You have the desire to be a professional Coach. You feel you have the skills to help others change their lives for the better. And you may be asking, “Do I really need a professional coach certification to start or grow my business, or become a go-to employee at my company?”

Based on their skills and experience, many people call themselves coaches, but they lack certification as a professional coach.

The reality is that anyone can call themselves a coach. They may even have training in a specific niche, personal or professional. And in the coaching world, there are no government licenses or certifications. However, obtaining a certification from an ICF accredited program conveys to your professional and personal communities that you take your role as a coach seriously.

A professional coach certification from an ICF recognized program such as Aim Higher requires a meaningful investment that pays dividends in the long run. This certification informs your clients that you are not just “giving advice”; you are ready to partner with them in a “collaborative and thought-provoking partnership between a coach and a client, aimed at maximizing the client’s personal and professional potential” as per the ICF.

Becoming a certified professional coach will benefit you with these competencies:

  • Skillsets. An in-depth coaching program such as Aim Higher will provide you with training and mentoring that will challenge you beyond your natural abilities. You will identify blind spots that you may have and develop a “toolkit” to use when working with clients in various settings. Professional coach training will equip you with the skills to structure your coaching sessions, ask powerful questions, help your clients to reach their goals, and learn how to maintain personal and professional boundaries. You’ll also receive real-time feedback on coaching sessions you have with other program participants.
  • Confidence. You may be concerned if you are coaching the correct way. Obtaining a professional coach certification gives you a solid foundation that aligns your skillsets with recognized standards, giving you the confidence to coach individuals in your chosen niche.
  • Marketability. Organizations throughout the world are giving preference to—and some are requiring—individuals who have a professional coach certification. In private practice, a professional coach certification lets your clients know that you are trained and equipped to help them face and overcome their struggles and obstacles, and reach their goals.

Steps to Take

At this point, you are asking, “What steps do I need to take to obtain my professional coach certification?”

The most important step is to select an ICF accredited program. You’ll be assured that you will have the required training hours, engage in mentor coaching, and can the ICF’s required coaching hours needed for your ACC, PCC, or MCC credential. The ICF requires you to submit a recording of a coaching session or sessions, based on the credential you want to obtain. Before doing so, you can submit your coaching session(s) to an ICF accredited mentor for feedback and you can participate in group or one-on-one mentoring supervision. Note: Aim Higher has ICF approved mentors available. After completing the ICF requirements, you can apply for your credential and take ICF’s online exam focused on coaching knowledge and ethics. This requires a commitment on your part that will pay dividends in your personal and professional communities.

Obtaining a professional coaching certification signals to your clients that you offer services to help them achieve the success they are seeking. While many people call themselves coaches, you can confidently state that you are a certified professional coach. And that’s a powerful statement to make!

Your Call to Action!

If you’re ready to move from “I’m interested in coaching” to “I’m ready to become a professionally trained coach”, then Aim Higher will provide you with the education you need. Check the website for more details, including the dates for the next program.