I have spent 20 years in the coaching industry and, while I've seen a lot, I certainly haven't seen everything. Although I am highly experienced, I do not consider myself an authority on anything other than my own approach. Therefore, you should consider my opinions critically, yet remain open to the possibility that I may have some valuable insights.
This article summarizes obstacles that hinder coaches, companies, and the industry at large. Addressing these issues openly and honestly could significantly improve the world. In my experience, authentic coaching has the unparalleled power to transform individuals.
It's time to explore what gets in the way with a list of the adversaries of coaching:
Low-Quality Coaching Schools
Many coaches I've retrained chose their initial certification based on cost and convenience, resulting in poor coaching abilities. The overall quality of coach training has declined, partly due to new entrants with compelling marketing but lacking substance. Don't be fooled by inexpensive, fast-track programs. Conduct thorough research, look beyond enticing testimonials, and assess the real value provided by the training institution.
Antidote: Commit to comprehensive research and consider additional training if needed.
Confusing Executive and Life Coaching:
Confusing different types of coaching e.g. executive and life coaching
Differentiating between executive and life coaching based on marketing or positioning is misleading. Opting for an executive coaching course does not necessarily make you a better coach than if you had chosen a general coaching course. The key is to receive the best possible training in coaching fundamentals.
Antidote: Focus on excelling as a coach first, then strategically market your specialization.
What's your opinion about coaching
Yourself
The greatest challenge might be yourself. You may doubt your abilities or, conversely, believe you're superior to others. Life's circumstances, including work, finances, family, and relationships, can distract from the dedication coaching requires.
Antidote: Engage with coaching communities for support and consider periodic personal coaching.
Compromising and Taking Shortcuts
Early in my career, I found it challenging to adhere strictly to the principles I had learned, opting instead for shortcuts to expedite client action. This approach yielded mediocre results. It was only later that I recognized the profound impact of following foundational principles.
Antidote: Reflect on your coaching practice to identify where you're cutting corners.
Misusing Coaching
Having been a coach and a leader in a major coach training organization, I've seen coaching used manipulatively, including for passive-aggressive behavior or to advance personal agendas. Identifying and confronting such misuse requires courage and keen observation.
Antidote: Trust your instincts when something feels off and address it directly.
Superiority Complex
Embarking on a coaching journey often leads to significant personal growth, which can sometimes result in a feeling of superiority over others. This attitude is counterproductive and contradicts the essence of coaching. Being a coach does not place you above anyone else. Misuse of coaching, especially by those in authority, can be harmful.
Antidote: Embrace a genuine desire to serve others and maintain compassion
At the end of the day coaches are just people, but with a great responsibility not only towards clients but also the world. If you are a coach or a leader within an organization or community
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Author Bio
Johan Premfors is the co-founder of Spring and a seasoned professional coach and trainer. Formerly the President and CEO of the Co-Active Training Institute (CTI) in San Francisco, the oldest and largest coach training school globally, Johan has nearly two decades of coaching experience. He continues to serve as an active faculty member at CTI, having trained and collaborated with thousands of individuals and hundreds of organizations worldwide, from California to Kabul.