Question From A Coach – What Is A Trend In Coaching I Should Be Aware Of?
As a mentor who works with many coaches during their credentialing journey, I keep a close eye on trends in the industry. One important trend that I have noticed is the growing move by coaches to work with third-party coaching organizations. Companies like BetterUp and Korn Ferry are springing up all over, offering coaches the opportunity to work with clients provided by these organizations rather than having to find their own.
This trend is likely to continue to grow, especially as more coaches realize that finding clients can be challenging. Many coaches are now saying, “I just want to get to coaching. I'm a really good coach and I just want to get a job with one of these coaching companies that will pay me and feed me clients so that I can do what I love and what I'm good at doing?” This shift in attitude is not surprising, as finding clients can be a major challenge for many coaches, particularly those who are just starting out.
Another trend that I have noticed among third party coaching organizations is their expansion into personal coaching. For example, BetterUp, which previously focused on coaching for corporate clients, now offers coaching to individuals as well. This trend is likely to continue to develop, offering new opportunities for coaches who are struggling to find clients.
It's important to note that most third-party coaching organizations require coaches to be accredited by the International Coaching Federation (ICF) to work with them. This credential serves as a filter for those organizations, ensuring that coaches meet certain standards and are qualified to work with their clients.
While working with third-party coaching organizations may not be for everyone, it's important for coaches to be aware of this trend and its potential benefits. For example, working with these organizations can provide coaches with a steady stream of clients and a reliable income, which can be especially appealing for those who are just starting out. On the other hand, some coaches may prefer to have more control over their coaching services and work directly with their own clients.
The trend of coaches working with third-party coaching organizations is likely to continue to grow in the future. Coaches who are considering this option should ensure they are accredited by the ICF and carefully consider the potential benefits and drawbacks of working with these organizations. While it may not be the right fit for everyone, it can be a valuable option for coaches looking to build their practice and work with a diverse range of clients.