The field of coaching is a rapidly growing area. But coaching is still a relatively new industry so not everyone is as clear about what coaching really is.
More people are familiar with models of training. Typically, there’s a specified area of expertise taught to you or members of your company. This training could take various formats and can cover topics that range from knowledge to skillsets to behavioral and mindset. There is usually an agreed upon and specified topic area received.
Coaching is actually not about imparting knowledge.
In these formats it is most powerful for a person, with the help of the coach, to reflect on areas that they would like to address. The coach approach uses techniques like questioning to connect inner purpose and passion with outer goals and strategies to bring about extraordinary and sustained results. Because the approach is more customized and the applications can be discussed and refined it can lead to not only a more sustained change but the understanding of how to apply that approach to other situations.
There’s no requirement that a coach be certified but many look for coaches who have gone through an International Coaching Federation (ICF) Accredited Coach Training Program like Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching (iPEC), which I attended. Coaches are usually taught skills that can broadly be applied to any type of person and subject area but most coaches specialize within their programs, e.g. Corporate and Executive Coaching, and then further define their niche or area of expertise.
Many coaches use a combination of coaching and training as they have expertise in subject matter areas that would be helpful. Because of that it’s important to understand what the model of working is for any “coach” before hiring for you or your organization.
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