How do I choose the right coach for me? 5 things to consider when choosing a coach
If you’ve already read our posts that explain what coaching is and the specifics around integral coaching, you may be wondering: how do I choose the right coach for me? We’ve put together five things to consider when looking for a coach.
What makes a great coach?
A great coach is one that is a thinking partner, that can question, sense, notice, see and help explore what arises. A great coach can help unlock and examine stories of past informing present and future of what is possible. A great coach can help you on your life’s journey of exploration and help shift sense of who you truly are.
How do I choose the right coach for me?
1) Understand what type of coach you are looking for
First, it is important to understand what kind of support you are looking for so do some research so you can narrow down the type of coach that would best suit your needs. It’s also important to check accreditation, experience and chemistry. We would suggest that you go with someone who is accredited to The International Coaching Federation.
2) Trial a few different coaches
Then, it comes now to chemistry and feeling that that particular coach is right for you.
Most coaches offer a free first chemistry or as we call it discovery session. This ranges from 15mins up to an hour. This is a chance to learn more about each other, ask questions and see if it’s a good fit both ways. If you feel uncertain, it’s best to speak to a few others.
3) Do you feel comfortable with the coach?
The coach should be non-judgmental yet able to help the client see areas in which they may be held back. They should be a good listener but willing to ask open or closed ended questions that are able to dig deeper. There should be a sense of trust and a feeling that the space being held is a safe one. There should be a sense of authenticity and connection. It is also important that there is mutual respect in the work and practice that needs to be done to move forward otherwise there will be no change and no progress.
4) Look for referrals or testimonials
If you have friends or colleagues who have had a coach, first find out about their experience. You can also look through the client testimonials of the coaches you are considering so you can get a sense of coaching approach, methodology and whether you will likely be able to connect.
5) Methodology
Coaching with MatterInc starts with a chemistry session which typically lasts from 15 minutes to an hour and is complimentary. This is to see if the fit is right in terms of connection, approach, goals, timing, costs etc. We would recommend a minimum of 6 x 1 hour sessions within which there will also be a 90min discovery sharing session which typically happens at the start of the coaching engagement. Many clients would then continue on a periodic basis to keep accountable, to pivot as life context changes or to just continue to grow and develop.