Finding a leadership coach can be a game-changer for your professional development. But how do you sift through the noise and identify the right one? While many coaches offer science-backed strategies and transformative insights, some can lead you down a path of false promises and wasted time.
Here’s a guide to the 10 red flags you need to watch out for when hiring a leadership coach.
1. “Well, I Did It – So Now I Can Teach You How”
If a coach’s methodology revolves solely around their own experiences, it might be time to look elsewhere. Success isn’t predictable or one-size fits all; leadership coaching is not about transferring knowledge; it’s about facilitating personal growth and professional development.
2. They Have Zero Certifications
A good coach should have formal training and certifications. Leadership coaching requires a deep understanding of human behavior, psychology, and effective communication. Certifications from accredited programs ensure the coach has the necessary skills and ethical standards.
3. They Are Very Busy & Unfocused
If your coach constantly forgets conversations or seems flustered, they might be burnout or disorganized, and they may have too many clients. This lack of focus can hinder your progress. Ask potential leadership coaches about their client load and how they manage their time.
4. They Talk the Talk but Don’t Walk the Talk
Beware of coaches who can spout great sound bites but fail to offer actionable steps. Effective coaching should lead to real change, not just motivational speeches. Additionally, if a coach doesn’t have their own coach or mentors, it indicates they aren’t committed to their own growth.
5. They Overpromise and Underdeliver
Be wary of coaches who offer quick fixes or guaranteed success. Great leadership coaching boosts key aspects of leadership skills and behaviors resulting in transformational change. If they make it sound too easy, it is — and they probably aren’t being honest about the process.
6. They Are Energy Vampires
Coaching should leave you feeling empowered and motivated, not drained and tired. Energy vampires feed off your enthusiasm and leave you depleted. While some coaching sessions may be emotionally intense, you should never feel like your coach is sucking the life out of you.
7. They Promote a Toxic Hustle Mindset
Hustle culture glorifies overworking and burnout. A good coach should encourage balance and sustainable growth, not pushing you to the brink of exhaustion. If your coach is all about the grind without considering your well-being, they’re setting you up for burnout, not success.
8. They Offer A One-Size-Fits-All Approach
If a coach uses the same methodology for every client, they aren’t providing the tailored guidance you need. Effective coaching is about adaptability and understanding your specific context and goals. Beware of coaches who can’t customize their approach.
9. Promises of Huge, Unrealistic Income Boosts
Coaching is not a get-rich-quick scheme. Beware of coaches who guarantee substantial income increases in a short period. Success takes time, and no one can promise you overnight wealth. When it comes to finances, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Promises of Huge, Unrealistic Income Boosts.
10. Focuses on Manifesting Instead of Actionable Steps
While positive thinking and visualization can be helpful, they aren’t substitutes for practical strategies. A good coach will help you develop clear, concrete actionable steps toward your goals — and keep you on track. If they’re all about dreaming without doing, it’s a red flag.
What to Look For in a Leadership Coach Instead
- Certifications from Accredited Coaching Organizations
Look for coaches with certifications from reputable organizations like the International Coaching Federation (ICF). This ensures they adhere to high ethical and professional standards.
- An Individualized Approach
Effective coaches understand that one size does not fit all. They should offer a tailored approach that takes into account your unique needs, market, and business environment.
- They Stay In Their Lane
A good coach knows their scope and expertise. They won’t pretend to be an expert in everything and will focus on what they do best.
- Realistic Expectations
Look for coaches who offer achievable and realistic outcomes. Skip the grand promises of quick riches. Instead, find someone who focuses on sustainable growth and realistic success.
- Transparency About Their Experience
A reputable coach will be upfront about their qualifications and experience. Whether they’re seasoned or just starting, honesty about their background is crucial.
Choosing the right leadership coach is essential for your professional growth. By being aware of these red flags and knowing what to look for instead, you can make an informed decision and find a coach who will genuinely help you achieve your goals. Remember, a good coach is not just a mentor but a partner in your journey toward success.
Kelly Meerbott, PCC is a renowned expert in executive leadership coaching, a TEDx and keynote speaker, author, and host of the podcast Hidden Human.
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