Choosing the Right Coach

You've done some investigating in the field of coaching, and you're intrigued by what you've found: coaches can help you get on track toward what you want, whether it's a balanced life, successful career, or harmonious relationships. You've even visited the International Coach Federation website to view some of the coach profiles listed there. And that's where you come to a screeching halt. There are so many! How in the world are you supposed to find a coach? Does it even matter which one you choose? First of all, the right coach DOES matter. Just as there are certain people with whom you connect and succeed triumphantly, you should have this same thriving connection with a coach. You wouldn't pick just anyone as your business partner, spouse, or friend. You can't just pick anyone off the streets to be your coach. Not that your coach IS your business partner, spouse, or friend, but that same type of connection and rapport is necessary for a successful relationship. Think about it: your coach is the person to whom you entrust you dreams, your goals, even your shortcomings. Not just anyone will do. So, how should you go about finding the coach that is going to help you create your ideal life? First, think about what area(s) in your life in which you would like the assistance of a coach. Is it business/career, financial, life balance, organization, interpersonal relationships? What are your goals? What do you want to accomplish? (Hint: for more detail, see our 'How Amazing is Your Life' quiz.) Next, with all this in mind, look at each coach with the following in mind: