When I chose my first coach, I looked for one who coached from the expertise or “niche” I needed at that time. My first experience of working with a coach was because my career was no longer fulfilling and did not support the new lifestyle and demands of single parenting. I needed a vocational experience that would re-ignite my own inner fire, so I began searching for coaches that specialized in helping clients find vocational satisfaction. I also looked for coaches that were credentialed by the International Coaching Federation (ICF) https://coachingfederation.org/find-a-coach/hiring-tips. The ICF is one of the global governing bodies for the coaching profession. It was also important for me to find a local coach who was familiar with the market and would be able to share their network with me in my pursuit of moving into a new industry of employment.
After creating a list of several coaches that met the requirements on paper, I scheduled informational interviews with them to see if our personality, style, values, and energy aligned. Did you know that a first impression occurs within 4 seconds of meeting? A first impression and some due diligence is all it takes to determine if you want to do business with someone? Neuroscience plays such a significant role in who we engage and allow ourselves to be vulnerable with. It is especially important in the coach selection process that you feel seen, heard, and understood as you share during each session.
Coaching has continued to be a part of my own well-being strategy. Over the years, life events have occurred that seemed too difficult to handle with just my own wisdom or skills, so I have engaged various coaches for specific desired outcomes. To assist me in the selection process, I created a coach engagement checklist. I look for a coaching professional who will help accelerate the learning curve, help overcome my greatest fears or possibly open pathways that have been closed for years so I can bring my best self to the opportunities ahead of me. The discovery process that occurs while coaching is rewarding, fulfilling and optimizes the quality of life satisfaction. I am grateful for the experiences with each coach.
1) Identify what is causing the most discomfort or dissatisfaction right now?
2) What do you want to be different in your life? Write a concise summary in 2-3 sentences.
3) What is the cost to you and those around you if you do not make changes?
4) What is the budget to invest in the coaching process?
5) When do you want to begin the engagement?
6) How much time will you set aside weekly for your coaching process?
7) What credentials and experience does the coach need to have?
8) Select three coaches to interview.
9) Complete pre-work before the discovery call.
10) Begin the coach selection process.
Places to begin searching for a coach.