Firstly, you need to choose a professional coach. Coaching is a non-regulated profession, which means that anyone can be a coach, even someone who has done a weekend online training or simply read a book about it. A recognised training certification is essential to deliver professional coaching and long-term results – the training provides the principles, framework and recognised methodology that actually works. It is equally important to find someone who is a good personal fit and makes you feel comfortable and safe – a trusted alliance pays off in terms of coaching effectiveness.
Secondly, an inevitable element in undertaking this journey is motivation. Motivation to dedicate time and commit to the required actions, and face the potential discomfort that may come up during the experience of growth. What if you lack motivation? Would it be possible to find or increase motivation with the help of a coach? Certainly, but you still need motivation to take the first step to reach out to a coach and work on your motivation.
Thirdly, it takes time for some of our beliefs and behavioural patterns to change. Research has not identified a specific number of sessions required to bring results, but the optimal number tends to be between four and eight sessions. Coaching is a personalised growth journey and the process should always be designed with the end goal in mind. Also, some of the progress happens between the sessions, as learning is put into practice – taking time is pivotal.
To measure the benefits of coaching, consider reviewing five key aspects: (1) the agreed-upon objectives and desired end goals, (2) the actions taken during the coaching process, (3) the improvements or changes that followed, (4) the impact of these changes, and (5) the lessons learned from the experience. This review can be applied to each coaching journey, and if a professional coach is involved, motivation to commit and dedicate time exists, it is unlikely that improvements or changes don’t follow.
As a result of coaching, improvements have often been observed in the following areas:
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Coaching brings out the best in individuals and teams, and creates a future that’s different from the future that would have arrived by default, without coaching. Numerous studies in the field of coaching confirm its positive effects and outcomes. To experience these benefits, only a few simple prerequisites need to be met.
