I just got off the phone with a prospective client who was looking for an executive coach. We talked about how to choose a coach who is right for her. I suggested she use the following criteria in the selection process.

Chemistry. This is the most important criterion. Ask yourself some questions. Who do you learn best from, men or women, or does it matter? Do you like to think out loud and learn from conversation, or are you more focused and to the point? Do you like a lot of homework? Do you get defensive when pushed? Know the answers to these types of questions before you start interviewing coaches.

Experience. Do you need a coach with industry experience, or is a generalist better for you? Be careful on this one. Generalists have a lot of diverse experience to offer and most coaches don’t restrict themselves to one industry anyway. How much experience is right? Five years? Fifteen? Determine a range, but don’t get hung up on specific numbers.

Training. If you are going to spend time and money on a coach, he or she should be highly trained. I recommend coaches with Ph.D.s or masters degrees and additional training in executive coaching.

Cost. In life you get what you pay for. Coaching may seem expensive, but if the coach is good, it is worth it. You will make better decisions and work more effectively, and the coaching fees will be recouped many times over. Expect to pay around $300 an hour and you’re in the right ballpark.

Jevon Powell