In today’s world, we’re spoiled with a wealth of tools to help us tap into our personal and professional potential. But let’s be real — without a manual, how do you know which ones to choose, let alone how to use them? This is where coaching comes in!
A good coach doesn’t simply cheer you on from the sidelines. They help you discover what you already have, overcome the obstacles in your way, and create a winning game plan to get what you want.
And here’s a stat to consider: According to the 2022 Global Consumer Awareness Study conducted by the International Coaching Federation (ICF) and PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), 88% of clients who worked with a coach were satisfied with the experience. That’s almost 9 out of 10 people saying, “This works!”
In this post, we’ll cover what coaching is, why you should consider it, how to find a coach for you, and how coaching can deliver success. Ready? Let’s get started!
Discover Your Potential with Transformational Coaching
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What is Coaching?
ICF defines coaching as partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to be their best personal and professional selves. It’s a process that often reveals hidden sources of imagination, productivity, and leadership — things you may not even know you have.
At its heart, coaching is a confidential partnership to help you grow. A good coach creates a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore solutions, push past limitations, and hold yourself accountable. They’re not here to dwell on mistakes or missteps but to amplify your strengths and abilities and help you be your best self.
It’s not about fixing what’s wrong — it’s about making what’s good, better. Whether it’s your skills, performance, or clarity, a coach is your partner for success.
Key Differences Between Coaching, Therapy, Consulting, and Mentorship
Coaching is often lumped in with therapy, consulting, and mentorship, but let’s clear the air — these approaches while overlapping in some ways, are distinct. A coaching relationship often works in tandem with any of these fields. Ready to uncover what makes coaching stand out? Let’s dive in!
Why Do I Need a Coach?
Ever felt like you’re capable of so much more but something’s holding you back? Do you lack direction, motivation, or just a confidence boost? That’s where a coach comes in.
A good coach helps you bridge the gap between where you are now and where you want to be. They give you support, structure, and accountability to overcome obstacles and take real action. With a coach by your side, the path ahead feels clearer and your goals feel achievable.
Later in this guide we’ll go into the benefits of coaching. For now know that coaching is about more than just achieving goals. It’s about unlocking your potential and turning ambition into action.
What Does a Coach Do?
At their core, a coach is your growth partner. Their number one priority is simple: to serve you, the client. A coach holds you accountable, provides proven tools for success, and creates an environment where your potential can flourish.
Here’s how they do it:
- They help you uncover and clarify your goals.
- They align your actions with your aspirations.
- They create a safe space for you to explore and discover yourself.
Think of your coach as both a guide and a mirror — helping you see the path ahead more clearly while reflecting your own strengths and potential back to you.
Benefits of Having a Coach
Sometimes navigating your personal and professional growth feels like trying to assemble furniture without the instructions — confusing and full of mistakes. A coach changes the game, helping you cut through the noise, clarify your goals, and create a plan that works for you.
Discover how coaching can provide clarity, focus, and strategies for success.
Fast Track Career Growth
One of the top reasons clients come to coaching is to turbocharge their careers. Coaches are experts at helping clients uncover opportunities and reach new levels. According to ICF’s 2022 Global Consumer Awareness Study, clients who worked with a coach reported improved communication skills, more self-confidence, increased productivity, more career opportunities and more.
When you work with a certified coach the results are measurable — they’ll help you identify areas to grow and take you to the next level in your career.
Better Work-Life Balance
Coaching isn’t just about career advancement; it’s about balance. In the same study, many respondents came to coaching to achieve better work-life balance — and they did!
Coaches understand the intricate demands on your time and energy. They can help you focus on what really matters, manage competing responsibilities, and create a life where work and personal time coexist peacefully.
Personal Development
While coaching is often associated with career achievements, it’s also a tool for personal growth. A coach can help you define success on your terms, whether that means being a more present family member, achieving health and wellness goals, or having more confidence in social situations.
Your coach will listen deeply, help you clarify your goals, and create a plan to make your vision happen — all while you grow in areas that matter most to you.
Measurable Goal Achievement
As Galileo once said, “Measure what is measurable and make measurable what is not so.” In coaching, measurement is everything. Coaches use proven methods to make sure your goals are specific, achievable, and meaningful.
For example, many coaches use the SMART framework: goals that are Strategic, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Time-bound. With this approach, you can track your progress and adjust, so your actions lead to tangible results.
You and your coach may utilize this or other goal-setting frameworks to measure your progress.
Personal Clarity
Ever feel like you’re chasing a goal only to realize it’s not what you really wanted? Lack of clarity can lead to wasted time, effort, and motivation. A coach helps you cut through the noise, asking thoughtful questions that get you to what really matters to you.
With their guidance, you’ll get clarity and direction so you can focus your energy on goals that are aligned with your values and aspirations.
Overcoming Limiting Beliefs and Getting Unstuck
Limiting beliefs can keep even the most capable people from achieving their full potential. A coach is both a catalyst and a sounding board, helping you identify and challenge the thoughts that hold you back.
These beliefs might be about yourself, your abilities, or the world around you. A coach will listen deeply, help you evaluate whether these beliefs serve you, and guide you to let go of the ones that don’t.
And beyond beliefs, a coach can also help you evaluate your tactics. Are your actions aligned with the bigger picture? If not they’ll work with you to create a strategy that delivers real results — whether you’re going for the C-suite, launching a new business, or just building a healthier habit.
Why Should You Invest in Coaching?
Cue the disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and not financial advice. Now that we’ve got that out of the way, let’s hear what Warren Buffett, one of the all-time great investors, has to say: “The best investment by far is anything that develops yourself and it’s not taxed at all.”
That’s some good… information.
Coaching is one of the purest forms of self-investment you can make. It’s about more than just goals — it’s about how you live and work. Better communication, a healthier work-life balance, more self-confidence, more productivity, and overall better well-being. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
Does that sound good? Let’s get into what it really means to invest in coaching, from time to financial commitment to how to make it work.
How Much Time Will I Invest in a Coaching Relationship?
Coaching is a commitment, but one that’s flexible enough to fit into your life. According to ICF data, most coaching engagements last between 4-6 months with each session being 1-2 hours long. Outside of sessions your coach may suggest activities or reflection exercises to help you get the most out of your journey.
It’s not just about time in the sessions — it’s about how that time changes how you approach your goals.
How Much Does an Engagement With a Coach Cost?
Coaching fees can vary greatly depending on the coach’s experience, credentials, and specialization. Some coaches charge per session; others offer package rates for longer term engagements.
Think of it this way: when you invest in coaching, you’re not just paying for sessions — you’re buying tools and strategies that can have a ripple effect across your whole personal and professional life.
Can My Employer Pay for Professional Coaching?
Some employers already recognize the value of coaching and may include it as part of their professional development program. Check to see if your company offers this benefit — you might not have to pay yourself!
If coaching isn’t explicitly covered, don’t worry. You can make a strong case by showing how your development will benefit the company. Numbers talk, and coaching delivers some amazing results:
When you pitch this to your employer, focus on how coaching can improve your skills, enhance your leadership, and contribute to the overall success of the organization. Highlight the areas you want to improve and show your commitment to growth.
Read three tips for getting your employer to pay for coaching.
Will My Sessions Be Confidential?
Yes. Confidentiality is a fundamental part of the coaching relationship. Even if your employer is paying for the coaching, ICF’s Code of Ethics ensures that your conversations with your coach remain private. So, you can focus on personal growth without worrying about confidentiality.
When to Get a Coach
Deciding to improve your personal and professional life is a big deal and working with a coach can help you make it happen. Is it time to work with a coach?
Ask yourself:
- Are you feeling stuck at a crossroads in your life or career?
- Have you lost motivation for your goals?
- Do you feel like you’re stagnating or slipping backward?
- Is self-doubt holding you back?
If you answered “yes” to any of these, it might be the perfect time to partner with a coach to help you get refocused, realigned, and back on track.
Read on to learn about more reasons to partner with a coach.
Are You Ready for Coaching?
Recognizing the need for change is just the first step — being ready to embrace the coaching process is key. Consider about whether:
- You are open to honest, constructive feedback.
- You’re ready to take action and make meaningful changes.
- You’re willing to own your growth and development.
If these reflect your mindset, you’re likely ready for coaching.
However, if you expect someone else to provide all the answers, aren’t ready to look inward, or are unwilling to invest time and resources, then coaching might not be for you just yet.
The good news? Many people become coaching-ready over time, and when you are, a coach will be ready for you!
Learn more about how to tell if you are ready to find a coach.
Reconnecting With a Coach
You’ve worked with a coach before and stopped. That’s totally fine. Coaching engagements usually last about six months, but life’s challenges and opportunities come and go.
When might you re-engage? If you’re facing a new challenge, navigating change, juggling multiple demands, or wanting to build confidence, reconnecting with a coach could unlock your full potential and open doors to your next opportunity.
The strategies you developed in previous coaching sessions might have served you well, but leveling up often requires new tools, new perspectives, and renewed support. Re-engaging with a coach could be the key to breaking through and reaching new heights.
How to Find a Qualified Coach: Skills to Look For
Choosing a coach is an important decision and the first step in a meaningful journey. The best fit for you is a coach who aligns with your goals and has the skills, experience, and personal connection to help you succeed.
When looking for a coach, ensure they have completed rigorous training, gained substantial coaching experience, and are committed to ethical practices. The clearest proof of these standards is an
ICF credential, the gold standard for coaching excellence. Coaches with this credential have completed quality training, had extensive experience, and adhere to a strict code of ethics.
To find the right coach for your journey, consider your needs. If you’re tackling a specific challenge, look for someone with expertise in that area. For broader personal or professional growth, a general performance coach might be a better fit. Once you’ve narrowed down your options, evaluate their qualifications and look for these essential skills and qualities:
Credentials
In the 2022 ICF Global Consumer Awareness Study, clients of certified coaches were more than twice as satisfied as those working with non-certified coaches. No surprise there!
ICF’s credentialing process ensures that certified coaches have a solid foundation in coaching skills, ethical practice, and ongoing professional development. More on that a little later.
Choosing a certified coach gives you confidence in their ability to coach you.
Chemistry
Qualifications are important, but chemistry is what makes a coaching relationship really work. You need to like your coach and trust they get you and your unique needs and goals.
To find your fit, schedule interviews with potential coaches. ICF recommends meeting with at least three coaches and getting two references from each. During these conversations, ask yourself:
- Do I feel heard and understood?
- Does the coach’s style resonate with me?
- Are they someone I can trust and feel motivated by?
Interview Questions
Prepare questions to help you assess the coach’s experience, expertise, and approach. Here are a few:
- What’s your coaching experience?
- What education or credentials do you have?
- What kind of coaching do you do?
- Can you show me some client results?
- Are you ICF credentialed?
Get Started
Ready to explore the transformative power of coaching? It’s time to find the right coach for you! The ICF Credentialed Coach Finder makes it easy to connect with thousands of highly qualified coaches who meet the ICF gold standard of coaching excellence.
This free directory is your gateway to discovering a coach who aligns with your goals and can help you achieve meaningful growth. Go ahead and get started. The Credentialed Coach Finder will help you begin your journey and find the coach who will empower you to thrive.
Types of Coaches
If there’s an area of your life you want to change, there’s a coach for that. From career breakthroughs to personal wellness, coaching is customized to your goals.
When choosing a coach, consider not only their qualifications but also their expertise in the type of coaching you’re looking for. The right coach can be a game-changer.
Different coaching specializations to consider:
- Career Coaching: Navigate your career, set professional goals, and make progress.
- Leadership Coaching: Develop leadership skills, strategic thinking, and impact as an organizational leader or manager.
- Business Coaching: Support for business owners and entrepreneurs solve problems, achieve goals, and grow their businesses.
- Health Coaching: Create sustainable lifestyle changes, improve physical and mental health, and develop a wellness mindset.
- Financial Coaching: Learn practical tools and strategies to improve financial literacy and well-being, and achieve financial goals.
- Life Coaching: Covers all areas of life — relationships, health, career, and finances — to achieve fulfillment and balance.
While this is not an exhaustive list, coaching goes way beyond these areas. Many coaches, especially ICF-credentialed coaches, specialize in niche areas to meet client needs.
What Type of Coaching Is For Me?
Finding the right coach starts with what you want to achieve. Take time to think about your goals and challenges.
Starting a business or scaling a side hustle? A business coach with results can help you plan and grow.
Working on wellness goals? Whether it’s eating better, sleeping better, or moving more, a health coach might be for you.
Feeling stuck in life? A life coach can take you through a whole life transformation, helping you thrive across multiple areas.
Coaching has long been viewed as a luxury, but in today’s world, it’s a necessity. Having a coach in your corner gives you a competitive edge — someone to help you navigate unknown territory, make good decisions, and achieve goals that seemed impossible.
Whether you’re looking to improve in your career, wellness, finances, or relationships, there’s a coach that can help!
What Is a Credentialed Coach
The term coach gets used a lot these days. With YouTube videos, podcasts, and online programs everywhere, everyone is calling themselves a coach. But how do you separate the true experts from the rest? That’s where credentialing comes in.
Credentialing is the best way to verify a coach’s qualifications and make sure they have the training, experience, and ethical standards to coach you well. In today’s crowded coaching world, hiring a credentialed coach is not just important — it’s essential.
How to Find a Credentialed Coach
ICF has made finding the right coach with the ICF Credentialed Coach Finder easier than ever. The above video shows how to access thousands of coaches with a few mouse clicks.
You'll be able to filter on important items like credential type, coaching themes, coach methods, and rate to find the right fit.
Once you've identified the list of coaches you'd like to reach out to, you can send them a request for proposal (RFP), and the Credentialed Coach Finder will forward your request anonymously. Responses from your selected coaches will be sent to you by the tool as your prospective coaches respond.
The tool is free to use and can help you find your perfect match with a coach who meets the gold standard for credentialing!
Let's Begin
If you’re ready to unlock your new possibilities in your personal or professional life, there’s no better time to take action. Working with an ICF-credentialed coach can help clear obstacles, overcome challenges, and create your path to success.
Take action today! Find a qualified coach with the ICF Credentialed Coach Finder and take the first step toward meeting your goals.