Executive coaching is a profession that has been steadily gaining popularity in recent years. As more and more leaders seek to improve their performance and leadership skills, executive coaches have become a valuable resource for helping them achieve their goals. However, even coaches need coaching themselves. Executive coaches can benefit greatly from having their own coach, and in this article, we explore why that is.
Advantages of executive coaches having a coach
Self-awareness
One of the primary benefits of having an executive coach is the increased self-awareness that it can bring. Executive coaches help their clients become more self-aware of their own strengths and weaknesses, blind spots, biases, and areas for growth. However, coaches can often overlook their own blind spots and biases, and having their own coach can help them identify these areas and work on improving them.
Self-awareness is a crucial component of effective coaching. Coaches who are more self-aware are better equipped to understand their clients' needs and tailor their coaching approach accordingly. They are also more open to feedback and better able to recognize their own limitations. By having a coach, executive coaches can become more self-aware and, in turn, more effective coaches.
Accountability
Another benefit of having an executive coach is accountability. Executive coaches are well-versed in holding their clients accountable for their goals and actions. However, coaches can sometimes struggle with holding themselves accountable. With a coach, executive coaches can stay accountable to their own goals, commitments, and professional development plans.
Accountability is crucial for achieving success in any area of life. By having someone who can hold them accountable, executive coaches are more likely to follow through on their commitments and achieve their goals. This, in turn, can help them become better coaches, as they can model the behavior they expect from their clients.
Continual learning
Executive coaching is a field that requires continuous learning and development. Coaching techniques and best practices are constantly evolving, and coaches need to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments. Having a coach can provide executive coaches with access to new coaching techniques, insights into best practices, and feedback on their coaching approach.
Coaches who are committed to their own professional development are better equipped to help their clients achieve their goals. By staying up-to-date with the latest coaching trends and techniques, executive coaches can provide their clients with the most effective coaching possible. They can also continue to grow and develop as coaches, which can help them take their coaching to the next level.
Well-being
Finally, having a coach can help executive coaches prioritize their own well-being. Executive coaching can be a demanding and stressful profession, and coaches can sometimes struggle to take care of themselves while also caring for their clients. By having a coach, executive coaches can have a supportive and confidential space to reflect on their own well-being, manage stress, and prevent burnout.
Prioritizing well-being is crucial for any individual, but it is especially important for executive coaches. Coaches who are burnt out or stressed out are less effective at helping their clients achieve their goals. By taking care of themselves first, executive coaches can ensure that they are able to provide the best possible coaching to their clients.
10 things to look for in an executive coach
When looking for an executive coach, it's important to find someone who is experienced, knowledgeable, and has the skills and expertise necessary to help you achieve your goals. Here are ten things to look for in an executive coach:
Has relevant experience and expertise in the specific areas you want to improve
Has a proven track record of successfully working with leaders at your level
Has earned executive coaching certifications and undergone professional training
Is a good listener and can provide constructive feedback and support
Is able to create a safe and supportive environment to discuss sensitive matters
Is able to help you identify your goals and develop a plan to achieve them
Is able to challenge you and help you grow both personally and professionally
Is committed to your success and willing to go the extra mile
Is able to adapt their approach to your individual needs and learning style
Is able to maintain a good working relationship and establish trust and respect
The main takeaway
Executive coaches can benefit greatly from having their own coach. Having an executive coach can help coaches become more self-aware, stay accountable, continue to learn and grow, and prioritize their own well-being. By taking care of themselves, executive coaches can become better coaches and provide the best possible coaching to their clients. As the demand for executive coaching continues to grow, it is important for coaches to recognize the value of having their own coach and invest in their own professional development.
In this article, we delve into the “10 things to look for in your next executive coach” chapter found in Next 10: Coach Wisdom for Entrepreneurs, Business Owners, and CEOs Wondering What Moves to Make Next, a book written by the Host and Curator of Arete Coach Podcast, Severin Sorensen, with contributions from Amelia Chatterley.
Copyright © 2023 by Arete Coach LLC. All rights reserved.
Comments