#16 What to look for in a coach
You've decided to give coaching a go, and you're now looking to have your own coach! But, first, let me say, "congrats for investing in yourself and being open to learning and self-development!β
You've done your research a bit, you understand what coaching is and the value that can bring you, and you're super excited to start. But, how do you go about finding a coach that will support your goals? More importantly, how do you choose the coach?
First, it's important to define your goals.
What do you want to get out of the coaching relationship? What would you like to learn about yourself during coaching? How much time can you commit? How often do you want to meet with your coach? What type of experience would you like for the coach to have?
Think also of logistics such as time zones, in-person versus over Zoom/Hangout, and if it matters to speak your language or not. And obviously, you also need to consider the cost involved for coaching; most coaches will offer their services as a package (X amount of sessions for Y amount of money).
Next, look at your company/employer - do they have an internal coach, or are they working with a provider? Then, ask for recommendations from friends and your network, look at WBECS and check some of their sessions, and obviously, check the ICF directory to look for a coach based on the services they provide. It also helps to see their online presence and what they are doing for constant and personal development.
Most coaches offer discovery or chemistry sessions, where you can meet with the coach, discuss your needs, and figure out if you can see yourself working with them.
Other coaches, like me, are also doing several pro-bono coaching sessions - this can be part of their learning path to accreditation or merely a way of giving back and helping others. But just because they do that doesn't mean that their dedication and commitment to supporting will be any different than if you pay a coach. We all do a lot of learning around ethics and serving the client. π
A great coach should help you get out of your comfort zone where all the growth happens.
They should, first of all, offer a safe space for you to self-reflect and find your own solutions, value your thoughts and see you as a capable human being. If a coach talks more than you do in a session, maybe it's not really the coach you need.
Once you start coaching, make sure that Your intent and desire for growth is driving all of this because it will be You who will do all the work. The coach can provide you tools and thought-provoking questions to help you, but itβs up to you to do the work.
Stay curious,
Flo