Five Questions to Ask a Prospective Coach

The following will give you important information that you need in order to choose a coach that offers the perspective you’re looking for. Feel free to copy this down for those times when you want to interview a prospective coach.

Question One: Where were you trained?

Up until a few years ago virtually anyone could hang a “shingle” out and call themselves a coach. This has changed. Many coaching schools now offer extensive professional training certified through the International Coach Federation (ICF) which sets worldwide standards for coaching practice. It’s wise to hire someone who has been trained in an ICF program. If you wish, you can ask what school they attended and then Google to see if that school is accredited through ICF.

Question Two: What is your approach to coaching?

Check on your coach’s philosophy. Does he or she follow one that appeals to you? Talk at some length about this. Most coaches are happy to discuss what they do and why. Coaches use a variety of approaches. There isn’t a list of the variety of styles. However, when you talk with them and get your questions answered you’ll get a sense about whether or not he or she is a coach you can work with. You can also ask this person what he or she sees as the difference between coaching and psychotherapy or counseling. Go to the area on this website that talks about “what a coach does” where I talk about this very important difference.

Question Three: What can I expect out of working with you?

How many sessions does this coach recommend you try before you can see if this coaching approach is effective? How does your coach measure effectiveness? For example, does this person stress insight or measurable results? Or a combination of both?

Question Four: What do you charge?

Fees vary, anywhere from $60 to $300 for a 45-50 minute session. It is important to check your coach’s experience and credentials. For example, does he or she have an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) Professional Certified Coach (PCC) or Master Certified Coach(MCC) credential from ICF? How long has he or she been coaching people?

Question Five: Will there be a coaching contract? If so, what does it cover?

A coaching contract is standard with most coaches. The contract usually specifies the number of sessions, fee structure, the time for each session, who is responsible for making contact if by phone, and the cancellation policy. In addition, most contracts will make it clear that coaching is not psychotherapy and that the client should let the coach know at any time if the client feels psychotherapy would be more appropriate.

Summary

You might want to review these questions as you think about whether or not coaching is right for you at this time. Whatever you decide, remember one thing: coaching is not a luxury. It is a necessity for those who want to achieve important life goals. A coach will help you streamline your path to success, thereby saving you time, money and physical energy. Yes, you do deserve a coach.