| How to Choose a Coach |
The career field of coaching has become highly popular in recent years, as career counselors and success experts have latched onto the term as a catchall for a variety of services. While there are many reputable career and success coaches out there, unfortunately some individuals have chosen to enter the coaching profession without any training or adequate skills. Like bad apples in an otherwise excellent barrel, some coaches are to be avoided, and they can bring a negative perception to the coaching field as a whole. In one of my recent radio interviews, the host of the show talked about his very negative experience with a "life coach." He said the coach's own life was falling apart, yet he was offering advice to his clients on how to be a success. Apparently, some individuals are starting coaching careers with dreams of large salaries and easy work -- not realizing that coaching takes patience, effort, training, and experience. If you are seeking a coach in order to achieve personal or career goals, make sure you do your research on potential coaches. Fees will vary -- as Richard Bolles says in his famous "Parachute" books, you can expect to pay from $50 to over $150 an hour for an expert's career coaching/counseling services. Research the background of your coach as well as his or her reputation. Has the coach been in business for a while? Is he recognized as a leader in the field? What's the extent of her education and training in the profession? Has he written articles or books? Although client records generally are confidential, does the coach offer any testimonials from past clients? Is there a record of any complaints against him? When you put yourself in the hands of a coaching professional, you have a right to receive competent service that includes, among other things, an assessment of your needs, a plan of action, and follow-up, if desired. By taking the time to choose a competent coach, you'll be on the right track to reaching your goals, and you'll protect yourself from the unscrupulous "expert" who preys on innocent victims. |