Finding the right Coach for your needs and personality can be an interesting task. It is of the greatest importance to find someone that is not only qualified, but qualified to address your needs. To make sure your Coach is a good match and can deliver what you need, here are 7 tips to consider.

1. Experience

Does the coach have experience working with client issues similar to yours?  You’ll want to have a Coach who not only has a number of suggestions that seem wise on the surface, but who also has practical  and proven suggestions on how to help you achieve your goals. Your Coach should have had formal training and have a few references who are willing to e-mail/speak with you regarding their experience.  Make sure the role and expectations of the Coach are clearly outlined and agreed upon.  And make sure you understand the level of participation that is expected of you, the Client.  

2. Credentials

Choose a coach who belongs to trade organizations like the International Coaches Federation (ICF)  www.coachfederation.org.  Affiliations are a sign of value for continued training and of adherence to general standards of professionalism.

 3. Credibility

You are within your rights to ask how long someone has practiced in this profession and how many clients they have successfully Coached.  Select someone that has a solid and quality reputation in the industry.   Your Coach should be active and visible in the industry, publishing books and/or articles, as well as presenting new ideas at professional conferences.  Select a Coach for whom coaching is their primary career choice. 

4.  Methods

Often coaching takes place on the telephone.  These conference calls are convenient for the Client and allow them to access their Coach regardless of where they live. Some Coaches and Clients decide to hold their sessions in person; others by Skype or by email.   If you would prefer a particular meeting location or method, make sure the Coach you're considering will at least discuss your request. 

5. Goals

A good Coach should be able to help you clarify your personal and professional goals.  However, before meeting with anyone, take some time to determine what you want and what you don’t want for your life.  When you do talk with your Coach, inquire as to when you can expect to see results, and what those results might look like. You and your Coach should be able to define a specific direction and what progress will look like as you move toward your goals.

6. Initial Consultation

For most Coaches the initial consultation is usually complimentary.  Being honest as honest and specific as possible will help you make the most of the first session,  bearing in mind that the first consultation is designed for both parties to agree on compatibility.   Your first meeting is vital in establishing the extent to which you and your potential Coach are compatible.  This is an individual with whom you will be revealing personal aspects and details of your life.   You should feel heard and respected during the interaction. 

 7. Fees

Coaching rates vary depending on several factors like the specialty of the Coach and Client.   Fees also vary depending on the duration and frequency of sessions.  Some coaching sessions last 30 minutes, while some  Coaches offer sessions that can last an entire work day.  Some Coaches meet with clients on the telephone, while others meet with Clients in their office.  It is not uncommon for a Coach to provide Clients with various materials, assessment tests or resources to supplement the Coaching experience.  If so, additional fees should be discussed and agreed upon prior to action taken.  Make sure you understand and adhere to the amount of your fees, payment schedule and mode of payment.

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