In today's coaching landscape, where options abound, it's crucial to sift through the myriad choices and find a coach who offers valuable insights rather than questionable advice for a fee. While I respect the diversity within the coaching industry, I'd like to shed light on my approach rather than critique my peers.
I'm not here to claim perfection or tout myself as the "best coach out there." Instead, I aim to be one of the dedicated professionals in this dynamic field. Coaching has grown into a booming industry, attracting individuals with varying levels of experience. The ease of entry has led to a mix of highly qualified experts and those still gaining their footing.
To help you make an informed decision, I want to share a bit about my background, beliefs, and the principles I uphold as a coach.
Certification Matters: While certification isn't mandatory, I believe it provides a structured foundation, guidelines, and consistency for both coaches and clients. My certification through iPEC Coaching involved rigorous training, including 400 hours of in-person sessions, coursework, webinars, peer-to-peer coaching, and mentorship. Ongoing participation in iPEC training ensures I stay current and continuously enhance my skills.
Experience Counts: Unlike some professions, coaching doesn't have specific fieldwork hour requirements. There are no requirements to be an "expert" in the area you choose to coach. Nevertheless, I recognize the importance of practical experience. With 30 years in business management, leadership, and high-performance team building, I bring a wealth of knowledge to my coaching practice. My diverse experience includes corporate-level management positions, a degree in Business Management, successfully managing my own business for fifteen years, and working with hundreds of trades-industry businesses in areas of organizational, leadership, and process development.
References for Assurance: When investing in a coach, doing your due diligence is crucial. It's essential to interview coaches rigorously, seeking credentials and references. While confidentiality limits the disclosure of full names, coaches should be willing to provide case studies. I am confident in my ability to offer references, enabling potential clients to gain insights into my coaching approach and its impact.
Customization vs Cookie-Cutter: In the world of coaching and consulting programs, it's crucial to be discerning. You may have noticed a lot of coaching programs with acronyms popping up in blogs, books, and podcasts. These programs are very popular, some are effective, and many are expensive in comparison to industry standards. Many operate on a "franchise" model, where facilitators specialize in a set of tools, potentially lacking expertise in broader business areas. These programs may struggle to adapt to your unique business needs. Rather than investing in an expensive, generic solution, consider a consultant with industry-specific experience. This ensures a more tailored, cost-effective approach that aligns with your goals and local business landscape.
Choosing the right coach is a significant investment in your business. By understanding the importance of certification, valuing practical experience, and seeking references, you can make an informed decision. If you have questions or need guidance on finding the right coach for your needs, feel free to reach out for a no-obligation consultation.
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