Coaching is a creative relationship where in a coach works with the coached on a one to one basis over an extended period of time.  Coaching is a learning progression that interconnects the developmental needs of the individual with the strategic requirement of the organization. It is a tried, tested and validated creative relationship which delivers astounding results for the professional and personal growth of the coached.

 While hiring a coach, here is what you should keep in mind:

 1)      The success of a coaching relationship depends on the commitment of both the coach and the coached. Make sure coach has sufficient time to give you the required attention.

 2)      There are all kinds of coaches - life coach, spiritual coach, executive coach, relationship coach etc. Make sure your coach has relevant experience in the area of your choice

 3)      Coaching is both a skill and an art. Make sure your coach has the right accreditation. Many institutes offer coach training and certification and the most common one is the accreditation by the International Coach Federation. ICF provided accreditation at three levels – associate coach, professional coach and master coach.

 4)      The best way to check on your coach’s expertise is to do a reference check. Ask your coach to provide you with references.

 5)      Last but not the least; make sure you feel comfortable with the coach. The best to find out if you have the right chemistry is to ask for a free trial session or a discovery session. A number of coaches provide this session free. However, the busy ones might charge you for the same. Remember you can always ask for a 15 minutes conversation if not a full trial session for free.  

Coaching engagement can be a very exciting and insightful journey. Make sure you make yourself so by choosing the right coach!