Interview with Stephanie: How a Boutique Coaching Brand is Transforming Career Transitions with Strategy, Storytelling, and Heart

Editor: Stephanie, what inspired you to start Next Step Career Services?
Stephanie: When I founded Next Step Career Services, my mission was simple: to help professionals find clarity, confidence, and direction during times of career transition. We’re based in Boise, Idaho, and our boutique firm has grown into a trusted partner for mid-level to senior leaders seeking purpose-driven career growth. At Next Step, we don’t just help people land jobs; we help them discover what’s next, aligning their professional ambitions with their personal values.

Editor: What challenges did you face in the early days of your business?
Stephanie: Launching a career services business as a solopreneur was challenging. I wore many hats, from marketing strategist and content writer to client coach and business owner. Building brand recognition while demonstrating the value of personalized coaching over quick online templates required focus and persistence. Early success came through storytelling: sharing client transformations helped build our reputation and prove that coaching can be life-changing.

Editor: Was there a turning point that shaped your approach?
Stephanie: Absolutely. The pivotal moment came when I embraced authenticity and personal storytelling. By sharing my own career journey—the challenges, growth, and lessons—I connected with clients on a deeper level. People responded to real stories, which built trust, increased referrals, and expanded our reach through LinkedIn thought leadership, webinars, and public speaking.

Editor: What are the core principles behind your success?
Stephanie: Our success rests on three pillars: relationships, results, and resilience. Every client engagement is personal, designed to boost both confidence and competence. We combine empathy with strategy, ensuring that résumés, coaching sessions, and brand stories feel authentic and impactful. The goal is always to help clients see and communicate their value clearly.

Editor: How do you approach the challenges faced by modern leaders?
Stephanie: Leaders today face AI disruption, burnout, and rapidly evolving workplace expectations. My advice centers on self-awareness, adaptability, and authenticity. The most successful leaders are human-first; they lead with confidence and compassion while embracing technology and emotional intelligence.

Editor: How does Next Step foster innovation and growth?
Stephanie: Innovation begins with curiosity. Our team constantly evaluates market trends and explores new coaching methods. We integrate technology thoughtfully, using AI tools and online platforms to enhance the client experience without replacing the human touch. Every new idea is tested against one question: Does it elevate the client experience?

Editor: Diversity and inclusion are key topics today. How do you address them in your work?
Stephanie: Inclusivity is a core value for us. Every résumé and coaching session celebrates individuality and removes bias from career storytelling. We’ve also developed language frameworks and training materials for other coaches to ensure underrepresented voices are respected industry-wide. Internally, we lead with empathy and representation, valuing each client’s unique journey.

Editor: Can you share more about the services Next Step Career Services offers?
Stephanie: We provide a comprehensive suite of services tailored to the evolving job market: career coaching, résumé writing, LinkedIn optimization, interview preparation, and networking strategies. Our flagship Job Search Program guides clients from résumé creation to job offer acceptance, supporting them every step of the way. We don’t just prepare documents; we prepare people.

Editor: How does technology play a role in your offerings?
Stephanie: Technology enhances the client experience through digital intake forms, automated scheduling, AI-assisted tools, and online coaching sessions. This seamless integration allows us to deliver a high-impact, personal, and professional experience no matter where clients are located.

Editor: How has Next Step Career Services redefined career coaching?
Stephanie: We’ve shifted career coaching from a transactional service to a transformative partnership. By combining leadership coaching with professional branding, we help clients find purpose, alignment, and fulfillment, not just employment.

Editor: What strategies ensure your long-term sustainability and growth?
Stephanie: Continuous evolution is key. We invest in ongoing education, certifications, and strategic partnerships to remain relevant. Listening to clients, the market, and ourselves allows us to adapt quickly. Whether integrating new AI tools, revamping brand messaging, or expanding into digital learning, we thrive on reinvention.

Editor: Any recent milestones you’d like to highlight?
Stephanie: One of our most successful initiatives has been expanding into full job search coaching. Our six-step program provides strategy, accountability, and empowerment, helping hundreds of professionals land new roles faster and with more confidence.

Editor: Looking ahead, what’s your vision for Next Step Career Services?
Stephanie: We aim to continue pioneering purposeful career transformation. By staying authentic, inclusive, and innovative, we inspire professionals to embrace change with confidence. True career success begins with clarity, courage, and connection, one meaningful next step at a time.

Connect with Stephanie and Next Step Career Services:
Website: nextstepcareerservices.com
LinkedIn: Stephanie
Facebook: Next Step Career Services
Instagram: Next Step Career Services