Everything you need to know about executive coaching

Leadership

Everything you need to know about executive coaching

Most high-ranking officials at some point in their career might consider hiring an executive coach. This could be because of several reasons. However, most people are not exactly familiar with the concept of executive coaching, but it has been prominently in the industry for more than two decades. In simple terms, executive coaching is a method in which a professional coach works with top-ranking executives to assist them in achieving single or multiple goals. These can comprise aims such as:

  • Rediscovering their potential as an executive
  • Clearing any recent roadblocks that have been affecting their career
  • Improving relationships and communication at work
  • Developing innovative ideas and goals
  • Maintaining work-life balance

Executive coaches are not therapists or advisors; however, they come from the background of mentioned disciplines. Their work primarily revolves around asking meaningful and logical questions to the concerned client. Such questions asked by the coach can help the executive to reflect and resolve their problems. To develop self-awareness in the client, executive coaching is implemented by using tools such as behavioral reviewing and in-depth interviews. Post this process, the coach provides feedback and design specific types of targets. The dialogue shared between the employee and coach is unquestionably confidential, so there is nothing to be anxious about.

Initially, executive coaching was recommended to professionals who were facing a terrible phase in their career. But currently, such type of management technique is used as a way to exploit the potential of a high-ranking executive. So, most large businesses are more than willing to invest in it. Individuals can hire their own coaches, or the human resources can suggest a coach to a professional who is soon going to be promoted to an executive position. The coaching will help the newly appointed executive to understand their role and expectations in a better manner. So, they will be well-prepared to manage responsibilities at a macro level. However, even today, executive coaches are used for resolving conflicts in the workplace.

There are some cases in which you should avoid seeking the services of an executive coach. For instance, if you are looking for business or legal advice or counseling for extremely personal issues, then an executive coach cannot help you as their job is merely restricted towards improving your performance at work. Likewise, if you sense that your manager or senior can mentor you better, then you can seek their guidance. Also, top management levels can differ from organization to organization. So, in some cases, your position might not be eligible for executive coaching.

Popular executive coaching certification programs
If you are planning to be a professional coach, then you can enroll in some of these popular programs for acquiring executive coaching certification.

  • Columbia Coaching Certification Program
  • Berkeley Executive Coaching Certificate Program
  • ICF Approved Coach Specific Training Hours
  • iPEC Executive Coaching Certification Program
  • ICF Accredited Coach Training Program
  • NLP Leadership Coach Certification
  • Harvard Leadership Coaching Strategies
  • IOD Executive Coaching Certification Program

These can be beneficial for younger individuals who need a specific direction and credibility to start their own business. The executive coaching certifications mentioned above differ in terms of content, fees, and duration. So, before you pick one, ensure that you research about all the essential features.

Executive coaching certifications can also be taken up by management seniors, managers, HR executives, consultants, and development and learning experts. For instance, a manager can be recommended to take up such courses so that they can internally head coaching sessions for newly promoted individuals. For people who are already in the field of coaching or consultancy, these certifications can expand their knowledge base.

It has to be noted that executive coaching doesn’t require any formal certifications. However, today many aspirants prefer to complete certifications that are accredited by the reputed educational bodies or federations.

Choosing the best executive coaches
Getting an executive coach on board means spending a considerable amount of money. Therefore, you need to be careful and only select a professional who could get you some actual results. Start by analyzing the most important indicator, which is their experience. On the other hand, if the potential coach has limited expertise, then check if they possess an executive coaching certification. Also, look at the kind of clients they have worked with so far and if they serve any specialized coaching. This is because there are diverse programs related to business relations, work performance, life, behavioral, development, career transition, etc. So, pick the one that fits your or the employees’ requirements the best.

When it comes to the costs, executive coaches on an average can charge up to $200 to $500 per hour. The value mainly depends on the duration of the course, type of session, and the level of expertise that is being provided. So, a senior coach with extensive experience might bill you a higher cost than a younger coach with limited experience.