Seven Questions to ask when Hiring a Life Coach

Who did you train with?

You need to ensure that your coach trained with a reputable training company. There are many coaches promoting their services to potential clients - some of them have received no formal training in coaching at all. I trained with The Coaching Academy. Coaching Academy trained coaches benefit from training with Europe's largest and longest established life coach-training organisation, using top trainers who are all life coaches working at the top of their field.

What did the training involve and how much practical work was involved?

Ideally your life coach should have received over 100 hours of training from their training provider. A large proportion of this should have focused on the skill of practical coaching. Some training providers only ask their trainees to learn about life coaching in theory, without ever having to provide their abilities as a life coach.

Coaching Academy trained coaches practice for at least 39 hours during training and can also participate in more than 25 hours of live life coaching sessions during their training period. In order to graduate from The Coaching Academy, trainees must also pass three comprehensive written assessments.

How long did you train for?

Some people attend a weekend course and claim to be skilled coaches. Obviously there are people who have complimentary skills who become good coaches very quickly. However, a professional life coach should have studied for a minimum of six to twelve months during their training period.

What is life coaching?

Any life coach you interview should be able to define coaching for you. Coaching is not giving advice or telling you what to do, but helping you to find the best solutions that move you closer towards your goals.

How does the life coaching relationship work?

Professional coaches should have a clear method of working - whether they offer face-to-face life coaching, email life coaching or telephone life coaching. You should be able to clearly understand their fees, methods of payment, regularity of sessions and expectations of the life coaching relationship.

How much life coaching experience have you had?

This will differ from coach to coach, but you should expect that your life coach has a minimum of 50 hours of coaching experience. Fees will reflect their level of experience.

Are you insured?

All professional life coaches should carry professional indemnity insurance and liability insurance.

Ask Claire

Do you have a question about coaching or training? Send your questions to me and I will get back to you within two working days.

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