Hiring a Coach

The International Coach Federation defines coaching as: Partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential.

A professional coaching relationship exists when coaching includes a business agreement or contract that defines the responsibilities of each party. An ICF Professional Coach also agrees to practice the ICF Professional Core Competencies and pledges accountability to the ICF Code of Ethics.

By joining the chapter, the coaches in this directory show a commitment to ongoing professional development. They participate in educational programs that hone their skills and expose them to different approaches - perhaps the one that will work best for you.

Some Reasons People Hire A Professional Coach

• Feel stuck in an unsatisfying career.
• Wish to go into business for themselves.
• Need to develop their leadership presence in a focused and authentic way.
• Want to live a more balanced and fulfilling life.
• Want to take their company to the next level.
• Have some sticky business problems that need solving.
• Need to manage conflict more effectively.
• Wish to improve health and a sense of well-being.
  
  

How Does It Work?

Typically, in each coaching session, you, as the client, choose the focus of conversation, while the coach listens and contributes observations and questions. This interaction creates clarity and helps you move into action. Coaching accelerates your progress by providing greater focus and awareness of choice. Coaching concentrates on where you are now and what you are willing to do -- and who you are willing to be -- to get where you want to be in the future.

A coach challenges you and takes the time to find out what success in life means to you. A coach is your partner in living the life you know you can accomplish, personally and professionally. It can be difficult to reach our fullest potential alone. Athletes and performers understand this. They know they need someone else -- a trained professional -- to help set goals, discover real needs, and work effectively toward ultimate goals of excellence. 

Why Hire A Coach?

Hire a coach if you want better results. If you or your organization is ready to stretch, grow, and discover, you're probably ready to work with a coach.

Are There Different Kinds of Coaches?

Yes. While some coaches are generalists, most work in particular niches, including but not limited to business, leadership, children, executives, organizations, career, wellness, parents or relationships. There is a coach to meet your particular interests.

Isn't This Just Therapy?

No. Coaching is not therapy. Coaches don't work with mental illness, focus on the past, or deal much with dissecting personality. Coaching is about envisioning and creating goals for a better future and working in partnership toward those new possibilities.

How Long Do We Work Together?

Sometimes it is as brief as the time it takes to accomplish a specific goal or project, but more often it is an ongoing relationship of at least three to six months. You'll be amazed at how much progress you'll make along the way.

What Does It Cost?

Cost varies based on area of expertise and experience. Most coaches working with individuals charge $200 to $450 per month for a bi-weekly session (typically a half-hour to an hour). Executive coaches charge more, often running $1,000 to $10,000 per mon

What Should You Look For When Selecting a Coach?

The most important thing to look for when selecting a coach is someone with whom you feel you can easily relate to and create the most powerful partnership with. We recommend that you interview several coaches and ask these questions:

• What is your coaching experience?
• What is your coach specific training?
• Do you hold an ICF Credential?
• What is your coaching specialty or client areas you most often work in?
• What specialized skills or experience do you bring to your coaching?
• What is important for you about coaching your clients?
• How many times we will meet?
• What are some coaching success stories?

Ready to Find a ICF Raleigh-Area Coach Now?

You can find your own coach today by using our Find a Coach service. You can either browse through the entire list of coaches, or use the Advanced Search link to specify qualities that matter to you.