What Is the ICF Three-Month Rule?
Coaches renewing their ICF credential and those applying for a new credential, need to keep the ICF three-month rule for mentor coaching in mind.
The International Coach Federation stipulates that, if you require mentor coaching to renew or apply for a credential, that 10 hours of mentor coaching must take place over a period longer than three months.
The ICF three-month rule for mentor coaching means, in any renewal year, you’ll need to start work with your mentor coach earlier than October 1st at the latest in order to meet the requirement.
If you plan to apply for a new credential and need mentor coaching, the October 1st deadline is not applicable. Since you can apply for a credential at any time in a given year, you do not need to worry about a December 31st deadline.
However, you will still need to give yourself at least a three-month window to complete mentor coaching.
I always have this on my radar for my mentor coaching groups because I want to be sure that all participants have plenty of time to integrate what they are learning and apply the feedback on their coaching. Especially if this is their renewal year.
Of course, the best and most efficient method of participating in mentor coaching is to start early, giving you lots of opportunities to practice what you are learning with your coaching clients.
If you haven’t yet signed up for a mentor coaching program, you’ll want to do some planning on when and how you will fit this in.
I keep a close eye on key dates to help my coach clients meet their credentialing deadlines.
If you haven’t yet registered for a mentor coaching program, now’s the time to get it on your calendar and off your mind!
I have group programs running regularly throughout the year. I’d love to have you join us!