Coaching is currently one of the most popular methods of employee development. There is, however, still confusion about what coaching exactly involves and brings. The International Coach Federation (ICF) defines coaching as "partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential." That can mean many things except the ten most common misconceptions about coaching published by cbsnews.com (see below).
1st Myth: A coach is a professional who can help you achieve your goals
Coaching is still not uniformly regulated. Therefore, there are still self-proclaimed "coaches" without necessary qualification. When cosing a coach, be sure to work with accredited coaches. ICF certification is the ideal solution.
2nd Myth: Coaching is a nice benefit
Successful organizations see coaching as something more than just a benefit - something with a direct financial sense. Professional coaching can boost sales, employee satisfaction and commitment, creativity and thus overall economic results.
3rd Myth: Life coaches can only help with personal goals and professional coaches only with professional goals
Good coach helps others to positive changes in their lives regardless of the nature of their goals.
4th Myth: Professional coaching is designed for problem employees
Although coaching can hepl to improve inefficiencies, currently it is used primarily to support the most efficient workers.
5th Myth: Coaching takes too much time
Coaching has proved significant benefits in the intensity of just one hour per month. Excellent results have been achieved in twenty to sixty minute long calls with coaches two to four times a month.
6th Myth: Your coach is your friend
A coach wants the best from you and will help you to succeed. Unlike friendship, however, your relationship with the coach will focus only on you.
7th Myth: Coaching is good only for senior managers
Coaching is for anyone who wants to live a better life. Companies are effectively applying coaching to non-managers.
8th Myth: A coach is a consultant saying what to do
A good coach does not give advice. He asks questions and helps his clients to found their own answers. He is an expert on the process of behavioral change.
9th Myth: Coaching is expensive
ICF Global Coaching Client Study showed that the median return on investment in coaching reached 3.4 times the investment.
10th Myth: Coaching is a spiritual matter
While there are certainly spiritual coaches who can use the advantage of their spirituality in their work with clients, most coaches are practical professionals focused on tangible results.
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