Executive coaching is a relatively new industry, but it's quickly gaining immense popularity. More and more professionals are discovering the benefits of having an executive coach who can help them become more aware of their shortcomings and help them improve themselves in general.
Here are some helpful tips for finding the best executive coach:
Do not settle for an unqualified coach- An executive coach is a science practitioner based on understanding people. You expect them to be trained in counseling psychology or some other similar discipline, allowing them to understand your particular situation and profile fully.
Find out the coach's area of specialization- To find a competent executive coach, understanding how they work with clients is critical. As many different areas of expertise exist in this field - coaching, leadership development, and organizational change management are the most common.
Check their current clients-If an executive coach can have a lengthy list of satisfied clients, the chances are high that those clients will be able to provide you with some valuable feedback and testimonials.
Look at their website- An executive coach's website should clearly state the services they provide and the areas of expertise they have. Make sure that you can see examples of their work for previous clients.
Check their certifications and credentials- If they are certified, this will prove that they are competent and have the necessary skill-sets to help you.
Ask for references-It's often challenging to find out which coach is right for you, as most of them only provide phone interviews, which are not always thorough. If you ask for references from previous clients, this could be a good way of getting a rough idea of the executive coach's skills and capabilities.
Do not settle for an online coaching service-If you want to ensure that your coaching sessions are as personal and face-to-face as possible; you should avoid using online coaching services. It's much easier to communicate with a natural person than with a computer.
Make sure they have a structured approach-An executive coach should be able to take you through an entire process that will help you improve specific areas of your life or help you reach specific goals in general. A good coach will create an action plan for their clients to help them succeed over time.
Make sure they have the right skills and expertise-Do not assume that because an executive coach has a master's degree, they can coach you. Some executive coaches have an impressive array of credentials but may lack any background in coaching. A good coach will be able to find the right balance between academia and coaching practice.
Although finding a good executive coach is not an easy task, it's possible. By following the tips mentioned above, you should be able to find a competent coach who will help you reach your full potential. Remember that a good executive coach should be able to hold a conversation that's focused on your needs, not just on your own.