The International Coach Federation (ICF) defines coaching as “partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential. The coaching process helps clients both define and achieve major goal areas, both professional and personal, faster, and with more ease than would be possible otherwise.” That’s a lot of words and may not answer your question.
There’s No One Definition of Coaching
It isn’t always easy to define coaching because it at its core, it is a relationship with a process that leads to an outcome. It should always have a purpose according to Gallup Management. At a very basic level, a coach helps a person reach their goals and potential by helping them understand who they are and where they want to go. The coaching process provides support to clients on a path to their goal and empowers them to get there. A coach doesn’t take or direct them to where they want to go. A coach is along for the ride to help and guide each client on his or her journey.
What Should a Coach Do?
You and your coach need to first define your goal. Then they should be the person in your life who invests and interacts with you or your team to:
- Stimulate & facilitate growth
- Motivate everyone to action
- Aid in development
- Drive increased performance
Coaching is first and foremost a relationship. It should be based in mutual respect and trust. If you’re looking at a working with a life or business coach, I’d like to speak with you. My decades of experience, ICF certification and countless satisfied clients prove I do what a coach should be doing. You can be assured that I treat every person and business differently as I understand that no two situations are alike. If you’re interested in an initial conversation with me, please fill out my contact form and I’ll contact you.
