• You feel the 'lonely at the top' syndrome. There are people all around you willing to say 'yes.' Yet what you need is a confidant with whom to explore ideas, vent your frustrations, and provide valuable feedback.

• You're ready to make a major change and know from experience that you can't get there on your own.  Perhaps you want to speed up or ease the process.

• You've been promoted to that fabulous professional or board position and now you want to really master it, but fear you don't have the total package of expertise.

• You're in a long-term position and know you can be more effective, yet are caught in old patterns of behavior.  You're not sure how to break out of it. 

• Your self esteem has taken a hit. You're going through a divorce, demotion through downsizing, or loss of your job.  During this period, your clear focus on who you want to become is vital to your success.   

• Credentials: as with a doctor or attorney, look for credentials.  Unlike these two professions, anyone can decide today that they are a coach and promote themselves as such.  Credentials help you sort qualified coaches from the rest.

• Experience & track record: what specific experience does this executive coach have in relation to your needs?  If you are a CEO, has this 'coach' worked with other CEO's or C-level clients?  What has his or her success rate been?

• References: as with hiring any professional ask for references.  LinkedIn or websites are great ways to read up on your prospective coach.  Look for quality, not something thrown together last week.  Be wary of testimonials without names.  Ask to speak with references and be armed with specific questions aimed at your needs.

• Chemistry:  you need to feel safe in interacting with this individual; to be able to communicate openly and honestly without fear of being judged.  Remember, coaching is all about you and your needs, not about the coach.

If you are challenged with this concept of 'hiring an executive coach,' begin with taking small steps.  Hire one of our coaches to guide you.  At GV&A, we have a variety of skilled, talented, certified coaches to serve you. It can be fun and easier than you think to attain the success you are after.

To see more of my published articles, including '"Falling In Love...With Yourself," go to:

Golden Visions & Associates, Coaching for Executive and Leadership Success. 

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