Credential holders on the rise as clients expect more from their coach
LEXINGTON, Ky., July 24, 2008 — More than 4,000 professional coaches now hold a credential from the International Coach Federation (ICF). These ICF Credentialed coaches are from all over the world, a total of 4,029 representing 47 countries from Argentina to Vietnam.
The ICF offers a world-renowned credentialing system recognized for setting the highest standards for the coaching profession. In its second decade of existence, it is known as the only globally recognized and independent program of its kind. The ICF’s current work to align its credentialing system to International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards for bodies operating certification of persons will assist in the continued growth of global credibility and permanent value of ICF Credentials.
“The ICF is delighted to see a strong growth in the demand for our credential as coaches strive to excel in their profession by meeting higher qualifications and training requirements,” said ICF President Diane Brennan, MBA, MCC(1). “More than 500 ICF Credentials have been awarded since January 2008, indicating a sharp increase in coaches who are dedicated to meeting a growing client demand for credentialed coaches.”
As the growth of the coaching profession persists, the ICF will continue to aid consumers by offering information on what to look for and demand when hiring a coach. According to the ICF Global Coaching Study conducted by PricewaterhouseCoopers, 52 percent of coaches report that their coaching clients expect the coach they hire to be credentialed.
Potential coaching clients can search for an ICF Credentialed coach by using the ICF’s free Coach Referral Service (CRS), available on Coachfederation.org. The CRS is a searchable directory allowing consumers to search for a coach using various criteria, including professional experience they would like a coach to have, desired coaching method, language preference, etc.
Earning an ICF Credential requires an applicant to undergo extensive coach-specific training, gain experience by serving clients, and demonstrate a working knowledge of the ICF Core Competencies and Code of Ethics through a rigorous examination process.
There are three levels of ICF Credentials: Associate Certified Coach (ACC); Professional Certified Coach (PCC); and Master Certified Coach (MCC). Each requires varying degrees of specific requirements. The ICF Credential is awarded to professional coaches that validate they meet or exceed these minimum standards.
The ICF defines coaching as partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential. Coaching is a distinct service and differs greatly from therapy, consulting, mentoring or training. Individuals who engage in a coaching relationship can expect to experience fresh perspectives on personal challenges and opportunities, enhanced thinking and decision-making skills, enhanced interpersonal effectiveness, and increased confidence in carrying out their chosen work and life roles.
The International Coach Federation is the leading global organization for coaches, with more than 13,000 members in over 80 countries, dedicated to advancing the coaching profession by setting high ethical standards, providing independent certification, and building a worldwide network of credentialed coaches. The ICF is the only organization that awards a global credential which is currently held by over 4,000 coaches worldwide. For more information on how to become or find an ICF Credentialed coach, please visit our Web site at http://www.coachfederation.org.
(1) MCC: Master Certified Coach, highest credential awarded by the International Coach Federation.
ICF HEADQUARTERS CONTACTS:
Ann Belcher, +1.859.226.4428, naa.orypure@pbnpusrqrengvba.bet'));
Kristin Hogue, +1.859.219.3614,
Amy Richardson, +1.859.219.3550,
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