Becoming a Coach

If you are considering a career as a professional coach, the International Coach Federation (ICF) recommends the following four step process:

1. Attend a Coach Training Program:  ICF strongly recommends that you complete an ICF accredited coach training program. Formal training will prepare you for the rewards and challenges of the coaching profession. ICF accredited programs demonstrate their commitment to the highest coaching standards. ICF Global maintains a list of ICF accredited training programs.  We are honored to have our 4 local coaching school as Chapter Sponsors. Each school has a unique philosophy and focus. Raleigh Coaching Academy offers a unique ICF accredited professional coach training certification focused on authentic leadership development for executives, as well as individuals. They also offer continuing education for professional coaches, and mentor coaching for those seeking an ICF credential. For more information, please visit their website at raleighcoaching.com.  Transformative Edge Business Coach Institute “believes in the transformative power of coaching! It's an inside out process: Transforming the way you think, lead, work and live. Our signature Business & Professional program is an open-enrollment accredited ACTP offering, transforming accomplished professionals into extraordinary coaches. We also provide a suite of programs that help organizations in developing internal coaches and creating cultures of coaching."  Assenter coaching offers “The Executive Coach Certification (XCC) Program” which trains coaches specifically called to positively impact the organizational system by the creation of awesome leaders. Gain the confidence, tools and branding you need to soar in the C-suite! Assenter Coaching also offers affordable group mentor coaching for those aspiring to attain their ICF credential.”  NC State’s Leadership Coaching for Organizational Performance (LCOP) is a 132-hour ICF-certified Accredited Coach Training Program (ACTP), delivered in partnership with Heidrick & Struggles, a worldwide leadership advisory firm. Upon completion, you meet the academic requirements to apply for ICF Associate Certified Coach (ACC) and Professional Certified Coach (PCC) certifications.
   
   
2. Join the Global International Coach Federation (ICF Global):  Let ICF Global be a partner on your journey to a successful coaching practice. ICF membership will provide you with networking, continuing education, and leadership opportunities through local chapters, Special Interest Groups and our local, regional, and international events. Connect with coaches from around the world and lend your voice and talents to the future of the profession. By joining ICF, you will realize your full potential as a coach. Join ICF Global.
   
   
3. Join Your Local ICF Chapter (ICF-RAC):  Your local chapter is your primary way to connect with professional coaches in your area. The Raleigh Area Chapter (ICF-RAC ) is a great community of business and personal coaches who support each other in the areas of professional development, business success, and personal growth. Join ICF-RAC.
   
   
4. Hire a Coach:  To truly gain full knowledge and understanding of the coach-client relationship, begin your journey as a client. This step will provide valuable insight into the coaching relationship and prepare you for a meaningful relationship with your clients. Additionally, hiring a coach can help you to determine whether coaching is the right profession for you. To hire a coach, you could start by consulting our membership directory of professional coaches.