2026 dates: 13th May and 4th November
10.00am to 5.00pm (online)
Michael Larbalestier, Digital Associate at the Career Development Institute, will lead an exploration of how AI might impact career coaching. The Masterclass will discuss the nature of AI, and some of the concerns, challenges and ethical issues which arise. The session will also look at some of the key tools and applications of relevance to coaching.
There will be opportunities to work in small breakout groups looking at some case study material, think more about how we can safely explore potential use while also sharing good practice going forwards and creating some resources too.
In the afternoon we introduce Microsoft Copilot and undertake a series of short, hands-on challenges to test different use cases. Example prompts will be provided, which can be adapted and tailored to your context.
What is the value of attending?
This workshop offers significant value for career coaching professionals. Here’s a summary of the benefits attendees will gain:
- Understanding AI in coaching:
- Develop foundational knowledge of AI, it’s characteristics and current applications in career development.
- Learn about AI’s limitations, ensuring realistic expectations.
- Ethical awareness:
- Engage in discussions on AI ethics, addressing concerns like algorithmic bias, data privacy and its societal inpact.
- Understand best practices for ethical and responsible AI use. in coaching.
- Hands-on exploration:
- Use tools such as Microsoft Copilot to tackle real-world scenarios in career coaching.
- Practice with specific AI-driven tasks like skill gap analysis, CV refinement and personalised career pathway suggestions.
- Skill development:
- Gain confidence in crafting AI-driven career coaching materials, including workshops, action plans, and client communications.
- Learn to create engaging social media content and evaluate client interactions for continuous improvement.
- Collaborative Learning:
- Share insights with peers through breakout sessions and case study discussions.
- Learn from others’ experiences to refine your own coaching practices.
Who can attend the Masterclass?
Individuals who are interested both in learning more about the topic for themselves, and in integrating it within their own work and business, who are either a:
- Graduate of the CCS Core Skills Accredited Career Coach training
- Career Coach, Coach or Organisational Coach
- Talent Manager, HR and Learning and Development professional, Organisational Change Manager with coaching experience
Programme
Morning sessions
- What is AI? Definition and key characteristics; Brief history and current state of AI technology; AI’s capabilities and limitations
- AI Ethics and Concerns Algorithmic bias and transparency issues; Data privacy and security risks; Potential impacts on jobs and careers; Breakout discussion on ethical implications
- AI Applications in Career coaching AI-powered job search; AI recruiting tools; Chatbots for basic career coaching; Personalised scenario simulations, assessments and recommendations (Career Explorer)
- What’s your AI confidence persona? What about your clients – how do they feel? What other influences might there be? Eg School/Council/government policies, parent/carer attitudes?
There will be several break-out sessions to review cases in small groups.
Afternoon sessions
Career Pathway Suggestions and Labour Market Trends: Learn how to use Microsoft Copilot to analyse anonymised CVs and client backgrounds, generating tailored career pathway suggestions and insights into current labour market trends.
Design a Skills Gap Self-Assessment and Action Plan: Explore how Copilot can create a skills gap self-assessment tool, perform gap analysis, and suggest actionable steps based on hypothetical client data.
Refining a CV Based on a Desired Job: Use Copilot to tailor CVs to specific job descriptions, generate interview questions, and practice responses for enhanced client preparation.
Design a Coaching Workshop: Harness Copilot to ideate and structure coaching workshops, including learning objectives, engaging activities, and supportive materials.
Making Client Communication More Engaging: Enhance client interaction by creating a series of supportive and motivational emails, tailored to different stages of the coaching process.
Crafting Social Media Content: Leverage Copilot to brainstorm topics and craft LinkedIn posts that resonate with target client groups and support your coaching practice.
Reviewing a Recent Client Interaction: Use Copilot to reflect on recent coaching sessions, identifying strengths and areas for improvement to optimise client outcomes.
Fees and date
The AI for Career Coaching Masterclass will be held online from 10:00 to17:00 (GMT)
2026 dates: 13th May and 4th November
The fee is £320 + VAT
Early-Bird Rate: £290 + VAT for applications received by 2 weeks before the event. A deposit of £50 will be charged to secure your place upon booking.
(Please note that VAT is charged to UK based participants only).
To apply, please scroll down this page and complete our online application form.
Course Facilitator
Michael Larbalestier
Michael Larbalestier brings a wealth of expertise as the former Head of Digital Product Innovation at The Career Innovation Company. Michael is also the Digital Associate at the Career Development Institute (CDI). With over four years of experience leading the design and delivery of cutting-edge digital solutions, Michael specialises in creating impactful tools for the education, employment, and skills sectors.
A passionate advocate for leveraging technology to enhance career development and learning, Michael combines a strong foundation in blended learning design, digital strategy, and product development with hands-on experience in coaching, mentoring, and guidance. His approach centres on co-design and research-driven innovation, ensuring solutions meet the needs of diverse audiences and stakeholders.
As your workshop tutor, Michael is committed to sharing practical insights, ethical considerations, and best practices for using AI to transform career coaching.
Application form
Please click here to apply and secure your place or email alex@career-counselling-services.co.uk with any questions.
