The truth about AVGS Vouchers: When Free Career Coaching Isn’t Freeing
The AVGS voucher (Aktivierungs- und Vermittlungsgutschein) is often seen as a golden ticket to free career coaching. For many, it provides access to much-needed support for navigating career challenges, whether that’s finding a job, changing industries, or re-entering the workforce. However, while the “free” aspect of the AVGS voucher is appealing, it’s not without limitations that can make it less flexible and less effective compared to privately paid coaching.
For a detailed explanation of what the AVGS voucher is and how it works, make sure to check out this article: AVGS Voucher Explained – Unlock Free Coaching and Training
If you are currently searching for an AVGS coach make sure to read this before choosing: Don’t Choose an AVGS Coach Before Reading This!
What Surprised My AVGS Clients—and Why It Matters
As a career coach, I work with a diverse range of clients, including private clients and those who use an AVGS voucher as a form of payment. This unique position gives me a front-row seat to the differences in experience between these two groups. While I strive to maintain the same high level of service and personalization for all my clients, the rigid rules and limitations imposed by the Jobcenter or Arbeitsamt on AVGS coaching often come as a shock to those using the voucher.
Many of my clients with an AVGS voucher are surprised by the strict guidelines they must follow—rules about scheduling, session frequency, and how the coaching hours are structured. For some, the limited timeframe and inflexibility make it difficult to get the most out of the coaching experience. In fact, it’s not uncommon for clients to extend their coaching through private funding after realizing that the voucher’s constraints don’t align with their needs. While they could apply for another voucher, many choose to prioritize flexibility and freedom instead.
This post was inspired by those observations. I want to shed light on the often-overlooked limitations of AVGS coaching and provide insights for those considering using a voucher. Understanding these constraints upfront can help you make an informed decision about what’s best for your career journey—and whether private coaching might be a better fit for your goals.
Before you continue reading…
This post is not meant to talk you out of AVGS coaching—it’s an option that is often the only one available to many, and it can be incredibly valuable. Instead, this article is here to help you understand the potential downsides so you can make an informed decision and avoid disappointment or difficulties down the line. If you choose the right coach and approach these limitations with awareness, you can truly benefit from the voucher and maximize the support it brings to your career journey.
Now, let’s dive into the details.
1. Rigidity in Scheduling and Structure
One of the biggest downsides of using an AVGS voucher is the lack of flexibility. The constraints, however, are not imposed by the coach but are established between you and the Jobcenter or Agentur für Arbeit (Arbeitsamt) as part of the voucher’s conditions. These include strict rules around the duration, frequency, and total hours of coaching.
For example, your voucher might specify that you must complete your coaching within six to eight weeks, with a minimum of two sessions per week. Coaches are obligated to adhere to these terms as they are fulfilling the requirements of the contract you have with the Jobcenter.
Moreover, while a voucher might promise "twenty hours" of coaching, it’s important to note that these hours are counted as learning unit hours—forty-five minutes each. This means that in practical terms, you’re receiving less actual time than you might expect.
Private coaching advantage: With private coaching, there are no such rigid rules. You and your coach can set a schedule that suits your needs, whether that’s weekly, biweekly, or tailored to your availability.
2. Limited Flexibility for Life Events
AVGS voucher programs often lack the flexibility to accommodate personal circumstances. If you’re unavailable during the six to eight weeks of coaching—for example, if you need to travel or take time off—you can’t simply reschedule sessions. You’ll need explicit permission from your Jobcenter or Arbeitsamt to adjust your timeline. Similarly, if you’re sick, you must provide official sick leave confirmation; otherwise, your sessions may be marked as missed and could jeopardize your voucher.
Additionally, vouchers come with a specified start date and must be used by a set deadline. Once the first session is scheduled, you are required to begin on that date without exceptions.
Private coaching advantage: Privately funded coaching offers unmatched flexibility. You can reschedule sessions as needed and take breaks without navigating administrative hurdles.
3. Quality of service
Another unspoken truth about AVGS coaching is that not all companies certified for AVGS vouchers provide fully 1:1 coaching. Some companies may offer only 50% of the promised coaching as direct sessions with a coach, while the remaining time is allocated to self-learning modules or group sessions. This approach can feel impersonal and may significantly reduce the overall effectiveness of the coaching experience.
Why does this happen? The simple answer is cost-cutting. AVGS vouchers are funded by the government and typically provide lower compensation to coaching companies compared to private coaching fees. To maximize profitability, some companies cut back on the more expensive one-on-one interaction with a coach and instead rely on cheaper alternatives like pre-recorded materials or group workshops.
Pro tip: During your initial consultation, always ask if all coaching sessions will be one-on-one. Avoid companies that substitute a significant portion of coaching with self-learning, as this might not provide the personalized support you need. Ensuring that your coaching experience is fully 1:1 guarantees tailored advice, individualized attention, and better outcomes for your career goals.
Would you like to know how i approach AVGS coaching sessions? Ask me a question or go ahead and book a free session.
4. Standardized Programs Over Individual Needs
AVGS voucher-approved programs often follow standardized formats to meet government requirements. While these may be helpful for some, they might not fully address your personal challenges or aspirations. Coaches working under the voucher are required to stick to the agreed-upon structure, which may not allow for as much customization as privately funded coaching.
Private coaching advantage: Private coaching is tailored to your specific needs and goals. Your coach can design a program that focuses entirely on what matters to you, whether it’s industry-specific strategies, long-term planning, or personal development.
5. Limited Choice of Coaches
When using an AVGS voucher, you must choose a certified provider from an approved list. While there are many great coaches on this list, the selection process can feel limiting—especially if your preferred coach isn’t certified under the voucher system.
Private coaching advantage: Paying privately gives you complete freedom to choose a coach who matches your goals, personality, and industry experience.
6. Administrative Hurdles and Approval Process
Obtaining an AVGS voucher involves a bureaucratic process. You need approval from your Jobcenter or Arbeitsamt advisor, and this can take time. Once you have the voucher, you must adhere to all its conditions, including deadlines and session rules, as discussed above.
Private coaching advantage: With private coaching, there are no administrative delays. You can start immediately and focus entirely on your goals without worrying about external conditions.
Is Private Coaching Worth It?
While the AVGS voucher offers a valuable opportunity for many, its limitations may not work for everyone. It’s essential to understand that the rigidity and rules associated with the voucher come from the agreement between you and the Jobcenter—not the coach. Coaches are simply fulfilling the terms set by that agreement.
If you’re seeking a highly personalized, flexible, and long-term coaching experience, private coaching may be worth the investment. The freedom to choose your coach, set your schedule, and focus on your unique needs can make a significant difference in achieving your career aspirations.
For practical tips on how to afford private coaching, be sure to read my article on budgeting for career coaching-Practical Ways to Afford Career Coaching: Investing in Your Future
Ready to invest in your future? Let’s talk. Book a free introductory call today to explore how private coaching can help you achieve your career goals without the constraints of an AVGS voucher.
Not yet ready to book a call, but would like to ask a question? Email or WhatsApp me.
Until our next breakthrough!
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