Most recently, the International Coaching Federation (ICF), the largest non-profit organization for professional coaches announced it had surpassed 50,000 member across the globe. In the last five years, new members grew by more than 20,000. It is no wonder why there is no shortage in finding a coach for support. From starting a new business to bereavement, there is help available. Trained and experienced coaches have the tools to assist you in moving forward in every stage of life.
If you find yourself stuck when it comes to making major decisions, then a Life Coach could be just the right professional that you’re looking for. But, with so many of them out there, some of which work with specific audiences, it’s crucial to know what you can expect from the partnership.
Here, in this post, are some important preparations that you should make before hiring a Life Coach. It will serve as a guide for you to know what to expect as a potential client and, tips on how to choose the right coaching professional.
I’ve also included factors to consider prior to signing a coaching contract / agreement. This will ensure you get the most out of your experience of having a Life Coach by your side.
Get comfortable with being uncomfortable
Have you ever watched those prime time sitcoms where there’s usually a scene in which a nervous and indecisive patient visits the therapist’s office for the first time. The not so subtle yet awkward moment illustrates just how difficult it can be to open up to a stranger even though they are deemed to be proficient in effective communication and problem solving. No one likes the hot seat!
If you are not used to talking about yourself then let me just say you are in for an awakening!
It may come as a surprise that you have complete control as to where and when you can take part in your coaching session. For example, if you are a busy professional who only has time while working out at the gym; in between cardio and weight training, it is totally acceptable to take part in a session as long as the terms are previously agreed upon by you and your Life Coach.
Connecting a with client in a way in which they are most comfortable is always the primary focus here. We know from experience that connections only require willing participants no matter the environment they’re in.
If you’re worried about privacy, minimize the concern by using earphones. Various models exist out there that advertise as ‘sweat resistant’. A handy feature if you perspire a lot. Wireless listening options gives you a wide range of flexibility to remain attentive to the coach while still maximizing your efforts towards a productive workout. Opting for a device that includes a mic will further enhance the experience so that you can get the most out of your coaching session with little to no compromise.
Life Coaching in general involves you getting to know yourself at a deep level in the comfort and safety of a partnership between you and a trained and/or experienced professional. It’s all about you! So, getting ‘comfortable’ with expressing the ‘uncomfortable’ parts of you to create shifts and transformation is what we’re after. It’s not for the lighthearted. Be prepared to gain new insight on what makes you tick.
“Find the coach to fit the goals, not the goals to fit the coach”
Get clear on your goals
Why are you looking to hire a Life Coach? What are you hoping to accomplish with a Life Coach supporting you? These are just some of the questions that can help determine which specific coaching professional will be right for you.
If your goal is to start a business, then Business Coach might fit the role. Maybe you are looking to climb the ranks within your career or switch careers; an Executive or Leadership Coach can help you uncover the hidden talents needed to make you stand out more or get you on the right path for success.
Life Coaches can support you on a huge variety of topics. You choose what they are and the pace in which you will tackle them. Together, we will create an action plan of how it can come together to make it a reality.
Research the ideal candidate
This point can not be stressed enough. Do your research. Don’t just sign on with the first Life Coach that you google on the internet or whomever pops up in your social media feed. You are making an investment into your future. Not to mention opening up unresolved issues to a complete stranger. It takes time to build rapport with another individual, no matter what the requirements are. You may want to start off looking for those with similar professions or experiences as you. Compatibility makes for better interactions. In addition, those in a related field may have surpassed some of the challenges that you are currently facing.
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio
Book a discovery call
Booking a call or an initial consultation with a potential Life Coach is a great way to learn more about what you want from the connection in relation to what they can offer. This is why getting clear on your objectives beforehand is so important.
To say there are many coaches in the industry is an understatement. Yes, I said it. Yet knowing this, please understand not every coach will be right for you. And that’s okay. You are as unique as the challenges you face. Ask the coach about their experiences and how it would correlate with your own situation. If the coach has a social media presence, take the opportunity to explore their content. Does their messages align with your own beliefs? How do they assist clients with challenges like you?
Budget, budget, budget!
Like with any professional service, individual prices may vary. There are no industry guidelines or regulations governing the services and the fees this industry. Some Life Coaches offer packages which are promoted as a set price for a specific, structured plan or list of courses. Pay close attention to the payment options when purchasing coaching packages. It is not uncommon for a Life Coach to request some or all of the payment up front in conjunction with signing the coaching contract or agreement. Any specifications to payment, session length, inclusions or exclusions should be laid out clearly within those documents.
Related post on coaching contracts
Like the famous shoe brand says… “Just Do It”
Simply put, the time to hire a Life Coach is now. What are you waiting for? It didn’t take me long to decide after I shared with my mentor my dream to work with men, women and couples struggling on their fertility journey.
She helped me clarify the possibilities for direction within my career: in the time that it took me to make up my mind just think of all the people who could benefit from my assistance! This conversation over ZOOM video made it even easier to imagine the limitless opportunities there are to connect with people all over the world during the pandemic and beyond.
A final word
Preparing to work with a Life Coach involves making a solid commitment to finding the perfect professional to support you in achieving long and short term goals. Along with a sought after increase in overall satisfaction where life matters are concerned. Taking the time to identify the reasons why you desire a Life Coach, will help narrow down the search. Once you’ve selected a few; book a call, then run the numbers… Choose the one that best accommodates your needs. Preparing for your Life coach partnership is the first step towards a more fulfilling coaching experience. Trust me, you’ll be glad you did.
If you have any questions, comments about this article, please leave them below. Book a free clarity call with me to learn more about my coaching services.
Maxcine W. – Staying Connected
