As the coaching world continues to move towards regulation, coaches are asking exactly that question.
01.08.08
You may remember that we reported in April on the steps the coaching world is taking towards regulation. And this is set to continue.
So, what does that mean for coaches in the industry who are not accredited? Well, Steve Benfield, Principal consultanct of The Beech Consultancy reported in April this year that coaches should consider their own personal development, supervision and accreditation options.
It’s certainly what all coaches here at The Beech Consultancy are committed to. We’ve set ourselves the goal that by March 2009 all our coaches will be accredited with one professional body, be it the Association for Coaching, The European Mentoring and Coaching Council or the International Coaching Federation.
We believe that as the industry moves closer towards regulation, accreditation will be one way of assisting the public and the purchasers of coaching providers to identify effective coaches.
Although accreditation cannot eliminate bad practice, it will certainly minimise the chances of it occurring.
Steve comments “if a coach takes their development seriously and takes the time to meet the criteria for coaching accreditation, it starts to demonstrate that they are serious about their practice and most importantly, their clients.”
He also comments “for purchasers of coaching you should not choose a provider on this alone. Make sure you assess the other elements that are important such as return on investment, relationship and credibility in the market place.”
How to become accredited?
Each body has different criteria you need to meet to become accredited. Typically you will need to be a member of the body you are applying for accreditation with. You will need to submit a combination of your coaching philosophy, case studies, evidence of personal development, evidence that you are in supervision, references, reports from your coach, testimonials and relevant certificates/diplomas etc.
Steve comments “Make sure you do your research and be thorough. Choose to be accredited with the body you feel most closely aligned to in terms of philosophy, values and ethics, and the one you feel will offer your practice the most benefits.”
For further information on accreditation, visit:
Association for Coaching
The European Mentoring and Coaching Council
International Coaching Federation
One small step up the mountain often widens your horizons in all directions.