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Key Takeaways Talking to an executive coach can make you feel vulnerable, which is why many business leaders are hesitant to even try.
Once you understand what executive coaching is (and what it isn’t), you can speak with other leaders who have hired a coach to get a better feel.
Then, you will have a better idea of how to choose the right coach for yourself, and maybe even just start with a workshop or leadership retreat.
More than 70% of organizations offer leadership coaching, yet many professionals remain hesitant about the process. Whether you were assigned an executive coach by your organization or are considering hiring one on your own, it’s completely normal to feel apprehensive. Speaking with someone new about your career, leadership and challenges can make you feel incredibly vulnerable, especially if you’ve never partnered with a coach before. Let’s explore four considerations that can be helpful if you’re feeling uncertain about the idea of working with an executive coach.
1. Understand what executive coaching is, and what it isn’t
Much of the hesitation around coaching stems from a misunderstanding of what the process actually involves. That’s human. When something feels ambiguous, our brains fill in the gaps with scary possibilities.
Many professionals mistakenly assume they’ll spend sessions divulging their biggest secrets, unpacking trauma or receiving unsolicited advice. If that were the reality, discomfort would make perfect sense.
As I’ve explained previously, executive coaching isn’t therapy. You won’t be unpacking childhood trauma, analyzing your relationship with your parents, or receiving unsolicited advice. Your coach is not your therapist. They’re also not your mentor or consultant. A trained coach shouldn’t be giving you unsolicited advice, or really any advice at all. It’s a confidential space where you can bring your biggest leadership challenges and opportunities, weigh your options, strengthen your decision-making and develop an intentional plan forward.
In fact, the International Coaching Federation (ICF), the global authority on coaching, defines professional coaching as, “a transformative journey where you discover your true potential… At its heart, coaching is about exploration… Through powerful questioning and insightful dialogue, coaches support you in discovering your own solutions, whether for life decisions, career shifts or business challenges.”
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