As you pursue your dreams of becoming a professional coach, by now you have discovered just how many options are available. However, in the world of coaching accreditation, the ICF is the “gold standard”. And programs such as Aim Higher can provide you with the certification you need to start your ICF journey. But you might feel unsure or even confused as to the steps you need to take. Here is a simple roadmap for you to follow.

Step #1: Clarity.

Begin by asking yourself why do you want to be a professional coach and who do you envision as your ideal clients? You don’t need to have your niche determined from day 1, but having a good sense of direction you want to take will help you choose the right training. Are you drawn to faith-based coaching, career transitions, leadership, relationships, or personal wellbeing? The world of professional coaching is unlimited, and what you are most passionate about will help you determine the niche you want to specialize in.

Step #2: Choosing an ICF-accredited training program.

ICF accredited training programs, such as Aim Higher, will set you up for success! Completing your required training will give you the confidence to help businesses, non-profits, or individuals make meaning changes. But before you sign up for any program, make sure your training hours will count towards your ICF credentials. Next, pay attention to the program’s philosophy. Some integrate faith and spirituality, others are “secular” and more specialized. Some are highly structures, others are more experiential. Ask yourself, “Will I get the training I need—and deserve!—in this program?

Step #3: Engage in the training.

You will be paying with your hard-earned dollars. Don’t just tick a “completed” box on your to-do list; be an active participant in the pre-work and live training program. Obtaining your professional coach certification isn’t about memorizing scripts; it’s about developing your own, unique coaching presence and style, while aligning your coaching with the ICF Core Competencies.

Step #4: Mentor coaching.

For the ICF ACC-level coaching credentials, you’ll need a minimum of 10 mentoring hours over a minimum of 3 months with a qualified coach, and Aim Higher can provide the requisite mentoring. During mentoring sessions, you’ll receive feedback on the coaching sessions you have conducted. You can celebrate your successes and identify areas of growth and improvement. Be sue to embrace this process; it will be a transformative part of your coaching journey!

Step #5: Logging your coaching hours. Based on the ICF credentials you want to obtain, you’ll need a specific number of paid and pro bono hours with real clients. These coaching sessions are where theory comes alive. Many aspiring coaches worry that they aren’t “ready” to take on clients. However, preparation and experience come by hands-on coaching, reflecting on your sessions, and continuous learning.

Step #6: ICF application and exam.

After completing the required training, mentoring, and client hours, you can submit all documentation to the ICF, pay your exam fee, and then complete the ICF Credentialing Exam. This will test your knowledge and understanding of coaching ethics, core competencies, and coaching scenarios you might face with clients. Note: Udemy offers an excellent practice test.

Throughout this entire process, keep in mind that obtaining your certification, followed by your ICF credentials, is a journey, not a rush to the finish line. Give yourself permission to grow, to make mistakes and learn from them, and ask for help when you feel it is warranted. As well, surround yourself with a supportive learning community, and keep your eyes on the bigger picture: You are building a professional coaching career that gives you the opportunity to facilitate change in people’s lives! And the training you receive will help you develop skills such as active listening and asking thought-provoking questions. Doing so, will help you realize the courage you have, develop your confidence, and maintain a commitment to ethical, transformational coaching!

Your Call to Action!

If an ICF accredited program is the next step in your coaching journey, you can explore how Aim Higher’s ICF accredited program can support you in obtaining the training you need. Go to

Contact Us to schedule a conversation about your goals and to find out the dates of the next coaching training program.