These days everyone seems to be talking about coaching. People seem to have a coach for just about every area of life – career, health, finances – the list goes on.
If you’re wondering what is coaching? Is it just a fad or do I need a coach? I’ve got your questions answered.
Consider this your introduction to coaching.
What is coaching?
Coaching is a conversation between two people aimed at creating clarity and focus, to help the client achieve their goals.
Sessions are held between the client/coachee and the coach and determine:
- The topic or area the client wants to work on
- What the current situation is
- The specific goal they want to achieve; and
- How to make the goal a reality
Who can be a coach?
Coaching is currently an unregulated industry which means anyone can call themselves a coach, so be wary if you’re choosing someone to work with.
You want to consider the person’s experience, including relevant experience they may have outside of being a coach. That said, I’d always recommend choosing someone with a qualification in coaching as there is specific skillset required and you want to ensure you are getting the most out of your session.
What makes a good coach?
They should:
- Have formal qualifications and relevant experience
- Listen and focus on you as the client, not on themselves
- Ask lots of questions that get you focused, inspired and into action
- Be ready to challenge you when need be
- Be encouraging and supportive; and
- Maintain confidentiality – always!
Why would I work with a coach?
Because you are ready and committed to take action and create change in your life.
You may be tackling a particular goal or challenge, be wanting to stay on track and need someone to keep you focused and accountable or you may just be feeling a little lost and need help working out what it is that you actually want.
What’s the structure of working with a coach?
There are typically 4 options:
- A one-off session – generally intended to kick start you into action or to help you make a key decision quickly (e.g. should I take this job I’ve just been offered?)
- Program offering – these usually run as a package and focus on a particular issue or area (e.g. develop a career plan in 6 weeks). These typically include specific activities for you to complete in addition to coaching sessions. Be mindful that some of these packages offer group coaching instead of individual sessions, and they should be priced accordingly.
- Set period – these are often in packages of 3 or 6 sessions and each session can be focused on a different topic if you choose.
- Ongoing – some people work with a coach on a permanent basis e.g. a session once a month for years on end or for 3 months every year. This type of arrangement allows you to keep reassessing your goals and progress, as well as keeping you focused on achieving your outcomes long term.
How much does coaching cost?
Pricing ranges from $100 – $1000 per session.
When thinking about how much you are willing to pay, consider the level of experience of the coach, how important the outcomes are for you as the client, and what you will gain from the experience. For example, if coaching gives you the confidence to ask and get a pay rise, then investing in yourself may pay off very quickly.
Also remember that depending on the type of coach you have, you may be able to claim it as a tax deduction. I recommend seeking confirmation from your accountant.
What commitment do I need to make?
In addition to the cost and time for sessions, you also need to be prepared to do some reflection and possibly some activities outside of your time with your coach.
You should also be emotionally prepared to be challenged and pushed outside of your comfort zone at times.
How long does it take to see results from working with a coach?
Coaching isn’t a golden ticket, but by clarifying what you want to achieve, you’ll start to make changes immediately that bring you closer to your goals.
Got other questions about coaching? If so, add them to the comments below and I’ll do my best to answer them.
If you’d like to know more about working with me, please book a free call or get in touch.