In the last newsletter, we explored what coaching is and how people can benefit from it. (Read What is this Coaching Thing, Anyway? at my blog.)

As my promised follow-up to that article, here are three important questions to ask before you hire a coach:

Are you certified as a coach?
Anyone who is serious about coaching as a profession will either be certified or working on their certification. If you choose to hire a coach outside of this framework, do so cautiously.

Have you participated in and completed a coach training program?
Certified professional coaches have been through a rigorous training program and certification process. Because of the increasing popularity of coaching, many people who are not professional coaches are calling themselves coaches. Organizational development and human resources personnel, managers, salespeople, professional trainers, and even professional speakers are calling themselves coaches. Even though they may have 20 years of experience and may be extremely competent in their areas of expertise, unless they have formal coach training, it’s unlikely that they understand the complexities of professional coaching.

How long have you been coaching professionally?
With the flood of people calling themselves coaches, look for someone who has at least two or three years’ experience. It is possible to find coaches who have been coaching 8–12 years. These are very experienced coaches; they have seen a lot and know what works and what doesn’t. Their fees will be higher than those of less-experienced coaches, but a more effective coach is worth the additional investment.

Working with a coach is a great way to create a life that you love. There are a lot of great coaches doing great work in Houston and around the world. If you’re thinking of hiring a coach, we hope these last two newsletters can serve as a resource to help you find the best coach for you.

Please let us know if there is any way Greystone Guides can assist you in your search for a coach or your quest for a great life.