Written by: Martin J. Fisher, 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.
Coaching is the Wild West. Anybody who wants to call themselves a coach ‒ can, and there’s no regulation of what that even means. In fact, any old Joe can put up a website advertising themselves as a coach or consultant in their area of expertise and start charging for services.
The problem, of course, is that coaching is not just some hobby you take up in your spare time to help your friends and family. Coaching is a full-time career and business which requires serious dedication, training, and focus.
Let's take a closer look at what ‘coaching’ means in today's society and the things you should actually take into consideration when choosing a coach.
There is no national standard for what constitutes a valid coaching certification or credential.
While there is no national standard for what constitutes a valid coaching certification or credential, there are some clear trends in the industry.
Many coaches use their own methodologies and techniques to address clients’ needs. These methods may include hypnosis, visualization, yoga, and other practices that many consider “alternative” health care.
What about those organizations offering coaching certifications?
There are several organizations that offer some form of accreditation and certification for coaches, but these are entirely voluntary and self-regulated.
ICF – the International Coach Federation – is not an accredited school. It is also not licensed by any government agency, nor does it claim to offer professional coaching training or certification.
As such, while some employers require that employees have taken courses or completed training programs before they can work with clients directly, these requirements are up to individual companies—there's no government agency governing the coaching industry.
When hiring a coach, where should your focus be directed?
Instead of focusing on their credentials, focus on their experience and results. Look for a coach that understands your needs, your goals and suits your lifestyle.
You should consider their experience. Ask about the type of clients they work with and the results their clients have seen. Your coach should be able to provide case studies or testimonials from previous clients that can point you in the right direction.
Many coaches come from a corporate background where they've worked in teams or at senior levels before turning to coach as an alternative career option.
This means they're used to working with people who have similar backgrounds and experiences to themselves. These coaches typically have extensive experience and understand how to work with clients on different levels.
Choose a coach based on their style, vibe, and focus.
Look for a coach who is a good fit for you and your style. Not all coaches are the same, even if they work with the same clientele.
For example, Some coaches will give assignments during sessions; others prefer to talk about what's going on in your life without assigning outside requirements.
Some other things to keep in mind when choosing a coach include:
Is this person genuine and do they have my best interest at heart?
Is this person easy to talk to? Are they open-minded? Do they ask open-ended questions or listen intently and actively?
Is this person supportive and encouraging (without being overbearing)? Do they make me feel empowered rather than powerless when discussing personal issues that arise during sessions together – such as finances, etc...?
Do they stand for me?
When choosing a coach, don't be swayed by the person's credentials.
Choose a coach who has the experience and can help you with your unique needs and situation. Just because a coach has a certified life coach doesn't mean that they are the best person for you. You want to find someone who has experience with your specific situation and can help you achieve your goals.
Why work with MJF Coaching?
I’m very transparent about my credentials and experience. Though I may not be certified through ICF, I DO come with over 20 years of real-life experience working in the corporate world.
Before opening MJF Coaching and Development, I served as the district manager of 27 retail and hospital pharmacies and mentored and coached countless new pharmacists and pharmacy students. I was responsible for the development and growth of 10 plus new businesses.
I’ve taken my experience and now provide customized programs with a proven strategy that simply works. I’ve successfully applied my proven strategy to many industries and have coached clients from around the world.
Today I measure my success by the transformations I coach my clients through. Today I make a difference! If you’re thinking about working with a coach, I’d love to talk to hear about you and your goals!
Martin J. Fisher, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Martin is a Life Results Coach with a proven track record as a health care professional and corporate executive. He left that all behind to follow his calling to serve clients to create fulfilled lives they love. His expertise in health & wellness, pivoting & developing careers, and life patterns unite into the perfect holistic approach when creating your new life.
