What to consider when choosing a Coach
Coaching is an incredibly effective development route that is totally supportive of the person who is being coached (known as a coachee). It is arguably the fastest route to achieving what you want, because it is tailored to your needs and learning style. Also, your specific situations or dilemmas are used to help develop you, rather than theories. A good coach is:
- Totally focused on you
- An active listener
- Non-judgemental
- Aware of your learning style, motivational trigger points and what you want to achieve
- Extremely supportive of what you want to achieve
- Aware of how challenging change can be to some people
Investing in a coach is investing in yourself, providing you choose one that's right for you. As with all professions, you need to do your research, and here is a checklist to help you decide the right coach for you.
1. Am I ready to be coached - Are you at a stage where you want to change, grow, develop or achieve something? Are you willing to make the efforts required to do this?
2. What do I want to accomplish (generally at least) and can the coach fulfil this? Does he or she have a proven track-record that makes me feel they can help?
3. Do I feel that I will develop a rapport with this coach?
4. Does the coach have a lot of common sense?
5. What relevant qualifications and/or skills does the coach hold for me?
6. Do I get the feeling that the coach can motivate me to take action and have my interests at heart?
7. Are they listening to what I am saying?
8. Do I want the coach to make sure I always come up with the solution, or would I like options from them when I am stuck?
These points will help you to decide as to the right coach. This is based on experience and also listening to what my clients say to me.