Life coaching training is a flourishing vocation, with the industry net worth already hitting the billion-dollar mark. But what really is life coaching and how does it differ from other types of coaching? Professional life coaching is collaborating with customers in a creative and thought-provoking manner to help them augment their professional and personal potential. Many organizations are resorting to such coaching programs, with the majority maintaining or increasing their commitment.
Not All Coaches are Professionals
Not all life coaches are certified professionals. The industry is not regulated and therefore almost anyone can claim to be a life coach and not get sued. There are several life coaches who aren’t trained or know nothing about their responsibilities. Consequentially, the coaches and their quality could vary dramatically. It’s usually recommended to ally with an ICF-certified (International Coach Federation) coach.
Coaching Contributes to the Bottom Line
To most employees, life coaching is an additional benefit. But the more committed organizations view professional coaching as an indirect means to improve sales, employee creativity and engagement, profits and workplace satisfaction. Simply put, companies that spend money on personal trainers, exercise clubs, anti-smoking workshops, etc. reap benefits in the form of fewer sick leaves, decreased turnover, lowered health insurance expenses, etc.
Personal and Professional Benefits
An experienced and certified life coach can help clients attain both personal and professional goals. Some clients expect positive changes through improved relationships, work-life balance, stress reduction, good health, etc. Others may be keener in business or professional goals like job promotions, leadership, a new venture, etc.
Evolving Domain
In the past or during the initial stages, a life coach was hired to help under-performing employees get back on track or correct sub-par performance. The realm has now expanded to assist top producers. According to a survey, most companies hired life coaches to sharpen individual skills of people identified as leaders of the future.
In short, a life coach is not necessarily there to fix things, but assist the client gravitate towards a more compelling and engaging future.
Working Mechanism
Professional coaching could be delivered a few hours per month. Coaching delivery encompasses a wide spectrum. Some coaches like to meet their clients in person. The majority, however, go with telephone sessions as those are much easier and distraction-free. There’s also greater efficiency and better privacy. Most importantly, it’s much easier to connect with the client. Typically, a coaching program should be a couple to four sessions every month.