Posted on September 3rd, 2022

Covid-19 has reshaped the world as we know it, so it’s no surprise that many are struggling with the emotional, social or economic consequences of the crisis. Yet it can also be an opportunity to reassess your assumptions and find new ways to navigate a changing world. Professional coaching can help you manage your current situation, develop resilience and plot your future.

What is coaching and how can you benefit from it?

The International Coaching Federation (ICF) defines coaching as “partnering in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires clients to maximise their professional and personal potential”. By experiencing coaching, you set out on a path to greater personal and professional fulfillment.

A coach is an empathetic, supportive partner who provides direction to help you create personal growth. Your coach collaboratively works with you to define your goals, establish a framework for success, and ultimately help you achieve your objectives.

Finding the right coach for you

“Choosing the right coach is really important,” says Linda McLoughlin, MCC, master coach and ICF Professional Coaches Global Board Director. ” Choose a coach with the right niche and experience to match your needs. And no matter if you look for a life, career, team or organisational coach, check their education and credentials”.

“ICF professional coaches represent the highest standards of professional coaching. They have completed vetted coaching education, and they abide by the ICF Code of Ethics that pledges professional conduct and offers confidentiality and protection to clients. They also accept our Ethical Conduct Review Process and align with the ICF core values which are Professionalism, collaboration, humanity and equity”, according ICF CEO Magdalena Nowicka Mook. “Many are ICF Credential-holders — a self-regulating group of elite coaches who complete rigorous education and practice requirements and who provide accountability to clients and the coaching profession”.

McLoughlin also advises requesting client references and discussing fee, terms, confidentiality and cancellation policies. Finally, get a coaching agreement.

ICF and other professional bodies offer web directories you can use to find an approved coach.

Can anyone become a coach?

“The word ‘coach’ has many meanings and there is still much confusion in the market”, explain ICF Belgium current Chapter President Gaëtane Lenain, PCC and future chapter president, Pascale Pérard, PCC. Since coaching is not a recognised profession in Belgium, Lenain and Perard think it is good that the media and government have recently taken actions to raise awareness and protect clients.

“Although the title of coach is not protected, the profession itself is regulated by neutral bodies like ICF that are independent of coach training centres. Their certifications guarantee the quality and professionalism of the coach who obtains them. They are not within reach of newcomers and require work and discipline to obtain.”

ICF certified coaches must undergo continuous education to maintain their credentials — just like doctors, notaries and lawyers — to ensure global quality control of ICF certified coaching.

Source: ICF