In the previous log the Staircase to Success analogy gave a brief description of the coaching relationship. What follows now is a deeper exploration by outlining key considerations for each step and then reviewing how to move forward. 
Coach training accredited by the International Coach Federation is specifically designed to develop knowledge of and skill in the 11 Core Competencies of a coach. This prepares the coach to provide a quality coaching process.
About Coach Training:
- Coaching is currently an uncontrolled industry; training is neither required nor regulated – it is recommended.
- Training provides perspective, tools, and credibility in addition to enhancing the core competencies of a coach.
- All training is not equal; the certification program quality and trainer experience affect learning and skill development.
Training is Important Because:
- As with any career, training enhances quality and professionalism.
- Clients want to know about the skill of the coach and if the coach has training in the core competencies published by the International Coach Federation (ICF).
- “Coaches” without training may unintentionally be unaware of ethics, or even practice mental health without a license.
Considerations for Training:
- Within the coaching industry, there are different definitions of coaching, coaching models, and approaches to coaching.
- The appropriate skill level to enter different coach training programs varies.
- Mental health coaching models may require separate licensing.
- Training may be a requirement in the future.
Application:
- There are over 300 different coach training programs.
- The time and cost currently range from two hours to ten years and from free to over $20,000.
- The quality of training varies widely.
Training for all professionals makes sense and when providing a personal service such as coaching it is essential for the quality of the process.
