What to consider when looking for a Coach

If you are somebody who has thought about using the services of a coach for a while, or it’s a new concept to you, once you’ve made the decision to invest the time and money into your self- development it can be a minefield trying to find the right one!

Today I am going to write about initial considerations when looking for a coach, so consider this a useful guide!

• The person is everything!

  It cannot be underestimated how important it is to hire a coach that not only you like, but ultimately makes you feel comfortable. During coaching, you might explore scenarios that have impacted your life up until the present moment, relive difficult conversations or vulnerable moments in your career. If you are with someone who makes you feel you can’t do this, then coaching will simply not get you to the point you need to. The coaching relationship is crucial. You will need someone you feel can ask you those important questions, but you’ll also need to feel safe and comfortable to answer them too. You may have an underlying fear holding you back for example- not being able to unpick that can stop you getting past it. Take people up on any chemistry calls, read their reviews, get a feel for them on social media, and don’t be afraid to go with your instinct on this. Your coach will be your trusted friend while you work with them, so choose wisely and it could be one of the most valuable relationships you can ever have.

• Check their qualifications

  Because I create coaching content on social media, I’m on an algorithm which advertises anything to do with coaching. It surprises me how many “be a coach for $70” adverts I get! You want somebody who has trained with one of the major coaching bodies or universities in the country they are in, and check what their qualifications mean. If they haven’t needed to produce a sound body of coaching practice before qualifying, chances are they may not be as developed as you need them to be. In a market where anyone can call themselves a coach, for very little effort, make sure you are getting what you pay for. Don’t be afraid to check details and ask questions

• Consider your goals.

  If you are an entrepreneur looking to expand your business, and you could benefit from targeted help and support, a business coach could be the right fit for you. Whilst combining an element of mentorship in approach, the experience from a business coach can help you work on more specific focused business areas that a leadership coach may not have experience in. Similarly if you are thinking you might want to work on your confidence, choose a coach who has experience in this area. Most leadership and management coaches will cite confidence as one of the most common areas people approach them for their development coaching, so you will be better placed. Coaching and mentoring are very different things- I have explored this previously on my blogs- some people will charge a lot of money to be your “ life coach”- ultimately, as long as you are at the driving seat in your life, it will be coaching- do check the approach of the coach before signing up.

• Research

  Websites and social media are very useful when comparing approaches and costings. You’ll come across some individuals charging ££££s for coaching and some only a fraction of this. You don’t always get what you pay for here- as varying levels of experience can dictate the fees offered but that doesn’t always mean the results have been there for the clients. Researching the claims made, the testimonials and looking for key signs they have a credible reputation helps make sure you get what you want for the price you can pay. Look for coaches who are members of credible bodies such as the ILM, ICF and EMCC. Make sure your coach has regular supervision and is up to date with their CPD. It is surprising how many people can call themselves a coach, and market themselves very well, with little qualifications.

• Throw yourself into it

  Once you have hired a coach, give yourself the best chance of developing yourself. Clear space in your life for ongoing reflection, allow ideas and thoughts to flow. Embrace any actions and believe in yourself and the process. Investing in yourself can be a hard thing to do, but you’ve made the decision because you want some changes, so commit to them with your whole heart. Coaching is successful when the client takes the wheel in their life- you need to be motivated. So make sure the timing is right for you and go for it.

Check out my website for more information on me and the services I offer. I’m always happy to chat through any concerns or queries.

Happy coaching!