Clients can customize search through ICF’s online directory of credentialed coaches
LEXINGTON, Ky., Aug. 26, 2008 — Prospective coaching clients continue to utilize the International Coach Federation’s complimentary Coach Referral Service (CRS) when searching for a qualified professional coach.
The CRS is a searchable directory on the ICF Web site, Coachfederation.org, which assists in matching potential clients with an ICF Credentialed coach at no charge. The CRS allows clients to first choose the type of search that best meets their needs (corporate, small business, personal, career, etc.) and further narrow their search by entering criteria such as coaching specialty, professional experience, desired coaching method, language preference, and more.
Potential clients may also choose to post a Request for Proposal (RFP), a request inviting all coaches who match their search criteria to provide a proposal for their need or project. RFPs are posted for one month allowing CRS coaches to review the request and respond if appropriate. To access the CRS, visit http://www.coachfederation.org and click on the Find a Credentialed Coach link from the home page.
In 2007, the CRS was viewed over 269,600 times. From January 1 through August 15 of this year, the CRS was viewed 173,790 times and over 1,000 RFPs have been submitted.
“The popularity of our CRS tool remains strong as coaching clients increasingly demand their prospective coach have more qualifications and coach-specific training,” said ICF President Diane Brennan, MBA, MCC(1). “Clients are recognizing the CRS is an excellent place to start their search knowing only coaches who’ve earned an ICF Credential will be referred. The benefit for the client is a shorter, simpler focused search of coaches with a high level of training and a commitment to excellence.”
According to the ICF Global Coaching Study conducted by PricewaterhouseCoopers in 2006, 52 percent of coaches report that their coaching clients expect the coach they hire to be credentialed. Earning an ICF Credential requires a coach 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. This ICF’s Credentialing program is in its second decade of existence and to date over 4,100 coaches hold an ICF Credential.
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 14,000 members in nearly 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 4,100 coaches worldwide. For more information about the ICF, please visit our Web site at http://www.coachfederation.org.
*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, .
(1) MCC: Master Certified Coach, highest credential awarded by the
International Coach Federation.
ICF HEADQUARTERS CONTACTS:
Ann Belcher, +1.859.226.4428,
Kristin Hogue, +1.859.219.3614,
Amy Richardson, +1.859.219.3550
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