I see a lot of social media postings about being a coach. It is interesting to see the outpouring of folks who want to help others. That’s awesome. I love the people-helping-people aspect. It is so incredibly valuable from a peer-to-peer perspective. I also appreciate that more people want to work in the field of coaching. So what’s not to love?
But not all coaches are the same. It takes a little bit of research to find the right coach for you. Here are some questions you should consider before hiring a coach:
- What training have they undergone? Do they hold any certifications? As you think about hiring a coach, ask them about their credentials. Coaches who have undergone training through a reputable program such through and organization like the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaching (NBHWC) are knowledgeable and can help you assess your needs, follow best practices and hold a set of core ideals they practice daily and, just as importantly, know when something a client is experiencing is out of the scope of their practice.
- How is their business run? Do they carry insurance and have a business license? While it may seem that a client shouldn’t need to know about a coach’s business practices, these are important aspects of being a coach. It isn’t just a person saying they are a coach. It’s about truly running a viable business that becomes a valuable asset for their clients.
- What is their approach to coaching and communication? What is their coaching style? Are they empathetic, a good listener? Can they support a client without expressing their personal ideology and desires or belief system?
- What is their coaching specialty and does it fit with your needs?
- How would they personalize their approach to your needs? A one-size-fits-all approach isn’t helpful in creating change. Find someone who is interested in getting to know you and understanding your specific goals. A customized program will have the best outcomes.
It is important that you get what you need from a solid coach with solid business practices. I’ll always welcome new coaches; together, we lift each other up. But we also need to be mindful that the coach we hire has experience in the area we desire to work on (and some have multiple areas), and that they are knowledgeable about best practices in business, associated local, state and federal business laws, and coaching in general. Our dollars are valuable these days. Spend them wisely!