6 Steps to Finding and Choosing a Coach

Everyone seems to be a coach.

If you’re looking for a coach, where do you begin and how do you choose?

1. Decide on the rough area that you want to be coached on ie more personal or more work related eg transitioning to a larger role. This helps narrow the pool of coaches to speak to.

a. It doesn’t have to be specific at this stage as your goal will change as you develop greater clarity through coaching.

2. Ask your network for recommendations.

3. Rather keep it private? Try the international coaching organisation websites such as the ICF and EMCC. They will have a list of credentialed coaches.

a. Please note that a credentialed coach does not necessarily mean a better coach but at least you know that they have under gone formal coaching education and meet a particular standard of coaching

4. Research potential coaches. Look at their websites and Linkedin profiles. It will give you a feel of their approach to coaching their areas of coaching interest as well as testimonials.

5. Have a chemistry call with shortlisted coaches. The first conversation often called a chemistry session is about 30 minutes and should be free.

a. The “chemistry” you have with your coach is more important than their years of experience, industry background or location.

i. Coaching involves helping you change your perspective of yourself and your situation. Working with someone with a different background will help.

ii. With Zoom and other online meeting tools, the location of your coach is less important.

b. Coaching works best when there’s trust between coach and client.

i. Do you feel “safe” to discuss the areas you want to work on as well as your fears?

ii. Would you be comfortable being challenged by this coach?

iii. Do you feel like they’re genuinely interested in helping you achieve what’s important to you?

iv. Have they explained clearly how they work, fees, payment terms, frequency etc…?

6. If you’re new to coaching, talk to 3 coaches before you make a decision. This gives you a basis for comparison.

If there’s something you want and you’re not getting traction, it can be helpful to work with a coach.

Good luck!