Home Professional coaching The coach community How to become a coach: The ultimate 9-step guide How to become a coach: The ultimate 9-step guide CoachHub · 1 December 2021 · 7 min read With total global revenue surpassing $2.8 billion in 2019, the coaching industry is booming. The International Coaching Federation (ICF) estimated that there were approximately 71,000 coach practitioners in 2019, a 33% increase since 2015. Our own research in 2021 estimates that there are as many as 120,000 people worldwide who use the term coach to describe themselves and earn all or a significant portion of their income from coaching (Passmore, 2021). Although the coaching industry was affected by COVID-19, ICF survey respondents are “very confident” that the coaching industry will emerge stronger after the pandemic. Our own research suggests that the global pandemic acted as a pivot point. While there had been a growing trend towards digital coaching, the pandemic accelerated this trend, with nearly 90% of coaches now expecting to be coaching online (Passmore, 2021). These coaches have recognised the benefits both for themselves and also their clients in terms of reduced travel time, flexibility and the ability to provide a more cost effective solution (Passmore, 2021). Content Understand what coaching is—and what it is not Do you want to join the coaching industry? Explore our ultimate 9-step guide to becoming a coach. Step 1: Understand what coaching is—and what it is not Although there are similarities among coaching, mentoring, consulting, and psychotherapy (i.e. therapy, counseling), there are also very distinct differences. The International Coaching Federation (ICF) defines coaching as “partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximise their personal and professional potential”. At CoachHub we have our own definition, based on a systemic review of definitions used across the industry over the past twenty years. Given that coaching is about working with the whole person, coaches must be comfortable working not only with behaviours and skill, but also exploring thoughts and feelings. However coaches also need to recognise when an issue goes beyond the scope of coaching, such as in mental health. At CoachHub we are clear about the lines between coaching and therapy. With our own team of psychologists, we have produced guidance on what to look for, as well as when and how to refer to one of the other helping professions. Step 2: Reflect on why you want to become a coach Before you research training programmes and credentialing bodies, take a second to reflect on why you want to become a coach. Studies show that coaching can increase employee confidence, goal attainment, and psychological well-being, among other benefits. And on the business side, organisations can experience improved retention, employee engagement, and increased revenue. Why are you interested in becoming a coach? When you define your ‘why,’ you make your path forward more intentional. Step 3: Consider the type of coaching you want to provide When you look at the coaching industry, there are a wide variety of coaches. This is largely the result of different methodologies, frameworks, and mindsets. Before you make a choice of one model over another, we would suggest you look for programmes that equip you in multiple models. In this way you are best equipped to adapt and flex to meet your clients needs, rather than focus them into the single solution or model from your training. Before you invest in training, or enroll in a coaching certification programme, consider the type of coach you want to be. You may also want to reflect on the people you prefer to work with, the niche you want to serve, for example a business segment or sub-market, such as marketing teams in legal firms. Why digital coaching is the key to your company’s growth strategy Download the white paper Step 4: Decide if you want to pursue training, additional education, or certification In an unregulated industry like coaching, certifications might not be seen as essential. There are some people who believe you can be a successful coach without a certification. But the market is changing. More companies and clients are expecting their coaches to have a certification. Of course in all markets there are certifications and certificates. The best options are courses which are accredited by either main global coaching bodies, EMCC Global or ICF. These will help you ensure your course maps to the requirements of these bodies, making your own accreditation easier. It’s also worth thinking about the reputation of the training provider. There is a vast difference between high end programmes, such as a global business school with a faculty of thought leaders, and a small provider operating in a single city with 2 or 3 trainers who train coaching skills alongside a host of other activities. Step 5: Compare different credentialing bodies A coaching certification can help distinguish top coaches from less-qualified practitioners. If you choose to pursue coaching certification, and select a programme that’s accredited by a credentialing body that essentially approves the training programme. At CoachHub we have programmes accredited by the three largest coaching organisations: International Coaching Federation (ICF), European Mentoring & Coaching Council (EMCC), and Association for Coaching (AC), although there are hundreds of coaching bodies worldwide. Step 6: Evaluate various coaching and certification programmes Individual training programmes can be accredited by the above credentialing bodies. For instance, to find ICF-accredited programmes, you can use ICF’s Training Programme Search Service (TPSS), a free directory. When a programme is accredited by a major credentialing body, it means the programme’s curriculum has been rigorously reviewed to ensure that it aligns with the credentialing body’s definition of coaching, core competencies, and ethics. When you compare coaching programs, here are a few questions to consider. What type of programme do you prefer? Within ICF, there are two options: ACSTH and the Accredited Coach Training Programmes (ACTP). These programmes are mapped to the ICF competencies. The EMCC programmes are the same. Typically ICF programmes are more widely recognised in the Americas and the EMCC more widely recognised in Europe, reflecting the size of membership of both bodies in their respective continental homes. What delivery method do you prefer? How do you learn best? Do you enjoy virtual training or do you benefit from in-person learning? Use these preferences to inform your programme choice. Do you want to pursue a coaching specialty? You do not need to choose a niche immediately, but as a second step in your coach development, after securing accreditation it may be helpful to secure further training in your preferred area. However, again be careful about what is promised. Many providers offer training in personal models, so ask about the research evidence underpinning the model before you sign up. Step 7: Earn hours toward your coaching credential and pass an assessment No matter the credentialing body you associate with, when you apply for credentials, you’ll be required to demonstrate a set number of hours of coaching experience. ICF’s first credentialing path, Associate Certified Coach (ACC), requires applicants “…to have completed at least 60 hours of coach-specific training, a minimum of 100 hours of client coaching experience, [and] 10 hours of mentor coaching over a minimum of three months.” In addition to accruing coaching hours, you will also need to pass a knowledge assessment that tests your understanding of coaching, the core competencies of the programme, and your knowledge of the credentialing body’s code of ethics. Top 5% Business coaches Support your workforce with our seasoned business coaches. Discover CoachHub Step 8: Discover and articulate your unique approach to coaching If you are offering services to clients they will want to understand more about your approach. You will need to articulate your approach to coaching to differentiate yourself in the industry. Prospective coachees need to understand the value you provide your expertise and how your work is informed by science or evidence. Step 9: Offer coaching independently and/or join a platform like CoachHub Lastly, before you launch your coaching services, decide whether you want to promote your coaching independently and/or apply to join a platform like CoachHub. CoachHub coaches can self-select hours, work remotely from anywhere, and leverage CoachHub’s software. To become a CoachHub coach, applicants must possess a certification from a leading association, more than six years of managerial experience, and at least 500 coaching hours. Of course many coaches choose to do both, to have some private work, while also benefiting from working for a platform like CoachHub. As we emerge from the pandemic, the coaching industry will continue to grow. Given the rapid rate of technological change and the need for remote training, IBISWorld predicts that many companies will use business coaching and training offered by the industry. If you’re interested in becoming a coach, first understand what coaching is, what it isn’t, and why you want to become a coach. Then, if it makes sense, pursue a credentialing path. The industry could benefit from your industry experience and skillset! Share Share Discover our categories DEI Employee Experience and Well-being Organizational Transformation Performance and Talent Management Professional coaching Read more about:Professional coaching Benefits and ROI Defining Metrics and KPIs to Measure the Effectiveness of Coaching Harnessing soft skills How Effective Workplace Communication Increases Business Value How to Deal With Difficult Employees and Their Disruptive Behavior Building Rapport: 8 Tips For Developing Strong Relationships At Work How To Develop a Business Acumen That Puts You Ahead of Your Peers Proactive vs Reactive: Which Management Style Is Best? Innovating with digital Is It Time To Embrace the Technology Transformation of Coaching? The ultimate guide for coaches and companies What is virtual coaching and how does it work? A New Era for Digital Coaching Accelerating innovation in digital coaching Self awareness & introspection Unlocking the Power of the Emotion Wheel: A Guide to Self-Awareness How to Use the Law of Attraction to Achieve Your Goals From Passive to Powerful: The Role of Self-Advocacy in Achieving Your Goals Self-Serving Bias: Examining its Effects on Workplace Dynamics Self-Discovery Through Mindfulness: A Journey of Inner Exploration The coach community How to become a coach: The ultimate 9-step guide How to find the perfect coach: A proven 8-step guide, backed by 20 years of research Elisabetta Galli joins CoachHub’s Advisory Board Understanding coaching Breaking Down the Difference Between Coaching and Mentoring Why You Need Business Coaching Systemic Coaching: What Is It and How Does It Differ From Other Forms? Coaching and Training: Are They The Same Thing? What is Coaching? Everything You Need to Know in 2023! Last Articles Fostering a Culture of Continuous Improvement: Coaching for Lean Management Personalising your Coaching Programme: How to Drive Impact with CoachHub’s Coaching Framework The Link Between Employee Experience and Performance: A Coaching Perspective Client success story TDK Electronics takes development to another level with CoachHub Learn how What to read next By CoachHub 30 August 2024 Fostering a Culture of Continuous Improvement: Coaching for Lean Management Find Out More By CoachHub 6 August 2024 Personalising your Coaching Programme: How to Drive Impact with CoachHub’s Coaching Framework Find Out More By CoachHub 30 May 2024 The Link Between Employee Experience and Performance: A Coaching Perspective Find Out More Want to learn how CoachHub can work for your business? Call us on +44 (0) 20 3608 3083 email us (mail@coachhub.com) or contact us below for a demo. Request demo