Coaching works because it's all about you. When you connect with what you really want and why - and take action - magical things can happen.
Emma-Louise Elsey
Choosing a coach is as much and art as a science. Coaching is a deeply personal relationship, ultimately it must feel right for you. The more you know like and trust your coach, the more you will put into coaching. The more you give to a coaching relationship the more you will get in return.
What is coaching?
The International Coaching Federation (ICF) defines coaching as “partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential.”
Think of a life coach as your personal cheerleader, strategist, guide, mentor and accountability coach, all rolled into one. They help you figure out what you truly want, create a plan to get there, and overcome any obstacles along the way. It’s like having a supportive friend who’s also an expert in helping you reach your full potential.
how will a coach help you succeed?
A life coach can help you succeed by bringing;
Clarity: A coach will help you define purpose and envision the life you want.
Insight: We constantly repeat behaviours that no longer work for us. A coach will help you see this and help you overcome what is holding you back.
Action: It’s easy to get stuck in a rut. A life coach helps you break through that rut to take those first steps.
Accountability: A life coach is your built-in accountability partner, helping you stay on track and when you need it give you a nudge in the right direction.
Celebration: – a great coach will highlight and celebrate your wins with you. Its easy to lose sight of how far we have come in a coaching relationship.
Support: Life can be tough. A life coach offers a safe space to talk about your challenges and get the encouragement you need.
Tips for finding a coach
Choose where to focus: What areas of your life would you like to improve? Career, relationships, health, personal growth, something else? Knowing your focus will help you find a coach with the right expertise.
Do Your Research: Ask for recommendations, browse online directories, and check out coaching websites. Many coaches use LinkedIn, check out their reviews. If its important to you, look for coaches who specialise in areas such as your gender, age or life stage, life experience and challenges. Follow them on social media – does their work and approach appeal to you?
Schedule a Discovery Call: Most coaches offer free introductions , these are often known as Discovery Calls. This is your chance to get a feel for their personality, style, and approach.
Trust your gut: Choose someone YOU connect with. It doesn’t matter how how big their social media presence is, how qualified or expensive they area, YOU need to connect with them and feel they are the right person for you
Questions to ask a potential coach
The Discovery Call is the chance to work out whether the coach you are talking to is right for you.
Here are some questions that could help with that.
What’s your coaching philosophy, methodology or approach?
What’s your experience working with women / people in my situation?
How do you measure success? How would you ensure my success?
What are your fees and packages?
(Tip – do they expect payment up front, or are payment schedules or subscription an option?)
How many sessions are in the programme? Is there a maximum time in which I need to have used all of the sessions?
What is your cancellation policy?
How do you approach accountability in your coaching?
(Tip – this is how your coach will ensure you commit to what you say you’ll done. This is where your transformation will happen)
What kind of coaching or mentorship have you received yourself?
(Tip – choose a coach who has had significant coaching themselves. They’ll have valuable insight into your experience.)
How do you stay up-to-date on the latest coaching techniques and research?
(Tip – A good coach is committed to continuous learning and improvement. They will be interested in your feedback and what they can do to improve your experience in working with them)
Every best wish
I wish you every success on your coaching journey. The old saying is true – the more you give , the more you get – from coaching.
Coaching has been life changing for me, its why I’ve become a coach. I see peoples lives transformed in ways they could never imagine. I wish the same for you!
