This archive report was first published on 25 June 2020.
Are you considering hiring a life coach, but unsure what to expect? You're not alone. With the rise of self-proclaimed life coaches, it's essential to understand what a life coach does and whether they can genuinely help you achieve your goals.
Published on June 25, 2020, a question from a concerned reader sparked this inquiry: 'One of my friends has begun referring to himself as a life coach, and has even been offering his services for sale. I have known him for a long time, and I am now wondering what it really means to be a life coach and what skills are required to become one.'
At its core, a life coach is a professional who helps individuals achieve their personal or professional objectives by providing guidance, support, and accountability. However, the coaching profession has been criticized for lacking formal qualifications and being open to anyone who claims to be a coach.
While some people may view the title 'life coach' as a mere self-declaration, reputable coaching institutions, such as the Academy of Executive Coaching and International Coach Federation, accredit coaches who have undergone formal training and acquired the necessary qualifications.
So, can life coaches genuinely help you achieve your goals? The answer is yes. Coaching can be particularly useful in helping individuals become more self-aware and take actions that enable them to meet their personal or professional objectives. Many successful executives and business people attribute their accomplishments to the value that coaches have introduced in their lives.
Before hiring a life coach, it's essential to verify their credentials and suitability for the role. Ask questions like: Has your friend been formally trained to coach? Has he acquired the applicable qualifications? By doing your due diligence, you can ensure that you're working with a qualified and experienced coach who can help you achieve your goals.
— Fred Gituku is a Human Resources Practitioner.
