Julia McVey is a prolific coach, trainer, mentor and mother of three teenagers, she has a refreshing perspective on how to balance a busy lifestyle and is famous for not accepting the glass ceiling!
Firstly, it is important to stress that coaching is not counselling, nor is it therapy. Coaching is about getting results. The results you want to achieve will be one of the key drivers in the selection of a coach. There are many coaches out there and they all have different core strengths and it is certainly not the case that one size fits all. Ask yourself this, if you wanted to decorate your home, would you hire a plumber?
So how do you start the process of choosing a coach? As always start at the beginning and establish what you want to achieve. If it is weight loss, look for a coach with a proven track record in this area. Don't be afraid to ask to see testimonials from previous clients.
The next things to check out are credentials. Has the coach been trained by a reputable training organisation? All of this can be checked on-line. Also, look at the professional associations of the coach and ask to see their professional standards or code of ethics. Every reputable coach will work to this. Relevant insurance cover for third party liability is a must for a coach and many coaches will offer a money back guarantee if you are not completely satisfied with the service.
Take time to speak to the coach to ensure that there is a rapport between you and the coach. Many coaches will offer a free trial coaching session which will allow you to understand the coaching style on offer. Don’t forget coaching is an investment in you and if you find the right coach, you will achieve great things.