How do I become a coach?

I think I get almost as many enquiries about how to become a coach as I do from people who want to have coaching.  These are the key questions and answers:

Do I have to do a training course?

• at this stage in Australia there are no regulations governing the coaching industry, so strictly speaking there are no 'rules' or 'guidelines' setting out how you become a coach.  The coach industry world wide is talking about how this will change (as it has in the financial planning industry) and I think we will see regulation within 10 years here in Australia.

Should I do a training course?

• as there is no regulation you don't have to do a coach training course to become a coach, but I would strongly recommend that you do.  Why? Because it helps to set the standard of coaches at a high level and therefore gives credibility to other coaches and because it will make you a far better coach.

Which course should I do?

• I don't promote any particular coach training course as it does depend on what you are looking for and how much you are prepared to spend (some courses are quite expensive).  I did the course offered by Results Coaching Systems, and I found it helpful for giving me a structure to use with clients and the confidence to leave my job and become a coach.  I have also done an additional course through Coachville which was excellent.
• one thing to consider is whether the course is 'accredited' with one of the international bodies, such as the International Coach Federation, or Coachville.  Check their websites for details.
• Here is a website that is quite helpful in deciding where to train: www.becomeacoach.com

How do I find out about courses?

• To find a course, use a search engine and type in 'life coach training' or something similar.

Should I talk to other coaches?

• I think that's a useful thing to do and I don't mind talking to you about my experiences, so give me a call.

Is there anything else I should consider?

• there are lots of things to consider, but one of the first things is whether you should have some coaching and 'experience' it to see if it is what you think it is and whether you think you are going to enjoy it!  If you'd like a complimentary trial session, please call me.

Useful links/resources:  (please email me if you find other useful links or resources: annabel@livingedge.net )

See above for useful websites.

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