deeper insights themselves.

The weekly homework assignments allowed us to dig into ourselves and put into practice what we learned, building on the previous weeks. The tools from Shell’s course are simple and highly effective to explore and sort career options from a job landscape much bigger than you think. Heads up: Shell’s tools are also highly effective at popping up unexpected opportunities…get ready!

If you’re thinking about what’s next in your career, wanting to be more intentional with your time and energy, then give Shell a call. Her 20+ years of career coaching across all life stages and countless industries is an awesome depth of experience to lean on. You’ll find that she tells it like it is and has a great sense of humor. Her class is engaging, insightful, efficient, and effective - bonus points for the cool classmates and community of class alums!"

"It's been a great experience so far! I enjoy the small class size and that Shell leads, not only with her knowledge, but also by encouraging group discussions. The group discussions have really helped me get curious with myself and provide me with fresh ideas from others' insight/input. The accountability definitely helps, of course, with my ADHD-prone procrastination. This class is much harder than I imagined and takes real work, but if you are willing to go all in, it will be rewarding. Halfway through, I am already looking deeper into myself than I ever have before, and that's saying something, since I have always considered myself self-reflective by nature. Thank you Shell!"

"Shell has helped transform the way I look at my career, uncover my true passions, and given me the opportunity to live a more fulfilled life. Making a career pivot, change, major or minor tweak, isn’t easy on the surface. Shell is truly a master at helping her clients uncover fundamental truths about themselves which enable better decision making regarding their careers. I only wish I hadn't waited 15 years and had taken this course in college. Working with Shell is one of the best decisions I’ve made in my adult life.

After years and years of feeling lost with regards to my career, I'm finally on a path that excites me and meets my needs. Shell's masterclass was exactly what I needed to help me narrow down my focus, ask myself the right questions, and find a career that I can stick with. I'm wrapping up the masterclass with an offer in my dream field. If you are an ADHDer struggling in your current job or if you are a student looking towards your future, I highly recommend Shell's services!

Shell has been invaluable in helping me clarify the things that are most important and meaningful to me in life, and to develop a direction to successfully move in professionally and personally. She has significantly accelerated my work to find the right landing spot as I pivot from sales executive leadership into sales consulting and entrepreneurship. Shell is great at coaching me through this transition, and provoking new thoughts and perspectives on the work that suits me most.
She helps me identify and quantify ways in which and how I can have the greatest impact when I follow my interests and work on the things that are most interesting to me, and then focus on how those might be able to help the people around me. Shell is a master at helping me expand my concept of what I might be able to accomplish in the world that is meaningful, so not only am I more engaged in my life, but I also have the potential to make a bigger contribution and a stronger connection with my family, my friends and the people I work with.

Daniel is doing great. He is very much enjoying his job and the company culture fits him very well. He has made great friends at work and also has friends from college and family down in LA so he keeps pretty busy. Thanks for checking and thanks for your help in moving him forward in his job search. It was invaluable!

I am totally thrilled with the direction he is going and am delighted in the work that was done to get him on the right path. I very much appreciate everything you have done.

As recent colleges graduate it can be quite intimidating navigating the uncharted territory of post college life. One of the most challenging aspects of this new chapter is finding that first entry-level job. After searching for many months applying for jobs with little success I knew I needed a new plan. It was at this point that found Shell.

Right from the beginning I could tell that working with Shell was going to be great. Her approach to job hunting was vastly different than most traditional methods I had heard. Reflecting on my experience I can easily say the best part of working with Shell was a refreshing process that focused on what made me unique. One method that stood out in particular was the flower system. Essentially what this system was all about was creating a personalized chart that outlined all my unique preferences and strengths as they applied to a related work field I was passionate about.

Up until this time in my professional life it had not occurred to me that many of the unique qualities and interests could speak volumes about what I wanted to do with my life. But speaking beyond the actual process itself one of the best aspects of this decision had to be Shell herself. During this journey there were various points where I struggled with the process when I would become discouraged about the lack of job responses. Whenever these moments arose Shell was there to offer encouragement and great tips to help get me back on track. As someone who also has ADD she was able to understand and speak to the nuanced obstacles and emotions I would feel.

In conclusion. I cannot say enough good things about working with Shell. As I move forward with a new job that I am truly excited about I am so thankful for the work that I did with Shell as I know that it will be invaluable in the adventures of career and life that lie ahead.

I found Shell at the time I needed help the most. Having recently been laid off, I didn’t know what my next steps were. I knew I was unhappy in my current career, but wasn’t sure I’d be happy or fulfilled in any career. In the four weeks (so far) we have been working together, Shell has given me hope that not only can I find a career I love, but even better, I can find the self I love. The process Shell has taken me through has been so much more than about finding a new job, but been about reclaiming those strengths and skills I forgot I had. It’s been about loving myself, shortcomings and all, enough to believe that finding a career I love will be of service to the world. Shell has been an encourager and cheerleader, and even given me an occasional kick in the butt when I needed it. If you’re tired of bouncing from job to job, field to field, and wondering if you’ll ever find a career you’ll love, I’ve been there. If you’ve ever been jealous of the people who love their job so much they can’t wait to go to work, I’ve felt that same jealousy. I believe Shell has helped me find the path to finally find the career I was born to do and can do the same for you.I found Shell at the time I needed help the most. Having recently been laid off, I didn’t know what my next steps were. I knew I was unhappy in my current career, but wasn’t sure I’d be happy or fulfilled in any career. In the four weeks (so far) we have been working together, Shell has given me hope that not only can I find a career I love, but even better, I can find the self I love. The process Shell has taken me through has been so much more than about finding a new job, but been about reclaiming those strengths and skills I forgot I had. It’s been about loving myself, shortcomings and all, enough to believe that finding a career I love will be of service to the world. Shell has been an encourager and cheerleader, and even given me an occasional kick in the butt when I needed it. If you’re tired of bouncing from job to job, field to field, and wondering if you’ll ever find a career you’ll love, I’ve been there. If you’ve ever been jealous of the people who love their job so much they can’t wait to go to work, I’ve felt that same jealousy. I believe Shell has helped me find the path to finally find the career I was born to do and can do the same for you.

I am so thankful for your time knowledge, and skillful listening and inquiry. I know your skill set is extremely valuable and I am excited to spend the time (with you) in full gear working with you on this (fabulous career direction).

I heard Shell being interviewed on a radio show and knew I had to contact her. She generously offered me a trial conversation via Skype which was very empowering. Shell has the ability to cut through the clutter and get to the core of the matter. By asking the right questions, she helps you access your true inner knowledge, the things that make your heart flutter with excitement. Even during that one hour conversation, I was empowered and excited and ready to start taking steps to creating my new career. I will definitely be following up and working with her.

Working with Shell gave me the confidence…and power to take control of my job search. When I started, I felt extremely hopeless and helpless. I didn’t know what I was looking for in a career. When I perused job descriptions and applied for positions, I never felt enthusiastic about my future. Shell led me on a journey to self-discovery. My work with her focused my job search and is leading me into fields and jobs that I love.
Shell’s encouragment and positive attitude is contagious. I feel excited to continue my job search and see what the future holds for me.

Shell Mendelson saved my son’s life. That is not an over-statement. My son went into work on the 4th of July and called me to pick him up a few minutes later. I swung back on to the freeway and when I got there, he was standing on the sidewalk looking like he’d been punched in the stomach. He was in shock as he got back in the car and couldn’t really talk for a while. The truth is that was HIS emancipation day too. Now he was free from the degrading and abusive world of restaurant work, and free from the fruitless job seeking he had been doing in his off hours. Free from the rejection and self doubt caused by not doing what he loved, and certainly not doing what he hoped he would be doing after college. Ian graduated with a degree in creative writing, and is a stand up comic at heart. Shell began working with him the very next day and never let him down. She challenged him when he needed it, motivated him when he felt like giving up, and kept him on track with great books and tools. She taught him how to do informational interviews and worked with him to schedule them and keep going when he wanted to just settle for the next job that came along. After three months of working with Shell and really using her tools and expertise, Ian got his dream job. He’s now working for a company which was voted the best place to work in Seattle, two years in a row. He’s doing creative writing every day, learning a tremendous amount about his industry, internet marketing, and the world of work. He earns a good wage, has excellent benefits, and a boss he really likes. He is valued by his company and continues to grow in his new job. He went from dejected college grad doubting himself to successfully employed in a job using his passion for creative writing.Thank you Shell!

I was at a crossroads career-wise, and realized I was tired of not doing a job that I thoroughly enjoyed and that lined up with my passions. After being referred to career counseling with Shell, I immediately contacted her and started my first session that same week. It was very nice to talk to a professional counselor about my passions and wishes and to see how they lined up with finding a new job. Shell was very encouraging and supportive throughout my sessions. I was able to leave with a clearer picture of what I should be doing and how I should go about making it happen. I am excited about what is next for me in a career and I have a lot to thank Shell for that.

Thank you.

I was fired, let go, downsized, call it what you will. It felt like a punch in the stomach. I was fired on the Fourth of July in the middle of one of the worst economic downturns in history. I was a recent college grad with two years of bartending experience under my belt and nothing more. You’d be hard pressed to find a more desperate case when it came to the field of job searching. That was what I thought anyway, I saw in myself only my short comings and inadequacies. I thought I would have been lucky to find another job in the restaurant industry if anything. Then I met Shell.

She asked me questions about myself that I never even considered asking. What would my ideal work environment look like? What kind of structure would there be? Would I like to work in groups or as an individual? Would there be windows in my office? These questions almost seemed silly. Shell got me to think differently about my goals and what they would look like. What do you think about when you look for jobs? The pay? The benefits? The commute? She got me to think about what I wanted out of a job down to the detail, and because of that the big picture got brighter, more focused, and became more of a tangible reality.

So I went from sitting in my basement playing video games all day long to a structured lifestyle where I had a job. My job was of course to find a job. That meant getting up and starting my day before typical business hours, dressing professionally, and setting small goals and projects for myself to achieve. You have to really give yourself over and trust the process. Shell and I worked together to understand and map out my career goals. We figured out those details I mentioned before and I began to actually see myself in the job I wanted.

The process took a lot of hard work and yes at times I did get frustrated and even upset, but Shell was there every step of the way to encourage me and keep me on the path towards my career goals. Some of my career goals were as follows:

To work in a creative/ marketing position
To work in an environment that was a fair mix between team and individual structures
To work with kind people who kept their work and personal lives separate
To have an office with big windows
At the end of my work with Shell I got a job. I am an internet marketing specialist. I am allowed to write and be creative. I work in groups and by myself, and my office has plenty of windows. None of this would have been possible without Shell. Her support and guidance helped me though the darkest moments of my job search, she constantly reminded me that there was a light at the end of the tunnel and the only person who could make it brighter was me. I thank her from the bottom of my heart.

~ Ian Magwire

I loved my new job and after only 1 1/2 years I’ve moved onwards and upwards. I never would have thought that I would see such success in such a short amount of time and am now working at the senior level in one of the largest dot coms in the world. This would not have been possible had I been on the wrong career path. Many people get stuck in their jobs because they weren’t meant to be there in the first place. When you follow your passion your career pathway opens up and continues to offer positive results. Had I not worked with Shell I wouldn’t have been able to be in a place to accept this new opportunity. Using the tools she gave me I knew exactly what to do when the opportunity came along.
Your not just changing jobs, you’re changing your life.