The time you spend researching your coach is linked to your success!
Before you start your search, make a list of characteristics that you would want your coach to have. It is a “given” that your coach will be a good listener, but do you need someone who will challenge you and your thoughts and assumptions? Would you feel more comfortable with someone of the same gender, age group, ethnicity? One thing to keep in mind is that you do not need to find a coach that has worked in the same industry or occupation as you. The most effective coaches know that their job is to listen, question, and accompany their client to whatever goal the client has identified. A coach’s life, coaching skill preparation, and generalized work experience trump any single occupation. It is their coaching skills that enable them to accompany any client on their journey.
Intake Interview
When you have your first conversation with your prospective coach, it will be helpful if you come with your list of questions for the coach. Likewise, the coach will have some questions for you. The following are examples of typical questions that the coach might ask you, so having thought about these in advance will be a benefit to you.
- What compelled you to look for a coach?
- What area (e.g., work, life, relationships) would you like to work on in your coaching sessions?
- What would you like to accomplish at the end of the coaching sessions?
- What will this accomplishment mean to you?
Both your and the coach’s questions will help you get to know each other and take that first step in a coaching relationship. Your investment of time in preparing for this intake session will pay off quickly.
