Become a coach
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.
For many, coaching is a life-changing experience that dramatically improves their outlook on work and life while improving leadership skills. Coaching helps people tap into their potential, unlocking sources of creativity and productivity.
Individuals who partner with coaches have reported several benefits, including improved:
2009 ICF Global Coaching Client Study
1. Ask Questions
At this time, coaching is not regulated by any country or state. However, if you are serious about becoming a professional coach, your first step needs to be obtaining coach-specific training.
Professional coaches say the No. 1 obstacle to the coaching industry is untrained individuals who call themselves coaches (2012 ICF Global Coaching Study). Getting training to become a coach will give you credibility in the industry and help you build your professional network.
Before you invest in training to be a coach, ask yourself the following questions:
2. Get Coach Training
The International Coach Federation accredits programs that deliver coach training. We do not offer coach training.
Coach training that is approved by ICF has gone through a rigorous review process and demonstrated that its curriculum aligns with the ICF definition of coaching, Core Competencies and Code of Ethics. By choosing ICF-approved coach training, you can be confident that you are getting high-quality training.
ICF-approved coach training will also help you meet the requirements for ICF Membership and Credentialing.
To find an ICF-approved or -accredited coach training program, use ICF’s Training Program Search Service.