A business coach should have some formal training, and have some understanding of organizational dynamics including how to navigate corporate culture. Other questions: Is coach part of any organizations? Does coach publish books or articles? Does coach offer products and services in addition to coaching? But don’t take degrees and certifications at face value. They tell you nothing about quality of coaching. Evaluate how they work with clients Many organizational consultants direct you toward answers without involving you in solution. That’s not coaching. A skilled coach will engage you in dialogue, give you a new look at an issue, and ultimately let you decide what’s best. The coach’s role is to provide support to enhance skills, resources, and creativity that you already have. Coaches are trained to listen, to observe, and to customize their approach to meet your needs. Coaches will elicit solutions from their clients; but a skilled coach also knows when to jump in and provide direction when you get off track. Make sure they’ve been in your shoes Make sure your coach has experience in your area and speaks your language. Many therapists jump on coaching bandwagon. While therapists may have skills and knowledge that help them work on personal transformation, they’re not necessarily best at helping you adapt your leadership style or improve work performance. Other ways to learn about a coach: -- Read their bio, and ask about their background. -- Ask them if they’ve worked through issues you’re having. -- Visit their website and see how they market themselves. Look for testimonials and get real referrals Most coaches will post a client list or testimonials on their website so you can see what their clients think. Beware of anonymous testimonials. Ask for names and numbers of clients to contact, to validate coach’s work. Call them. Ask specific questions such as: -- What was it like to be coached by this person? -- Did they help you achieve your goals? -- Would you hire this coach again? Make sure you fit with your coach Trust your instincts when deciding whether or not coach truly understands who you are and what you need. You may want: -- A coach who’s direct and will act as a constant “swift kick in behind.” -- A coach who provides advice and talks about their experiences. -- A coach who listens as you pull answers from inside yourself. Ultimately, you will want a coach with whom you have great rapport, who you would trust with certain details of your life as well as your observations, who will not judge you.