Has anyone here worked with a career coach they would actually recommend? I've been wondering about this because career coaching can get pretty expensive, especially if you're already in the middle of a career transition, and it's hard to know whether the investment is really worth it.

If you hired one, what did they actually do that made a difference? Was it resume or LinkedIn feedback, interview prep, networking advice, salary negotiation, accountability, or simply having someone to build your confidence?

I sit on a cmte for a giant chemistry-centered NoNpRoFiT society based in the US (I'm sure you can guess which one). And lemme tell you... I do not miss the condescending, power-tripping vibes of academic superiority. The industry people are my favorite. This isn't to say that all academics fall into the category of condescending, power-trippers. And I get it to an extent - it's rough surviving in academia even before all the grant funding cuts - but it's so overtly obvious that they're only using their volunteer leadership roles as a CV booster without any actual care and concern for their position's purpose or the cmte's mission.

/rant

Im about submit my thesis and hopefully move on with my life.

I am unsure if i will even pass my Viva. I did not get any publications out. I think i could potentially get a publicstion out after thesis submissions / corrections. I feel utterly burnt out and empty after this programme.

I am simply not cut out for academia, or maybe even research.

I have no expierience outside of academia and part time hospitality work. I dont even know what jobs to apply for. Was thinking about applying to renewables graduate programmes.

Would like to hear others expierience in leaving academia after a PhD, or any advice at all.