Question From A Coach - How Long Does It Take For A Non-Credentialed Coach To Gain Credibility In The Market?

Jennifer - Well, I’m not sure how long it would take for a non-credentialed coach to gain credibility, but I do know this: Around 6 or 7 years ago, it was no problem for non-credentialed coaches to run a practice and earn some money. You could hang your shingle and you were a coach. Your credibility was as good as your web page, your branding, how well you could sell yourself, and how many testimonies you had.

But now, non-credentialed coaches are competing with scores of ICF credentialed coaches. So, I would say that previously it was easier for non-credentialed coaches to gain credibility more quickly than it is now. In fact, I was on a call the other day, mentoring an experienced coach client of mine who has been practicing as a successful non-credentialed coach for the last 9 years. She was sharing her realization that she needed to earn her ICF ACC credential because she was told she would be more hirable with it.

So, if you are a non-credentialed coach looking to gain credibility, an ICF credential might be your quickest path there these days. Not only will you increase your credibility and be more hirable, but your coaching skills and competence will dramatically improve.  As a result, your coaching will improve, your confidence will grow, and your clients will enjoy bigger breakthroughs.  Sounds like a win, win to me.