LEXINGTON, Ky., May 6, 2009 — A handshake deal or verbal agreement may work between neighbors, but when it comes to a business relationship, such as a coaching arrangement, the International Coach Federation (ICF) recommends coaching clients and their coach have a written agreement.
Almost two-thirds of professional coaches and their clients have a written contract or agreement in place for coaching services, according to the recent ICF Global Coaching Client Study(1). While it is hopeful that a majority (64 percent) of respondents reported they do have a written agreement, a significant portion does not, implying many coaching engagements are based on verbal agreements. Verbal agreements can be risky and leave both the client and the coach vulnerable to unforeseen misunderstandings.
“A coaching partnership is a business partnership and should be treated as one,” said ICF President Karen Tweedie, PCC(2). “A professional coaching relationship, by definition, exists when coaching includes a business agreement or contract that defines the responsibilities of each party. A written agreement shows that both the client and the coach are committed to the success of their partnership.”
What are the advantages of having a written agreement?
- It provides a record for what both parties have agreed upon and diminishes the potential for misunderstandings;
- Offers legal protection – if a misunderstanding does arise and cannot be resolved directly, it provides an objective basis on which a third party may resolve the disagreement;
- It serves as a tangible reminder of the work to be accomplished by the partnership; and
- It provides a basis from which a coach and client can measure progress.
To find an ICF professional coach, visit the free online Coach Referral Service (CRS) at http://www.coachfederation.org. This service connects potential clients with coaches who hold an ICF Credential – coaches who have met stringent educational requirements, received specific coach training and achieved a designated number of experience hours among other requirements.
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 over 17,000 members in more than 90 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 4,800 coaches worldwide. For more information on how to become, how to find an ICF Credentialed coach, or the new ICF Global Coaching Client Study, please visit http://www.coachfederation.org.
(1) The 2009 ICF Global Coaching Client Study was commissioned by the ICF and conducted by Association Resource Centre Inc. and PricewaterhouseCoopers. (2) PCC: Professional Certified Coach, credential awarded by the International Coach Federation.
Note: for more information or to schedule an interview with an ICF leader, please contact Ann Belcher, +1.859.226.4428, ; Kristin Hogue, +1.859.219.3614, ; or Amy Richardson, +1.859.219.3550, .
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