February Blog: 3 Quick Tips to Help You Choose Your Executive Coach

Over the past ten years, executive coaching has continued to grow in popularity. While organizations are discovering the value that comes from giving their executives a sounding board, more and more people are interested in making the transition from employee to executive coach.

Since its inception, El Camino Group has interviewed and employed a number of coaches. So what should you consider when looking for your executive coach?

Without a doubt, the number one factor is experience. Who better to coach executives than someone who’s been in a similar role and/or industry? When choosing an executive coach, consider their background and how this relates to yours. Have they been faced with similar responsibilities and challenges? Do they have experience in upward mobility within your career path? These are just a couple of questions to consider when selecting a potential candidate.

Adaptability, particularly with different personality types, is another factor that sets a coach apart. Clients come from all walks of life and can approach coaching quite differently. Perhaps you’re a client that likes to take the initiative and immediately dive into discussion. In contrast, you may prefer your coach to ask the questions that prompt you to find areas of discussion. Find someone that is able to adapt to your style and needs.

Finally, make sure your coach has a coaching credential from a reputable organization. While a coaching credential is not required to be an executive coach, it does show that a coach has put in the coaching hours and education to provide you with a meaningful, worthwhile experience. The International Coaching Federation (ICF) is the most well-known credentialing organization and provides several resources for you to find and connect with potential coaches in your area. You can visit their website at: http://www.coachfederation.org.

El Camino Group employs a diverse cadre of experienced, credentialed coaches. If you’d like help finding a coach that would be a good fit for you, please contact us! We’d love to help you find your sounding board.

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