Tips for Choosing a Coach

By: Coaching Coordinator

September 1, 2009

The International Coach Federation lists these four recommendations:

Educate yourself about coaching.
Know your objectives for working with a coach.
Interview three coaches before you decide on one. Ask each about their experience, qualifications, skills, and ask for at least two references.
Remember, coaching is an important relationship. There should be a “connection” between you and the coach that feels right.

To assist with #1 and #2, I suggest these resources.

From the International Coach Federation: Guide to Choosing a Professional Coach
From Coach University:
- a thorough answer to the question: “What is coaching?”
- Coaching Readiness Indicators. A desire for:
  - a change in life direction.
  - a move from thinking about challenges to taking positive action.
  - increased fulfillment and meaning in life.
  - gaining better clarity and focus about what you want in life.
  - to shift from reacting to events to being proactive in your life.
  - aligning your livelihood with your direction in life.
  - setting priorities so that you have time to nurture yourself and others you care for.
- The benefits of working with a coach:
  - the clarity that comes with having a focused conversation
  - being listened to by someone who listens with your best interests in mind
  - being challenged to go beyond where you would go yourself
  - having someone you can explore options with
  - creating an action plan that suits your life with the support and assistance of someone who believes in you
From Business Class: a few sample scenarios .

To assist with #3 (finding prospective coaches to interview), I suggest:

asking colleagues and friends for recommendations
visiting www.findacoach.com
visiting ICF’s (Internation Coach Federation) referral service
and of course I must suggest that you visit www.businessclassinc.com!All of the coaches I know will set up an exploratory session with you at no charge (usually by telephone).

For help with #4 (determining connection), I suggest these discussion topics:

what you hope to accomplish by hiring a coach
his/her experience with this type of situation
his/her experience prior to becoming a coach
his/her coaching credentials
his/her client protocols
meeting agenda
references

If you would like to talk with me about Business Class Management Coaching Programs, please contact me by email. We will set up a time to talk by telephone so we can discuss your situation.

I hope to have that opportunity soon!