Seven Things to Ask When Choosing an Executive Coach

The most valuable resource of any organization is its people. An organization that supports, values and acknowledges what staff bring, is more likely to survive and prosper. Executive Coaching, the support process of choice for many organizations, can enhance work satisfaction along with productivity and staff retention. But Coaching is not cheap. How do we choose a Coach most likely to give us a great return on our investment?

1. Ask about the Executive Coach’s Methods

A professional Coach uses proven techniques to establish clear goals, explore situations, consider ways forward and take positive action. They use models that enhance communication and promote learning and professional development in an empowering and sustainable way. Find out what their methods are.

2. Ask about their Coaching Philosophy

Accredited and experienced Executive Coaches will consciously work to ethical codes and philosophical frameworks, to ensure the best possible service for their clients. Ask them to tell you about their coaching ethics and philosophy.

3. Ask about Quality Assurance

Professional Coaches assure quality by regularly reviewing progress with their clients. Their programs will also be evaluated with clients to demonstrate exactly what the outcomes are for the individual and the organization. Ask them about their review and evaluation processes.

4. Ask for Testimonials

Satisfied clients will be happy to reflect on the benefits of the Executive Coaching service as part of the evaluation process, and after coaching has ended. Ask for written testimonials, or to ask to talk to previous clients about their experience.

5. Ask if they’re trained

No less relevant, is the coaching knowledge and practice a Coach has attained. A professional Coach will have undergone extensive training and accreditation, including key theoretical perspectives and considerable practice, gained under supervision by experienced coaching professionals. Ask about their training.

6. Ask about their Continued Professional Development

A competent Coach will be working on their own development, for example, by being coached themselves. Professional Coaches also receive regular Coaching Supervision as part of their ongoing professional development. An opportunity to explore and improve one’s coaching practice, Coaching Supervision is considered in the coaching industry as essential to Quality Assurance. Ask about their Continued Professional Development.

7. Ask yourself: How comfortable do you feel?

Probably the most important thing to ask yourself in your quest for the right Executive Coach is how comfortable you feel with the person. Do you feel listened to? Is there an increasing sense of clarity and inspiration to achieve your goals? These are some of the clues that this person will help you work smarter and create the changes you want!

About

Ramona Metcalfe is an award-winning Executive Coach who helps non-profits achieve better outcomes. To find out more about working with Ramona, go to http://www.ramonametcalfe.com