How to choose the right coach for you
The last few years have seen a major influx in coaches globally. This has the major benefit that there is a wide variety of coaching approaches and services to choose from. Now, if you have not explored coaching before it may be difficult to navigate toward finding the right coach for you.
How to find the right coach, when you do not quite know what you are looking for?
We are all unique, especially when it comes to coaching. When choosing a coach, it is extremely important to find the right fit as it can greatly impact your progress during and after the sessions.
Here are some tips to consider while selecting the right coach for you:
It is important to know that the coaching industry is still unregulated. The title “Coach” is still unprotected. This means that anyone can call themselves a coach, even if they do not have the relevant qualifications and experience to do so. The way to navigate around this is to check whether your coach is certified by a reputable coach training institute and accredited by a coach accreditation body.
Be sure to find a coach who offers sessions in your most productive space. Coaching sessions can be hosted online, in person or outdoors. Some coaches even come to you, whether that is at your office or your home. Ask yourself which space has the least distractions and where you can really focus on yourself.
Select a coach that offers sessions at a cost that you feel comfortable with. Coaching fees can greatly differ from coach to coach and so do payment plans. Your personal development is one of the most important investments you will ever make. This is not the time to save but also not the time to break the bank.
It is essential to find a coach you can trust and connect with. But, also someone who challenges you and encourages you to grow. Your potential is unlimited, be sure to select a coach that helps you become the best version of yourself.
Coaches are not mentors, advisors, or therapists. Do not expect advice, direction or a diagnosis. Expect being asked the right questions to encourage exploration. Expect to be listened to and challenged to come up with a way forward that works for you.
Most coaches offer exploration calls. See the call as your first chance to take responsibility for the success of your personal development journey. Communicate your needs, expectations, and concerns. Bring all your questions to this session. See if you and the coach have a connection and whether the conversation flows.
Coaching should empower you to become the most powerful version of yourself based on your values, principles and goals. If you are still unsure of where to find an exceptional coach, head on over to the Speak UP Page to find coaches who have been carefully selected, vetted and recommended by the UP Zürich Team.
Written by: Naomi Wernecke, Personal Development Coach and Co-Founder of UP Zürich
Photo Credit: Unsplash
