Starting a career as a personal coach can be an exciting move for many people. It provides you with the ability to help people and make a difference in their lives. At the same time, it offers you a chance of doing work that you truly enjoy and believe in. Below is some information on how to get started as a personal coach.
Research About Different Coaching Programs
There are many ways to start a career as a personal coach. It all depends on the type of person you are and what you are looking for in terms of career goals, training programs, and location. If you have decided that becoming a personal coach is right for you, do some local and online research to determine which coaching programs are right. You will likely want to find a program with the appropriate certifications and perhaps more affordable than others. Be sure to check out the pros and cons listed on the coaching program sites before making your final decision.
Determine an Area of Specialization
Take time to learn more about the types of services a personal coach offers. Find out which ones will most benefit you, your career, and your clients. There are many different coaching services, including executive coaching, business coaching, health coaching, career/life coaching, etc. Choose one or two main areas of specialization to narrow down what you can do for other people. For example, if you are interested in working with executives on team-building, do some research on what types of coaching you can offer this clientele.
Consider Getting Certification
As you continue your research, you may find that several different training programs could benefit you and your career. If you want to enter this field, it is best to obtain a certification in one or more areas such as executive coaching, health coaching, career coaching, etc. Keep in mind that a personal coach is not a therapist or health professional and will not help clients through therapy or medication needs.
Contact Local Colleges and Universities for Inquiries
Once you have chosen a coaching program to follow, contact your local community college or university’s continuing education department and ask if they could provide you with some details on how you could begin studying for your certification. Some programs will require a college degree to enroll. However, many will not. If you do not have a degree, it may be worth your time to consider going back to school and completing your undergraduate studies before pursuing any certification.
Start Networking
Once you have your coaching certification, it is important to start networking with others in the same field. Get on social sites like LinkedIn and see what groups are there for personal coaches. Look for ways to connect with other people in this field, especially those who have been in the business longer than you have. If possible, join a local chapter of their association. If one does not exist, consider starting one up. You will learn a great deal by learning from those who have already gone through the process you are currently going through, so stay connected.
Market Yourself
The next step is to get out there and market yourself like crazy. Make sure to tell everyone that you are looking for clients. It would help if you never undervalued the power of word of mouth and your contacts. You may want to ask friends and family if they know anyone looking for a personal coach to offer your services. It is important to remember that you are not a therapist or doctor. Be sure to let them know this early on in the process.
It is important to take the time to understand what it means to be a personal coach before entering into any training program. If you are considering a career change, keep in mind that becoming a personal coach does not necessarily mean making tons of money quickly. It is still very important to market yourself and get out there to get the most out of this new career path. With enough research and effort, you can find plenty of people who are willing and able to hire a personal coach. Explore your options today.