Janet Harvey: Hello! My name is Janet Harvey. I worked as a professional coach for 16 years and I am a member of the International Coach Federation.

I am going to share with you today about starting your career as a professional coach. Specifically, I am going to discuss the type of research you'll want to perform when determining if being a coach is right for you. First, be sure you have a solid understanding of what coaching really is and what it isn't. Coaching isn't consulting, advising, therapy or being paid to be someone's friend. Coaching is about partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential.

Professional coaches help clients gain more awareness of their strengths and internal resources. This helps contribute to a client's positive change and goal achievement. You'll want to consider if you have a good personality to be a professional coach. Here are some things to think about. Are you naturally curious and a good listener? Coaching is about inviting your client to express what is important and relevant to the goals they wish to achieve. Do you enjoy working with people? It's important for a coach to be able to build trust in their coaching relationships. Are you an effective communicator? As a coach, you will provide clear feedback including metaphors to help illustrate your point. Are you a self-starter, organized and good at time management? It's valuable to consider creating time for your clients, for your own personal life and the many aspects of running a small business. Take some time to review the many research reports, case studies and other tools available online at sites such as coachfederation.

org. These items will give you a clearer picture of what to expect including the types of goals clients are typically interested in achieving, average salaries for professional coaches and idea the types of clients using professional coaches around the world and so much more.

I encourage you to refer to these tips we have discussed today as you research the profession of coaching.