What is Coaching?
The International Coach Federation (ICF) defines coaching as partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential. Coaches honor the client as the expert in his or her life and work, and believe every client is creative, resourceful and whole. Standing on this foundation, the coach's responsibility is to:
- Discover, clarify, and align with what the client wants to achieve
- Encourage client self-discovery
- Elicit client-generated solutions and strategies
- Hold the client responsible and accountable
This process helps clients dramatically improve their outlook on work and life, while improving their leadership skills and unlocking their potential.
Is an executive coach right for you?
It is very rare for an executive to reach the heights of organizational life all alone. Almost every high-performing executive has had a mentor, a confidant or a coach to challenge them, help them ease past inevitable obstacles, act as a sounding board and be an impartial collaborator in decision-making. People who wish to grow in any endeavor seek the wisdom, perspective and guidance of an accomplished coach. When deciding whether or not to engage an executive coach you should ask yourself the following questions:
- Do I have the desire to learn and grow?
- Am I highly motivated to change?
- Am I open to feedback and willing to create positive change?
How to choose an executive coach:
The relationship between coach and client is highly collaborative. Therefore, it's critical to choose a coach who is right for you. In selecting a coach you will want to ask the following questions:
- Do I feel comfortable with this individual?
- What is their process and approach to coaching?
- Where did they train to become a coach?
- Does their training and experience apply to my needs and background?