Thursday, June 19, 2008

7 Reasons to Credential as a Coach

ACC, PCC, MCC? What are these? What do they mean? As the coaching profession “grows up”, credentialing is increasingly a must. For the last few years, the International Coach Federation (ICF) has been working to enhance the recognition of the Accredited Coach program. For more information about ICF credentials, click here. If you are a coach and not yet a member yet of the ICF, now may be the time to join or check out your local chapter.

From my own vantage point, here are 7 reasons why it is important to credential as a coach:

1. An ICF is Increasingly asked for and is often pre-requisite for corporate and larger contracts
2. Standardization in the market place
3. Uniform recognition
4. Better Understood by the public (organizations and individuals) compared to the myriad of coach specific acronyms we carry.
5. Opens up new opportunities: Many RFPs are now asking for an ICF accredited coach
6. Dedication to the profession
7. Distinguish Yourself - Stand out in a crowded market place

Did you know that in order to apply for the ACC credential as of July 1 if you opt to go the Portfolio route, you will need to work with a PCC or MCC Mentor Coach for a minimum on10 hours? The portfolio route is for trained coaches who may not opt to certify with a coach training school. Mentor coaching in this context are defined as focusing on coaching around the ICF Core Competencies, rather than business development coaching or coaching on general issues.

Looking for to credentialize via the portfolio route? Looking for a mentor coach? I currently have space in my practice to work with two coaches who are looking to credentialize or looking for a mentor coach. Want more information? Click here. I offer a special 10 hour mentor coaching package rate for coaches (can be paid in 3 to 5 installments). Give me a call toll free at 1-866-217-1960 or email me and we can set up a time to talk to see if we are a good fit.

What's been your experience with credentialing? What opportunities has it provided for you? Please feel free to comment below.

Warm wishes,
Jennifer

Jennifer Britton, PCC
Potentials Realized
Group Coaching Essentials
Email: info(at) potentialsrealized.com

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