Number One

Great coaches understand that confidentiality creates trust, and this trust is the cornerstone of effective coaching.

They know to deliver great outcomes, coaching must be founded in evidence-based research. Not pseudoscience, NLP, gut instinct or some ‘special formula’. Great coaches commit to gaining a recognised education. This education has a solid foundation in science, coaching psychology, psychology and social science.

Number Two

Effective coaches know having unconditional positive regard for you is crucial. It’s the right thing to do. Not because they are paid, but because they know this it’s in your best interest.

Number Three

Skilled coaches know they must be able to coach with you without their own judgments and biases getting in the way. Do you feel judged by the coach you’re working with? Perhaps time to think why?

Number Four

Great coaches Contract. This means continually defining and getting agreement about what happens in your coaching. This means getting your permission to discuss sensitive topics. Contracting covers what you want to explore or who might have access to assessments used. Contracting is about keeping you safe. Great coaches know clear roles and responsibilities during coaching engagements are key to getting results. You should be given a written coaching agreement by your coach. All parties involved commit to and sign this agreement. Everyone must have a clear view of their role and their responsibilities. The coachee (you) the sponsor (if coaching is being paid for by a third party/employer) and the coach.

Number Five

Smart coaches know goals must be meaningful if you are to work towards them. Smart coaches develop great listening skills to understand your needs. They understand how to support you to achieve these goals.

Number Six

Competent coaches practice within the boundaries of their own coaching competence. They do not take on clients who are outside their coaching capability.

Number Seven

Great coaches continually adhere to a professional code of conduct and ethical practice. If clients display signs of mental or physical illnesses they know their professional duty is to refer to a recognised health professional.

Number Eight

Smart coaches look after themselves both physically and mentally. They do this so that they can be their best for you. They show up on time and have reviewed what you worked on in your previous session.

Number Nine

Strategic coaches know that coaching, business and the world is changing rapidly. To remain relevant they continually invest in developing professionally. They are always updating their coaching skills and knowledge.

Number Ten

Dedicated coaches undergo regular coaching supervision with a trained coach supervisor. This ensures you receive high-quality, ethical coaching. Supervision is a sign your coach is serious about delivering quality coaching for you.

How did your coach rate? 

Hopefully a 10?