How important is it that an executive coach be certified?
Executive coaching, like any other service, follows the basic market mechanics of supply and demand. And there has been a lot of demand! And the supply follows. With rapid growth, that supply is not all of the same quality. Today’s executive coaching market is filled with everything from psychologists, to former HR people, to people who bought an executive coaching franchise received only a few hours of training.
Executive coaching certification programs are quickly being established, maturing, and setting standards for professional executive coaching. Certifications from major universities that endorsed by professional organizations are becoming the key to recognizing professional, competent executive coaches. A lack of a rigorous certification is a big warning alarm as to the coach’s qualification and ability. Bad or improper coaching can do more harm than good.
