Coaching feels like a new buzz word. You can't take a step left or right without coming across some sort of life or business coach—and for good reason. Research has demonstrated the effectiveness of coaching, especially in the workplace. It’s a powerful tool that knocks down barriers, empowers employees to take action, and improves office morale.
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If you're curious about incorporating more coaching philosophies in your current role, or starting your own coaching practice, or even if you have been independently practicing for years, you'll eventually come to the question: “Do I really need to be certified in an unregulated industry?”
And the simple answer is no. You don't have to be certified before offering coaching services. You can certainly “hang your placard” if you choose to do so, but there’s a few reasons why you should consider pursuing a coaching certification, even if you have no plans on leaving your current 9-5 job.
1. A Coaching Certification Will Add Proven Tools and New Techniques
Many of us are drawn to coaching because we feel such a profound sense of joy when our mentees make big strides. When we help coworkers change the way they think, feel, and perceive… when we help clients break through their fears and become the leader of their lives… we are happy for them, and we also feel a sense of fulfillment ourselves.
Going through a certification program will give you proven tools and techniques to help your clients succeed. You already have a wonderful foundation, but your tool box will be better equipped to handle any situation, so you can more effectively empower your clients to move forward and achieve their individual goals.
2. A Coaching Certification Will Establish Legitimacy
A certification is an easy way to stand out in an increasingly saturated market. It boosts your reputation, establishes you as a true professional, and provides an instant layer of legitimacy. Leaders across the globe recognize the value of coaching within their organization -- they know it drives ROI and allows employees to recognize their full potential. And -- whether it’s fair or not -- prospective clients and employers will assign more value to a coach who has invested in a training program. While the initial coaching certification costs can seem daunting, keep in mind that potential clients will be quicker to trust you and will pay more for the services of a certified coach.
3. A Coaching Certification Will Open Doors
We all reach roadblocks. Sometimes we’re faced with situations that we just don’t know how to handle. But, when you’re part of a community of certified coaches, you’ll have an entire circle of peers, mentors, and friends who you can call on when you’re feeling particularly blocked. The importance of knowing when you need support and being able to call on a community of like-minded professionals who are eager to assist you cannot be understated. (It’s also a wonderful opportunity for referrals!)
The coaching industry is still fairly new in the grand scheme of established careers, but it is rapidly expanding each year. As the coaching field continues to grow, it’s entirely possible that certification will become the standard. Don't get shut out of the market for lacking a certification. Wouldn’t you like to be ahead of the curve so you can focus on what you want to be doing—empowering people to be their best self?
To wrap up, here are the biggest reasons why you should invest in an accredited coach training program:
- You’ll gain the skills you need to more effectively help your clients succeed.
- You’ll quickly establish your position as a legitimized expert, garnering more respect and opportunities.
- You’ll be part of a larger community that can support you when you encounter roadblocks.
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Start by checking out our in-depth guide to the field of coaching and find out whether it might be the right career path for you!
