Ten top tips for choosing an accredited executive coach training provider

Becoming a professionally accredited executive coach can be a transformative step in your career, whether you are aiming to work independently or within an organisation. The right training provider is crucial to your development and success. Here are some top tips to help you choose the executive coach training provider that best suits your needs.

1. Understand accreditation and affiliation

When selecting a coach training provider, it is best practice to ensure their programmes are accredited by a recognised coaching body such as the International Coaching Federation (ICF),EMCC Global or the Association for Coaching (AC).Accreditationguarantees that the course meets high standards of quality and ethics. As AoEC graduate and Faculty Sam Jayasuriya advises: “Find out which coaching body their training is affiliated with. This is so important these days as we edge towards coaching being a more regulated industry.”

2. Attend open events or taster sessions

Before committing to a training programme, consider attending an open event or taster session. These sessions provide a glimpse into the teaching style, course content and overall environment. Sam Jayasuriya highlights this approach: "Join some taster sessions first – if these are offered by the coach training school – or undertake a shorter course run by them."

3. Practical experience matters

Theoretical knowledge is essential, but practical experience is invaluable. Look for programmes that offer ample opportunities for real-life coaching practice under professional supervision. Nora Hutson points out: “Online and remote methods may be cheap but there is NOTHING like actively practising, making mistakes and learning from them, under professional supervision."

4. Research, testimonials and guidebooks

When exploring your options, do thorough research on what the training provides. Read testimonialsand if possible, speak to alumni. High quality training providers will often invite past graduates to speak at their open events and share a warts and all account of their coach training experience. This can provide insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the programme you are considering. Claire Davis, who did her coach training with the AoEC, emphasises this: “Research different providers and speak to alumni to find the course that fits best with you and your learning style."

Also make the most of the miscellaneous available resources. Past course participant Emily Gale recommends: "Borrow from the library or buy - Financial Times Guides - Business Coaching as it gives an overview of the best coaching courses available."

5. Reflect on your goals and commitment

Be clear about what you want to achieve from your coach training and ensure you have time and headspace to commit fully. AoEC-trained coach Ashley Proud suggests: "Do your research and be clear about what you really want from your coaching training. The process is quite intense and you will get more out of it if you are not trying to balance many other priorities."

6. Hire a coach yourself

Hiring a coach can be a game-changer in helping you take the steps towards coach training and setting up your own coaching practice. A coach can provide insights on establishing your own business and clarifying what you want from your own coach training experience. Steve Goldstein shares: "Get as much practical experience with people as you can too. Also get a business coach to help you with setting up your business. That was a big turning point for me in moving my career forward as a coach."

7. Embrace personal development

Executive coach training often involves significant personal development. Be prepared to engage deeply and reflect on your own experiences and growth. Fellow AoEC graduate Helen Tuddenham reflected on her own experience: “With coach training at the AoEC, what surprised me was how much you would be going into yourself... it was all done well and was very safe."

8. Look beyond the cost

Whilst cost is a significant factor, it should never be the sole deciding factor. Higher-quality programmes may require a greater investment but can offer better training and career support. Gavin Sharpe notes: "If you can afford it, pick a leading, accredited institution such as AoEC. Apart from the quality of the training, it will differentiate you in a highly competitive field."

9. Be open and vulnerable

The route to becoming an accredited executive coach can be challenging and may require vulnerability as you work on your own self-awareness and set out on a journey to discover who you are and how you coach. George Bruell advises: “Be prepared to be vulnerable. There may be times you feel slightly uncomfortable or ‘de-skilled’. For me, that was an important part of the learning and development process."

10. Engage fully and network

Finally, engage fully in the training and build connections with your cohort. The relationships you form can be a valuable support network throughout your career. Andy Maddock who did the AoEC’s Practitioner Diploma in Executive Coaching reflects: "The real value is the learning journey with the rest of the cohort of people."

Choosing the right executive coach training provider is a pivotal decision that will shape your future career. By following these tips and considering the experiences of others, you can find a programme that not only meets your individual needs but aligns with your goals and supports your development. As Claire Davis succinctly puts it: “Go for it! It was one of the best investments I have ever made and has had a huge impact on me both professionally and personally."