By: Patty Prosser
Every Leader Needs a Coach – Here’s What to Look for When Selecting One That’s Right for YOU!
Today, having an Executive Coach is pretty common. And, where most people in corporations assume that being given the chance to work with a coach is a positive thing (i.e., the company is making an investment in you!), selecting the “right” Executive Coach is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your professional growth and leadership effectiveness.
There are lots of different types of coaches with lots of different backgrounds and certifications. And, where certifications are important, I believe that the most compelling criterion in selecting a coach that’s right for you is to find one who has a commitment to helping you stretch beyond where you are today and aligns with your professional needs, personal growth style, and leadership aspirations. Someone who can be a “trusted advisor”, can provide an outside perspective, act as a neutral third party, and can help you navigate challenging decisions or situations. Someone who won’t be afraid to tell you the truth, while also deeply believing in you and is committed to your success!
Here are some things to look for when selecting a coach to ensure they are a right fit for you:
- They Understand Your Goals & Challenges
- They have experience coaching leaders at your level (e.g., senior executive, entrepreneur, emerging leader).
- They can help you navigate specific challenges – whether it’s leadership development, strategic decision-making, or executive presence.
- They ask insightful questions that help clarify your vision and goals.
- Their Coaching Style Matches Your Learning Preferences
- Do you prefer a coach who is direct and challenges you, or one who is more facilitative and reflective?
- Are you looking for structured frameworks, assessments, and tools? Or a more fluid, exploratory approach?
- The best fit is someone who can push you in a way that feels constructive, not overwhelming.
- They Have Relevant Experience & Credentials
- A coach with experience in your industry or leadership level can provide more relevant insights.
- Consider their background in corporate leadership, psychology, or organizational development.
- Ask about their coaching methodology and success stories.
- Certifications or a leadership background in top organizations can indicate credibility.
- Their track record and testimonials from similar clients matter.
- They Respect Confidentiality & You Believe You Can Trust Them
- Coaching requires vulnerability – make sure you trust your coach to handle sensitive matters with discretion
- The right coach listens deeply, respects your perspective, and fosters an environment of trust.
- You should feel challenged yet supported, not judged.
- They Hold You Accountable & Drive Results
- A great coach doesn’t just listen – they push you to take action and track progress.
- They keep you accountable for commitments and behavioral changes.
- They help measure success with tangible metrics and feedback mechanisms.
- Their Availability & Logistics Work for You
- Consider factors like session frequency, format (in-person vs. virtual), and time zone compatibility.
- Their schedule should allow for flexibility, but also consistency in coaching sessions without feeling rushed or infrequent.
- They Offer a Fresh, Unbiased Perspective
- They help you see blind spots, challenge assumptions, and encourage innovative thinking.
- They don’t just reinforce what you already know but help expand your leadership capabilities.
- You Have Good Chemistry & Energy
- If the conversation feels forced or uninspiring, they might not be the right fit.
- A strong coaching relationship is based on a natural connection and mutual respect.
- Their Approach Aligns with Your Values & Company Culture
- They should understand your personal values and how they align with your leadership approach.
- If you work in a high-paced corporate environment vs. a mission-driven nonprofit, their methods should fit accordingly.
- You See Growth & Progress Early On
- A good coach should help you gain clarity, confidence, and actionable insights within the first few sessions.
- If you don’t feel challenged or see progress after a reasonable time, they may not be the right fit.
The bottom line – trust your instincts! It’s imperative that a good coach-client relationship be built on mutual respect, understanding, and trust.
Like any new endeavor, working with a coach can be challenging and even a little scary. But if you’re committed and curious, you’ll find your coaching relationship can be a powerful catalyst to becoming the person you most want to be.
If you are interested in learning more or have other leadership development needs, please visit The Center for Leadership Excellence’s website at www.cleindy.com Patty Prosser is Co-Founder and Coaching Practice Leader at The Center for Leadership Excellence. For more information, contact Patty at 317-727-6464 or pprosser@cciindy.com