FAQ: Coaching

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Why has coaching become so popular?

Coaching has become popular due to its proven effectiveness, especially in contrast to the frequent failure of traditional training to produce significant behavior change. Coaching focuses on the importance of “growing” people in response to increased pressures and demands of the world and workplace.

What are the differences between coaching, counseling and consulting?

Any candid response will acknowledge that the lines blur. Generally, coaching is a forward-looking process, focused on improved effectiveness and personal/professional development. Counseling focuses on understanding and changing the emotional and psychological roots of behavioral issues. Consulting is an “expert-driven” modality, focused on implementing solutions that solve business problems. Depending on the needs of a particular situation, each form of support has its place and value.

What’s the difference between performance coaching and developmental coaching?

Performance coaching is directed at increasing individual capacity to achieve organizational outcomes and metrics. Developmental coaching seeks to develop the whole person, and is less concerned with reaching specific goals than building lifelong competencies that, of course, subsequently contribute to business success.

Is there research that demonstrates how coaching actually changes behavior in sustainable ways?

Although coaching is a relatively new field, emerging research is documenting a clear causal connection between coaching, changed behaviors and subsequent business results. Meanwhile, anecdotal evidence overwhelmingly supports the effectiveness of professional coaching. Follow the links in the Resources section to access some of this research.

Is coaching regulated?

Coaching is currently not regulated. It’s important to ask tough questions and thoroughly check references and professional credentials before committing to work with someone.

What is the best way to check out a coach’s skill and reputation?

A coach’s effectiveness is based on the ability to establish rapport, challenge your thinking, and provide useful guidance and support. The best indicators of effectiveness come from the coach’s former clients. Read How to Choose a Coach for more suggestions.

What assurance do I have that coaching will work for me?

Aside from the thoughtful selection of your coach, success is highly dependent on your motivation and willingness to engage the process. Successful coaching marries a genuine desire to change and grow with a coach’s ability to provide a balance of challenge and support.

How is coaching individualized for me?

Good coaching is highly tailored to you. Rather than a cookie-cutter program, a skilled coach will partner with you to define specific and observable outcomes to guide and validate your progress. Holding these outcomes in mind, the “curriculum” is then developed to your particular circumstance, and what you want to bring forward. What’s required of you is a commitment to engage in the process with reasonable diligence.

How do I get started?

First, assess your readiness. Then utilize the specific suggestions here to check out several possible coaches, make a selection, and get started.