Written by: Paulina Stankiewicz, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
How do you navigate the coaching maze when faced with a sea of thousands of coaches, some of whom may sound as familiar as your teenage daughter? And why is it absolutely essential that you embark on this journey?
Let's dive into the numbers to paint a clearer picture:
By 2024, it's projected that there will be a staggering 145,500 certified coaches worldwide. With the official coaching industry reaching approximately $6.25 billion in 2024, and showing a remarkable 17% year-over-year growth rate until 2023, it's evident that coaching has become a significant force in professional development.
But here's the kicker: some data suggests that the overall coaching industry has already soared past the $20 billion mark, indicating its substantial impact and ever-expanding reach. The numbers don't lie, and they speak volumes about the undeniable effectiveness and popularity of coaching.
Consider this: a staggering 99% of employers recognize coaching as having a positive or very positive impact on their businesses. Furthermore, a whopping 80% of coaching clients report experiencing improvements in their self-esteem or self-confidence as a direct result of coaching.
It's clear that the coaching industry isn't just booming—it's thriving. And with a median return on investment of seven times the initial investment, it's not hard to see why. The numbers paint a compelling picture: coaching works, and it works wonders.
So, why is it crucial to navigate this bustling coaching landscape? Because amidst the vast sea of coaches, finding the right one—one who resonates with your goals, values, and aspirations—can make all the difference in your personal and professional growth journey.
In a world where the right guidance can mean the difference between success and stagnation, navigating the coaching maze isn't just necessary—it's essential.
The choice to hire a coach can make or break your business. Every CEO, at some juncture in their career, finds themselves inadvertently hindering their company's growth. Surprisingly, this bottleneck is often attributed to mental capacity, comprising a staggering 80%, while only 20% is related to strategy and skills.
Enter coaching—a formidable solution to this pervasive issue. It's not just any solution; it's the best one. But with a plethora of coaches out there, each seemingly more cheerful and promising than the last, how do you discern the right fit? In this blog post, I aim to be your guiding light through this daunting process, helping you identify the coach who can truly deliver results for you and your business, while weeding out those who fall short of the mark.
1. Coaching vs. mentoring vs. counseling
Let's begin by clarifying what coaching entails and what it doesn't. Coaching revolves around a collaborative relationship between the coach and the client, characterized by mutual respect and an emphasis on the client's growth and development. It hinges on trust and confidentiality, with the coach working to unearth insights from the client's conscious and subconscious mind. Our beliefs and convictions, ingrained since childhood, act as the software shaping our lives. Coaching aims to propel clients forward, fostering inspiration, vision, and present-moment awareness to pave the way for desired futures.
In contrast, mentoring involves a mentor guiding and instructing the client, primarily focusing on strategies and practical how-to's rather than delving into deeper psychological realms.
Unlike coaches, mentors aren't required to hold specific qualifications, relying instead on their own experiences and expertise.
Counseling, psychology, and therapy, on the other hand, center on addressing past traumas and healing emotional wounds—a markedly different focus and energy compared to coaching. While therapists may approach sessions with a problem-solving mindset, coaches prioritize exploring the client's aspirations and desires.
A key distinction lies in the initial questions posed by each. Therapists often ask, "What is your problem, and how can I fix it?" whereas coaches inquire, "What do you want?"—highlighting the forward-looking, goal-oriented nature of coaching.
2. Characteristics of an outstanding C-suite coach
As a CEO or C-suite leader, it's crucial to find a coach who can handle your energy without hesitation. A remarkable coach isn't afraid to challenge you, call out any self-deception, and isn't intimidated by your success or financial status. If you feel like you can easily overpower your coach, it's a red flag; hiring them would likely be a waste of your time and money.
Feeling triggered by your coach is a positive sign—it signifies growth, as discomfort often precedes progress.
I once encountered a CEO from a lucrative gaming company, earning multiple 8-figures annually. Despite his initial enthusiasm, he hesitated upon hearing the investment amount, indicating that he sought validation rather than genuine coaching. It's essential to recognize that while acknowledgment and celebrating wins are part of coaching, cheerleading alone doesn't constitute effective coaching.
Moreover, it's imperative to choose a coach with strong business acumen, ideally with global experience across various industries. This diverse background enables them to marry intuition with practical insights when guiding you.
Look for coaches with international certifications, ensuring they possess the necessary tools and techniques for professional coaching. Additionally, they should excel in goal-setting and strategic planning, acting as your partner in defining your vision, mission, and values.
Finally, personal compatibility is key. Trust your instincts—do you trust this person? Do they inspire you? Do they embody success and authenticity? Can you learn from their experiences?
Remember, every coaching relationship should begin with a clear agreement, outlining expectations regarding confidentiality, trust, ethics, goal-setting, and feedback. This upfront discussion, known as "designing alliance," sets the foundation for a fruitful coaching journey.
How would you like to get support in creating space to think for yourself? Here is a free resource CEO Hour Worksheet that you can download.
3. The influence of high-quality coaching: What you can expect
Coaching can yield swift and remarkable outcomes. In my experience, clients have seen their businesses soar, with some quadrupling their revenue, securing clients that yield seven times return on investment within just three months, or expanding into new global markets.
On a personal level, clients have achieved significant transformations, such as shedding impressive amounts of weight (with the record being 12 kg), kicking the habit of smoking (often after just one session), or liberating themselves from unhappy relationships, whether romantic, platonic, or business-related.
When done effectively, coaching has the power to elevate you as an individual, fundamentally altering your identity for the better. You'll remain the same person, but vastly improved—a version of yourself capable of transcending limitations and tapping into your inner superhero, where possibilities are endless.
In the corporate realm, team coaching can foster a more positive company culture, deeper engagement, and heightened employee satisfaction. When leaders feel seen and understood, they are better equipped to extend the same empathy and support to their team members, creating an environment ripe for success.
I once had the privilege of assisting an international organization grappling with years of disarray and lack of cohesion due to various challenges, including global dispersion and conflicting priorities. In just four hours of intensive coaching, we achieved remarkable clarity, alignment, and a concrete action plan that left everyone involved satisfied and motivated.
This anecdote underscores the effectiveness of coaching in driving rapid and impactful change—cultures thrive when progress is swift and decisive.
4. Indicators of an exceptional coach
When seeking a coach, prioritize their experience, credentials, and reputation (look for testimonials on their website). Nowadays, you can thoroughly vet them by exploring their website, social media presence, and YouTube channel. Tune into the coach's energy, watch
their video content, read their posts, and ask yourself if you resonate with them. Consider: Would you enjoy having lunch with them?
Additionally, assess the coach's commitment to ongoing learning and personal growth. A coach who continuously invests in their development ensures a longer-lasting coaching relationship, as ongoing inspiration is maintained. Look for coaches who offer valuable content and tools to complement your coaching journey, as much growth occurs outside of formal sessions.
Most importantly, trust is paramount. Evaluate if you trust the coach, if you feel comfortable opening up to them, and if you believe in their professionalism. Your willingness to be coached and share your truth directly impacts the effectiveness of coaching.
Keep in mind that high-quality coaching comes with a higher price tag. Similar to cars, investing in a Porsche or Rolls-Royce provides a different experience than opting for a Skoda. While all may function, the level of investment influences your commitment and willingness to do the necessary work, particularly the uncomfortable aspects. Thus, the more results and value you seek from coaching, the greater the investment may need to be.
Once you believe you've found the right coach, schedule a call to validate your choice. Ask questions and trust your gut instinct. Remember, intuition should guide your decision-making, while sabotaging thoughts comes second. Trust yourself and your instincts as you make this important decision.
If you want to explore coaching tools, feel free to visit my website and grab free resources here.
5. Navigating safely: Common mistakes to avoid
Based on my own experience of choosing the wrong coach, I'd like to share some key observations for you to consider. Firstly, if the coach comes across as affable and easy to talk to, but lacks a sense of mutual respect and professionalism, beware. While it may feel pleasant, such dynamics often lead to limited growth.
If your company assigns you a coach and you don't resonate with them, but hesitate to voice your concerns, it's a warning sign. Effective coaching requires openness and alignment; holding back from the outset undermines its potential. Don't hesitate to request a change or seek out your own coach.
During your initial meeting, if the coach fails to discuss the designed alliance, the coaching process, or your goals and expectations, it's cause for concern. Similarly, if they don't provide a clear coaching agreement and invoice beforehand, financial discussions may be avoided, potentially complicating matters later on.
Beware of coaches who readily agree with everything you say, failing to challenge or guide you. As a C-suite executive, you need a coach who exudes leadership and isn't afraid to steer the conversation. If they don't push your boundaries or address self-sabotage tendencies, they may not be providing the transformative coaching experience you need.
Remember, a good coach won't try to fix you or assume responsibility for your life and business. Coaching is about empowerment and personal growth, with you at the helm. Expecting your coach to coddle you is a misconception; instead, seek an equal partnership where you can thrive and learn to lead your life with confidence.
Would you welcome more clarity in your business? Grab this free CEO Hour Worksheet that will help you make time to think and act consciously.
6. Navigating coaching pitfalls: Recognizing red flags and finding your way out
When facing challenges in your coaching program, it's essential to approach them with courage and clarity. Firstly, muster the courage to address any concerns you have directly with your coach. Give them the benefit of the doubt and allow them the opportunity to explain their methods and perspective.
Secondly, engage in honest self-reflection. Ask yourself probing questions such as, "Am I giving my best effort? Am I remaining open to new insights? What positive aspects exist within this coaching relationship?" It's natural to encounter moments of discomfort or resistance, but by focusing on the positives and committing to self-growth, you may find the relationship shifts positively.
If despite your efforts, the coaching relationship still feels unsatisfactory, refer to your coaching agreement and termination clause. Just as with any contractual agreement, it's
crucial to seek closure respectfully and professionally. Remember, both you and your coach deserve to work with individuals who are fully committed to the coaching process.
7. Where are they!? Proven strategies for finding the right fit
Seek recommendations: Begin by reaching out to your network for referrals. The coaching relationship thrives on trust, making personal recommendations invaluable. Ask trusted contacts about their experiences with coaches they've worked with.
Utilize LinkedIn: Browse your LinkedIn connections for potential coach recommendations. LinkedIn allows you to view profiles and content, giving you insights into a coach's expertise and approach.
Consult HR (with caution): While HR may offer guidance on finding a coach, be mindful of potential conflicts of interest. Sometimes, HR may have their own agenda, so consider seeking out a coach independently for unbiased support.
Evaluate company-suggested coaches: If your company provides a list of recommended coaches, take time to assess your comfort level with the assigned coach. Don't hesitate to request a change if needed; your coaching relationship should be built on trust and alignment.
Consider self-investment: Investing your own money in coaching can provide greater freedom and confidentiality. Many top leaders find value in private coaching sessions, especially when exploring sensitive topics or options beyond company boundaries.
Ultimately, the right coach can empower you to make informed decisions and achieve personal and professional growth. Choose wisely to ensure a fruitful coaching partnership tailored to your unique needs and aspirations.
In conclusion, coaching continues to gain popularity because it delivers results. Just as top athletes rely on coaches to excel in their sports, business leaders can benefit immensely from working with a skilled coach.
Remember, not all coaches are created equal. It's essential to make a deliberate and informed choice when selecting a coach to ensure the best possible outcome for your personal and professional growth.
By investing in self-mastery through coaching, you can gain a competitive advantage and achieve exponential results in your business endeavors.
If you found this article valuable, I encourage you to share it with your network. For more information about my coaching services, please visit my website or explore our offers here.
Thank you for your attention, and here's to your continued success!
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Paulina Stankiewicz, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Paulina is a World Class Leadership Coach for CEOs who excels at igniting iconic presence and personal power in top-tier leaders. She is also an International Speaker and Author. For over 15 years, she held senior roles in Global Corporations serving Fortune 100 companies. This experience coupled with her MBA for Executives allows her to bring the business conversations with her clients to the next level. She is focused on improving the culture of organisations — starting with the top. She holds multiple International certifications and has been trained by the best teachers and coaches in the world. Her mission is to change the world, one leader at a time.
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