How to Select a Business Coach

Written by admin on Friday, February 20th, 2009

This is the general suggested guidelines the government recommends entrepreneurs use for selecting a business coach some of them are fairly obvious, however make a lot of sense to follow.

“Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.”
– Elmer Letterman

Selecting the right coach is a subjective decision by the executive. The level of motivation in the executive is a major factor in a successful coaching experience. It is important that the executive:

* Indicate a desire for coaching,
* Articulate desired professional and personal outcomes, and Have the support of the executive’s supervisor

In addition, each coach interviewed must also determine whether or not there is a good fit with the executive. The relationship must be a collaborative partnership.

The FCG only refers highly qualified coaches. The following are items to consider when interviewing and selecting a coach in order to determine if there is a good “fit.” Before sending coach referrals for your consideration, an FCG Executive Consultant will try to assess some of these items by having an interview with you, the executive.

* The coach’s typical clients and developmental issues - Has the coach worked with situations similar to mine?
* General technique or approach to coaching - Am I willing to work within these techniques or approaches? Do I prefer to work face-to-face, by phone, or Email? How flexible am I on the “meeting” format?
* Experience coaching Federal managers - Has the coach worked with Federal managers so that he/she is familiar with the dynamics unique to Federal organizations or my organization in particular?
* Business/organizational knowledge - Does the coach understand the business/organizational issues related to my situation?
* Values – sensitivity to confidentiality, ethics, and freedom from gender and culture bias - Am I comfortable that the coach can work for my best interest?
* Interpersonal skills – listening, straightforwardness, rapport, trust, warmth, compassion, humor - Is the coach someone I can trust? Does the coach listen to understand?
* Assessment skills and awareness of instruments applicable to your situation - What other information will the coach use to assist me?
* Flexibility and ability to work effectively with a broad range of executives - My issues involve relationships with other executives; can the coach work with me effectively, and help me understand how to work effectively with them?
* Ability to plan, conceptualize, implement and manage a coaching relationship over time - How will the coach keep me accountable for results and assure that I keep making progress?
* Demonstrated knowledge of learning theories and the dynamics of change - Does the coach understand the personality and temperament issues related to my situation or organization?
* Credibility and authenticity - Can I trust this coach to be honest with me?
Political Savvy - Is the coach savvy enough to understand the politics of my situation?

Not all the above will be revealed through words during an interview with the coach. Some are part of the “chemistry” that we may or may not feel when we meet the coach, and it may take at least one coaching session to decide.

Tags: business coaching - executive coaching - select business coach - selecting a business coach