Know the Pro : Michelle Schafer
Cultivating Career Growth with Intention in 2026
As professionals look ahead to 2026, many are asking a familiar question: What’s next for my career? Michelle Schafer, Founder and Career Coach at Michelle Schafer Coaching, has spent the past decade helping people navigate career transitions with clarity, confidence, and purpose.
An ICF-certified career and leadership coach, author, and facilitator, Michelle specializes in supporting professionals through moments of change. She often jokes that at 46, she finally knew what she wanted to be “when she grew up.” After experiencing job elimination for the second time, a long-planted idea took shape. She explored the coaching profession, pursued formal training, and quickly realized this work was more than a side project — it was her calling.
Since then, Michelle has found deep fulfillment in helping clients clarify what matters most and take intentional steps toward meaningful careers. Not only is she an industry expert providing actionable, practical advice, but she does so in a kind, personable, and deeply respectful way.
“Career transitions can be intentional, values-driven, and deeply energizing.”
Through Michelle Schafer Coaching, she works with clients across government, high tech, financial services, and the not-for-profit sector. She is particularly known for supporting mid-career professionals who feel stuck and ready for change. Her impact has been widely recognized — she was named one of Ottawa’s Top Coaches in 2024 and is also an award-winning, number-one bestselling author.
Built from Practice, Written with Purpose
Cultivating Career Growth: Navigating Transitions with Purpose is a practical, step-by-step guide for professionals seeking clarity, fulfillment, and renewed energy in their work. Drawing on real client success stories — along with her own experience navigating corporate restructuring — Michelle shares a proven framework for exploring new opportunities and approaching career change with confidence.
Her message is simple but powerful: you don’t have to stay stuck. With the right tools and perspective, transitions can become opportunities to thrive. Michelle invites readers to take the driver’s seat and turn their career change into an inspiring next chapter.
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“Intentional career growth starts with reflection, not reaction.”
Navigating Today’s Job Market: What to Watch For
Michelle sees two key trends shaping today’s job market.
First, AI is playing a growing role in candidate screening, making it essential for resumes and cover letters to be tailored for each role. She encourages candidates to use AI as a supportive tool — not a replacement — to strengthen their messaging while keeping it authentic and human.
Second, networking has never been more important. With some roles attracting more than 1,000 applicants, meaningful connections can be the differentiator that opens doors to opportunities not found through applications alone.
From Uncertainty to Action: Client Success Story
Michelle is especially energized by clients who know they want change, even if the destination isn’t yet clear.
One recent client, after selling his restaurant following a long career in hospitality, wanted to explore new possibilities outside the industry. Michelle guided him through clarifying his non-negotiables, identifying transferable skills, and crafting a compelling new career story.
The result? A successful transition into construction project management — an entirely new field that aligned with his strengths and goals. For Michelle, witnessing clients step into roles that energize them and expand what’s possible is the most rewarding part of her work.
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“Giving yourself permission to reimagine what is possible can change everything.”
Looking Ahead to 2026
Michelle’s journey is a powerful reminder that meaningful career growth comes from reflection, intention, and thoughtful action. If you’re entering 2026 with a desire for greater purpose in your career, connecting with Michelle Schafer is a great place to start.
A quick online search will also turn up a strong collection of podcast appearances and social media content where Michelle shares practical, immediately usable insights to help you move closer to your next ideal opportunity.
Connect with Michelle:
You can also reach out to the Hamilton Recruiting team — we would be delighted to introduce you to Michelle and support you on your journey toward a meaningful career change in the year ahead.