Finding the right coach

There are many great coaches around who can help change your life for the better, but it’s up to you to find the right one. Facing the Change Coaching & Advisory Services offers some helpful advice. 

Some people say that there are too many coaches on the market, but I disagree because of this reason; one coach does not fit all types of clients, and there are a wide variety of people looking for coaching. So, it’s advantageous to research a potential coach before requesting an introduction.

What makes a good coach?

Coaching can help you find direction in your personal and professional life and create a practical plan for moving forwards. Coaching can transport your mindset from a "fixed" mindset to a "growth" one.

A coach:

• Is passionate about helping others and shows empathy but not sympathy.
• Listens and does not judge, asks questions and patiently waits for your answer.
• Asks open questions, challenges you and guides you to explore new opportunities.
• Has completed a formal training course and / or has a coaching certification.
• Understands that coaching is an ongoing process, also for themselves.

In my view, a good coach is aware of their own strengths and weaknesses, continuously improving over time.

How do I choose a coach?

Think about why you are considering hiring a coach; depending on the reason, look for a coach who is specialised in that specific area.

For example, due to COVID-19, current economics, or other social dynamics, you may have lost your job, or have been forced to undergo a career change. This could be the right time for you to re-think your path and working with a coach will certainly help.

I suggest you start your research by looking at the coach’s expertise and experience. Do they speak your language? Or are you ok to be coached in English? It has been said that being coached in your own language can be even more effective.

Usually coaches offer an intake session, an opportunity for you both to meet and see if there is “chemistry” ... and yes, chemistry is critical for a coaching session or programme to succeed! So, you need to ask yourself whether you will feel comfortable opening up to this person or not.

If you are making a career change, a coach with corporate working experience could work. However, if you are looking to improve your skills as a leader, look for a coach who also has direct experience managing staff in a leadership position themselves. Look for a personal connection between you and the coach, and make sure the coach knows what you expect from working with them.

During my intakes, I always like to find out if the potential client is ready to be coached because if a client isn't ready to share their personal situation, I don’t have anything to work with. Without focused intention from both parties, a coaching session can end up simply being a conversation and will not be as valuable as it should be. In my case, most of my clients are ready to be coached. We then go on an incredible journey together: a journey to unlock their potential. This process allows my clients to grow personally and professionally, while at the same time it feeds my own sense of purpose.

What to expect from a coaching programme

Here is a summary of some of the changes you may experience when moving from a “fixed” to a “growth” mindset:

If you are looking for a coach, then start your research with a free intake at Facing the Change Coaching & Advisory Services. Contact them now!