No one likes to waste time, energy and money, right? So here are a few tips to help you navigate the interview process and increase your odds your choice of a coach is the right fit for you!

• Coaching Agreement – the coach and client co-create the professional relationship before coaching sessions begin. This step has two parts – the overall objective of for the duration of the engagement; goals and topics that provide clarity and direction at the beginning of each coaching session.
• Complete the questionnaire and pre-coaching worksheet if requested to do so. This helps the coach determine how you would like to be coached, and what approach to use in the early sessions. “How would you like me to be as your coach?” is a common one.
• Give the relationship time to develop trust and rapport. It’s hard to open up to a stranger, but the coach’s role is to create a setting that is both informal, focused and serious at the same time. It may take 2-3 sessions to develop trust and a comfort level, so be patient!
• Coaching is designed to get results. Think about ways in which you might measure progress and advancement toward your goals, and the steps required to achieve them. Coaching with measurable progress is just another conversation.
• Consider coaching style and approach. While some coaches offer consulting and advice providing services, executive coaching allows for self-discovery and questions that illicit responses designed to discover real issues and problems. More importantly, how to solve problems effectively and permanently.
• Credentials, training and education are important. Don’t hesitate to inquire about training, certifications and hours of coaching experience. International Coaching Federation is a globally recognized provider of ongoing training, ethics and professional development.
• Finally what resources are available to your coach if a problem arises or the coach is not versed in a specific subject or obstacle. Many coaches, me included, have at least one mentor coach available for consultation. Resources abound within the coaching industry for help, and rarely has a coaching issue arisen that’s completely new and unique!

If you’re ready to get going, and open to change and exploring new ideas to solve problems, coaching might be for you! Most coaches offer a fee-free introduction (or two) to get better acquainted and determine compatibility. So, what are you waiting for?