Find the Right Coach

Here are some hiring tips to find the right coach:

• Do your homework. Research what coaching is and confirm your interests align. There are several resources on the ICF website and also on my resource tab.

• Reflect on your goals and objectives. Go into coaching open minded, but also prepared with what you want to work on or develop. Coaching is action and learning driven.

• Confirm credibility. Research the coach’s training, professional memberships and credentials.

• Prepare questions. By asking your questions, not only do you get clarity, but you also can engage rapport.

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Questions to ask the interviewing Coach.

When finding the right coach, it's essential to ask thoughtful questions that help you assess their qualifications, approach, and fit with your needs. Here are some key questions to consider:

1. What is your coaching experience? This question helps gauge the coach's expertise in their industry. Anyone can wake up one day and decide to call themselves a coach, what do they have in experience that can be of value to you.

2. What is your coaching approach or methodology? Understanding the coach's approach will give you insights into their coaching style, techniques, and how they typically work with clients. This will help you determine if their approach aligns with your preferences and goals.

3. How do you measure progress and success in coaching engagements? Coaches should have a clear framework for measuring progress and success. Ask about their methods for tracking progress and how they define success in their coaching engagements.

4. Can you provide examples of clients you have worked with and the outcomes they achieved? Request specific examples or case studies of previous clients to understand the coach's track record and the types of results they have helped their clients achieve. This will give you an idea of what you can expect from working with them.

5. How do you tailor your coaching to meet the unique needs of each client? Coaching should be personalized and tailored to each individual's needs. Inquire about how the coach customizes their approach to address the specific challenges and goals of their clients.

6. What is your coach-specific training (an ICF-accredited training program, other coach-specific training, etc.)? Again, you do not need to be certified to be a coach, so if you want a coach with more expertise in their craft, ask what their education is pertaining to specifically coaching.

7. What is your philosophy on confidentiality in coaching? Confidentiality is crucial in coaching relationships. Ensure the coach has a clear understanding of confidentiality and ethical guidelines. Ask about how they handle sensitive information and maintain client privacy.

8. How do you handle the balance between support and accountability in coaching? Coaching should provide both support and accountability. Discuss with the coach how they strike the right balance between offering support and holding clients accountable for their goals and actions.

9. What is your availability and preferred mode of communication? Understanding the coach's availability and preferred communication methods is essential for scheduling and ongoing discussions. Ensure their availability aligns with your needs and preferred modes of communication.

10. Can you provide references or testimonials from previous clients? Request references or testimonials from past clients to hear about their experiences working with the coach. This feedback can provide valuable insights into the coach's effectiveness and the impact they have had on their clients.

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