Career coaching helps with self-understanding and direction-setting. Side projects build real skills employers can see. For most ambitious women looking to grow, side projects produce more career movement per pound spent than coaching does.
Why side projects compound
Build skills you wouldn't get in current role. Produce portfolio pieces that demonstrate capability. Build networks of people who share the interest. Generate opportunities (consulting work, job offers, partnerships) that don't come from internal corporate paths.
What works as a side project
Newsletter or blog about your professional area. Open-source contributions for technical roles. Freelance work on weekends in your speciality. Teaching (Udemy course, evening adult education). Each builds different muscles, all of which translate to career advancement.
Three hours per weekend on a deliberate side project over 12 months produces more career advancement for most women than the equivalent spent on coaching, networking events, or internal corporate climbing.