Top Tips for picking your coach.

What area does the coach specialise in?
It could be executive coaching, life coaching, sport, nutrition, performance, industry specific, and so many more areas.  And don’t forget that a coach is different from a counsellor.  If your issues are deeply emotional, is long standing and has become ingrained, it could be that a counsellor is closer to what you need.  Once you know what the coach specialises in, you can see if it meets your need.

You will get out what you put in.
How important is the issue for you?  The reason why I ask is that just chatting to a coach is unlikely to fix your problem.  You will need to do some homework.  You will need time to implement the actions you have discussed and prepare for your next coaching session.

Do you connect?
Is there chemistry between you and the coach?   You need to be able to say anything to your coach without feeling judged.  Do you feel the coach has a deep understanding of your problem?  They don’t need to have been in your situation, but they need to have empathy.  Do you think you will get on with your coach?  If your gut feeling is that you don’t think you can really work with this coach – then don’t.

Speak to more than one coach.
All coaches are different.  Some teach a range of methods methods, such as NLP, holistic, CBT, but then add their own experience and delivery method.  Make sure it feels right for you.

Ask questions about how they deliver their coaching.
Is it one to one?  Do you need to have several sessions?  How frequently will these happen?  And of course, how much do they charge?

Do you have confidence in their abilities?
Were they recommended, are they accredited, do they have case studies they can share with you?

Don’t forget that the coach also needs to feel that they can help you.  A good coach will be honest and tell you if they feel that they are not the right coach for you.

Good Luck in finding your perfect coach.