The Coaching Banalization - Part IV - For those who want to hire a Coach.

Three weeks ago we started a discussion about the coaching banalization caused by a flood of poorly prepared professionals and irresponsible schools that make people unfit to practice. After that, we define the different terms and concepts related to the development of people. Last week we discussed some thoughts about who is or wants to be a coach. In this final post on this subject, I would like to bring some factors to those of you who  want to hire a coach:

Coach is not a psychologist: Psychologists can take training and become coaches, but the work of a coach is very different from a psychologist. The coach is a professional prepared to help you meet a specific goal. He does not do therapy, is not able to help you treat depression or solve your inner conflicts. If you do not know which problem you have, you likely need a psychologist and not a coach. Therapy sessions are constructive for personal development, everyone should experience this treatment, but do not confuse this work with a coach. Know precisely the area you want to develop first, then decide what type of professional to hire.

Do not be deceived by advertisings: Do not be impressed by photos, beautiful posters, website or testimonials in the profile. Look for qualified professionals, trained in respected and consolidated institutes. Try to talk to actual clients who have finished the program or are in the process. Thus, you can understand how the person works and what expectations you may have.

Know the work structure before hiring: Each professional has a structure of work, a base process that he/she uses to develop their activity. It is no different with the coach. You should know which references the professional you want is working, what type of structures he uses, the training line, and how he/she relate to his/her clients. This analysis will help you to see if the coach you are analyzing can serve you assertively and effectively.

Respect the development deadlines: We often want aspirin solutions that bring quick and direct results. With human beings, things do not work that way. Do not expect that you will hire the coach today and tomorrow will already have effects. It takes a process of maturation, development, and growth that will lead you to the desired goals. Therefore, respect the proposed deadlines, run the activities, and be suspicious of miracle professionals who promise quick and effortless results before even knowing you deeply. If you do not align your expectations, you will only find frustration and loss.

I hope I have helped you with this choice. I wish you the success you are expecting! Find the right professional, and this partnership will undoubtedly generate appropriate results!

Thank you for reading this small series. I hope it could help you improve your vision about coaching programs. If you are a coach or are planning to be, work hard and do your best to increase this wonderful profession. If you are looking for a coach, avoid the wrong professionals and seek to find the best option for your life developing.