Did you know that the majority of newbie executive coaches don't really know what their clients want?

Executive coaching is a term that is often misunderstood, yet seen as a potentially lucrative career.

That's why, if it's a direction you want to head in, it's essential to make sure you've had the right executive coaching training.

You might think that years of business experience and a common sense approach qualify you to become an executive coach - and they might.

But lack of regulation in the industry means many executives are now wary of "executive coaches". Senior managers tend to pick a coach via word of mouth referral. If this isn't possible, then they'll look for someone who is certified and can provide cast-iron-references.

The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) has recognised this problem and has issued guidelines on how to choose an executive coach.
Though this report is aimed at HR professionals, it will give you an idea of the standards being sought by companies hiring professional coaches.

Once you know what to expect...

... then it's easier for you to choose the right course.

What is executive coaching?

Executive coaching is a balance between coaching and mentoring, depending on the needs of your client.

"Life can be lonely at the top" is a true cliche.

Many executives have to make difficult decisions for which they have to keep their own counsel. They often have no one in their organisation to use as a sounding board.

So a coach, for them, would be simply someone to listen.

For others, they may be facing personal barriers, such as self-confidence issues, which are preventing them from improving their performance. They would be looking for a coach who is also well qualified in skills such as NLP to help them break through whatever is holding them back.

As you can imagine, they will also have certain expectations about the skills and experience their coach has.

How Do I Find Executive Coaching Training

One way to find a good course is the same way you'll find good clients - through networking.

Consider joining your local Chamber Of Commerce or local coaching support group. Meet other coaches. Find out how they got to where they are. See which courses they recommend.

If this isn't an option for you, you could turn to the internet and start searching. But make sure you ask any potential executive coach training provider the following questions:

Do you recommend your students have a minimum level of business experience, or will you accept anyone onto your courses?

What proportion of your students go on to become executive coaches?
How much of the course focuses on how to set up a successful coaching practice, rather than just business skills?
What support is there after the course?
If you could offer one piece of advice to anyone planning to become an executive coach, what would it be?

If you're serious about becoming an executive coach and working in a business environment with senior managers and HR teams, then it's worth considering joining the CIPD, to keep up to date with their proposals to regulate the industry.

Next: Prefer a more integrated approach? Find out about NLP Coaching Training