Choosing a Business Coach is a complex process. If you don’t believe this to be true, google ‘Business Coaches’ just to see the variety of coaches available. The greatest challenge is not only to find an exceptional coach, but also to find the one who is right for you.
The Competencies of a Business Coach
Augmenting this decision is the array of competencies on offer. It is usually assumed that the skill and execution of coaching is in place, combined with business experience. Yet analysing competencies delves deeper than this. There is a plethora of competencies to consider. When selecting the business coach, the B.E.A.K.S© model can guide you. This was developed by Dr Elana Siew in her book Competence Refined where she speaks about analysing what is required in each one of these areas:
- Behaviour
- Experience
- Abilities
- Knowledge, and
- Skills
To read more about these 5 areas, click here.
Using this methodology, combined with COMENSA and the ICF model of behavioural standards and core competencies required for coaching (as seen below), you are in a far more educated and considered position to start making your choice:
Choose the Right Coach
Figure 1: The ICF Core Competencies
How to Choose the Right Coach for you
Here is a guideline of how to choose the right coach for you. Ask yourself the following questions:
- Why are you looking for a coach?
- What are you hoping to achieve from the business coaching process?
- Who would be the best person to guide you through this process?
- What is most important to you in selecting a business coach?
- What don’t you want in a coach?
- What will make you implement your coaching process?
- Who do you relate to the best?
When you can answer these, you are ready to start your coaching journey. To do so, click on this link to engage with an exceptional business coach.
If you are unable to answer these then reach out for assistance and contact a professionally qualified Business Coach at SA Business Coaches.