HOW TO CHOOSE A COACH?

Choosing A Coach

How to Choose a Coach?

Before you decide to hire a coach, consider the following points: and complete this simple self-evaluation.


First, determine if you need one.

  • Are you fulfilled in your life?
  • Are you happy with your relationships?
  • Are you happy with yourself?
  • If you have been in business for over 5 years, have you met your business goals thus far?
  • Do you feel you possess the knowledge, skill level, drive, discipline, and determination to grow your business to where you want it to be within a reasonable time frame?
  • Do you feel you will reach your goals if you continue to run your business or personal life the way you do right now?


While this may be a simple test, chances are if you answered ‘No’ to any of these questions, you may want to consider talking to a professional coach about how they can help you reach your business and/or personal goals.


When selecting your coach, below are some of the areas we suggest you discuss with your potential coach. We suggest you use this information to interview your coach and ask lots of questions.

Background: What is the background of the coach, have they come from a commercial background or from a therapeutic background or a mix of both?

Experience: Does their experience match the areas in which you need support? What organizational level they have worked in? This is particularly relevant if you are selecting a coach for a senior leader or executive. What kind of assignments have they taken on?

References: All good coaches should be able to supply references from previous clients.

Types of assignments: Have they focused more on Business Coaching, Career coaching or Work-life Balance Coaching? You obviously want to select the coach who will focus on the areas you feel you need the most support.

Personal Characteristics: There are many to consider, here are just a few: How good are they at giving feedback, and what is their method of support, and does it match your personality? Are they good listeners, i.e., do they hear and understand what you are saying to them, can they be flexible with their style and methods, do you feel you can be open to their suggestions, can they motivate you, and do they encourage new thinking and ideas?


Qualifications: At present, the field of coaching is not regulated and coaches can take a number of training routes from short courses to masters-level qualifications. The depth of study, level of qualification, practical extend of coaching experi­ence, expertise, and also support received throughout the coaching career will defer from coach to coach. Focus on how they continue with professional development and which professional bodies they are members of.

Tools and Methods: A good coach will be able to use a wide range of tools and methods and show flexibility in how and when they use them. Beware of the one size fits all approach. You should also explore how they construct a coaching program, how much will it be aligned with you and your business.


Other Considerations: Look for the following criteria: Is he/she organized? Does he/she act in a professional manner? Does he/she have course outlines or materials to share with you or is he/she able to suggest a course design or session goals for your specific needs that seem reasonable? Does he/she present a clear coaching plan and answer your questions about the coaching situation, style, and delivery to your satisfaction? Does the coaching plan include evaluation? Do you find him/her personable and knowledgeable? If you have staff that will be trained, do you think they will enjoy learning from this person?


The decision to seek the services of a Business and or Life Coach is often made because of the many benefits currently recognized. Apart from personal benefits for the individual, (increased self-awareness, better goal-setting, etc.), surveys have also found clear links to improvement in business performance metrics, such as quality, productivity, and revenue.

When you find the coach that is right for you, your path suddenly becomes an adventure. With insightful questions and perceptive observations, a coach can guide you through inspiring moments and groundbreaking realizations. Without a doubt, a coach can change your world.


Today, many coaches profile their services on the Internet and offer some information about their background and experience. Some include a photo of themselves. As you explore and absorb this information, pay attention to how you feel. Listen to your heart as well as your head. Does this person resonate with you? Could you open up with this person?


There are many routes for people to become coaches, and as of yet, the coaching market is not regulated. We provide this information as a means to help you choose the right coach for you. The quality of coaching and the results you want to see depend significantly on the selection of the coach you make, and the correct match between coach and client.


Finding the right coach for you is extremely important. It's essential that you feel safe and that you can trust your coach. To help you make this decision, I offer a free 1-hour no-obligation sample session. To book your session, please email me or call (818) 427-2752.

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