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!
