Competencies are the skills identified as critical to the profession. The International Coach Federation defines and measures 11 Core Competencies for coaches. 
About Coaching Competency:
- Coaching requires a set of learned skills.
- Coach training both teaches the competencies and supports application of the skills.
- Coach-specific training builds on previous education and experience with a focus on information applied to coaching.
- Hands-on learning, discussion, research, and coaching with feedback develops competencies for coaching.
Competency is Important Because:
- Coaches provide a service based on competency.
- Without competence through training and experience, the possibility of harm is increased.
- In an uncontrolled profession, the recognition of applicable competencies and the consistent focus of professionals to enhance these skills serve both the profession and clients.
Considerations:
- As a growing profession, coaching is moving toward either self-regulation through the ICF or government regulation. Currently it is increasingly seen as self-regulating. This means the core competencies may be a future requirement if ICF membership is seen as the baseline for being a coach.
- If offering services as a professional coach, a lack of competency or training may increase liability.
- Competency requires training and practice to develop and maintain.
Application:
- The ICF defines and promotes eleven core competencies.
- Clients ask about certification to ensure competence.
- Quality service makes good business sense and benefits clients; competency is a basic requirement for quality.
Learning and developing the coaching competencies supports an effective coaching engagement.
