What do I look for when choosing an Executive Coach?

There are many Executive Coaches to choose from but there are far fewer really good ones, so you need to know what you are looking for. Here are the key signs that tell you when you have found a good one.

A good Executive Coach…

… has an innate and intuitive ability to make a meaningful connection with an individual on a one to one basis.

… is objective and thought provoking. They are not afraid to challenge and question where needed, but they are always able to establish a mutually respectful relationship based on trust.

… has the ability to listen, understand and interpret what the client is saying. The secret to successful Coaching is to mine what lies beneath the surface and to bring that to the attention of an individual.

… has the ability to create a safe space for a client, where he/she knows they can speak freely and without fear.

… has worked hard to become one – they have relevant expertise; a professional background and they work with a code of ethics. People can make significant changes as a result of working with a qualified coach and you need to know and feel that your coach has experience and has your best interests at heart.

… has the ability to be flexible in their approach, and be guided by the client’s needs in finding their best way forward. A rigid ‘one size fits all’ approach may suit an inexperienced coach who lacks confidence or ability, but it is rarely going to be the best option for an individual seeking growth and change.
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Finally, a good Executive Coach is one who enables individuals to find their own answers by guiding, supporting and challenging them to discover a deeper understanding of themselves and their situations.