Six Steps to Creating a Satisfying Coaching Partnership

LEXINGTON, Ky., Sept. 20 /PRNewswire/ -- Those considering coaching to help them reach their goals will be interested to know that most coaching clients are satisfied with their coaching experience. According to the new ICF Global Consumer Awareness Study, 83 percent of respondents who had coaching were somewhat to very satisfied.

While every coaching partnership is unique, steps to help make it a satisfying experience are the same. The International Coach Federation offers consumers six steps for creating the best coaching partnership possible.

1. Do your homework. You may have heard that coaching can help people find better jobs, manage work-life balance or improve relationships, but do you really know how it works? Today there are coaches with a vast array of specialties including business, relationship, spiritual, health and wellness, life planning and many more. Educate yourself about the coaching process and what you can expect from a coaching relationship. Read books on coaching at your local library or visit the ICF website Coachfederation.org.

2. Know what you want from coaching. Think about the kinds of goals you want to create for your life and outline your objectives for working with a coach. Do you have your eyes set on a new business venture? Are you hoping to improve your communication skills or become a more effective leader? Coaching will provide the pathway to your goals, but it is ultimately up to you to decide where you want to go. Set realistic expectations and know that you are responsible for your own learning, growth and progress. Your coach will be there to hold you accountable.

3. Consider your personal preferences. Certified or credentialed coaches, no matter what their background, are trained to listen, observe and customize their approach to individual client needs. But are there other qualities that would make you feel more comfortable with your coach? What about his or her professional experience, coaching specialties offered, your desired coaching method (in person or face-to-face), language, or location? The Coach Referral Service (CRS) at Coachfederation.org/CRS is a great place to start your search based on your specific preferences in these areas.

4. Shop around. Interview three coaches before you decide on one. Ask each about his or her experience, qualifications and skills - does the coach follow a code of ethics or belong to a coaching professional association? And don't forget to ask for at least two references. If you know someone who has been coached, ask for recommendations - satisfied coaching clients are highly likely to advocate their coach to others.

5. Connect. Coaching is an important relationship. There should be a connection between you and the coach that "feels" right to you. Many coaches will offer a complimentary first-time coaching session to help you both decide. Again, think about your objectives for working with a coach. Do you feel comfortable addressing those goals with this person?

6. Put it in writing. Be sure you have a written agreement in place for coaching services. As with any business arrangement, putting everything in writing provides a record for what both parties have agreed upon and diminishes the potential for misunderstanding.

ICF defines coaching as partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential. Coaching is a distinct service and differs greatly from therapy, consulting, mentoring or training. Individuals who engage in a coaching relationship can expect to experience fresh perspectives on personal challenges and opportunities, enhanced thinking and decision-making skills, enhanced interpersonal effectiveness, and increased confidence in carrying out their chosen work and life roles.

The International Coach Federation is the leading global organization for coaches, with over 15,500 members in more than 90 countries, dedicated to advancing the coaching profession by setting high ethical standards, providing independent certification, and building a worldwide network of credentialed coaches. The ICF is the only organization that awards a global credential which is currently held by more than 6,600 coaches worldwide. For more information, please visit our website at http://www.coachfederation.org.

ICF HEADQUARTERS CONTACT:

Ann Jarvis, +1.859.226.4428, [email protected]

This press release was issued through eReleases(R).  For more information, visit eReleases Press Release Distribution at http://www.ereleases.com.

SOURCE International Coach Federation

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