The Dangers of Working with an Uncertified Coach
Coaching isn’t just a word; it's a distinction. There are ways of not only listening but also tried and true methods of viewing others and the world in a specific way that allows you to create an empowered environment for new possibilities. Coaching isn’t about telling people what to do or about judging or blaming them. When you have acquired specific training and skills for this profession, you understand the importance of upholding this distinction.
Across the globe, professionals are seeking career coaches to elevate their leadership and guide their development. With consumers becoming increasingly skeptical of companies, the role of a professional coach to help business leaders is more important than ever. However, not all coaches are equally effective. One factor that individuals often overlook is the certification of coaches, especially in this information-driven age. In this piece, I’ll explore the potential dangers of working with an uncertified coach and highlight the importance of accreditation within the industry.
The Democratization of Information
If the printing press was the catalyst that brought down the first gatekeepers of information, then the Internet of today is its successor on steroids.
With the touch of the thumb, users can absorb decades of expert research from the world’s greatest minds in bite-sized formats. Take Lex Friedman and Andrew Huberman, for example. Through their podcasts, they are sharing insights from their respective fields to millions of listeners daily. No ivory towers, and no walls preventing the flow of ideas. As a result, the whole world is benefiting from an increased knowledge and perspective.
With every good thing comes someone to take advantage of it. Inevitably, the democratization of information through the internet has also led to widespread misinformation. Nowadays, everyone has a platform, and anyone can claim to be an expert. But not everyone who has “expert knowledge” is actually qualified. For professionals seeking career coaches, this truth is especially dangerous. The snake oil salesman of today has a mic and a camera, ready to profit off the vulnerable.
The Dangers
One danger of an unaccredited coach is that they will provide ineffective guidance. Certified professional coaches undergo rigorous training to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge in career development, communication, and coaching techniques. Without certification or proper training a person may call themselves a coach but have no idea what that distinction means.
Contributing to a lack of expertise is limited resources and tools for unaccredited coaches. Certification often grants access to a wealth of resources, tools, and assessments that enhance the coaching process. Uncertified coaches may lack these resources, hindering their ability to provide comprehensive support to their clients. Furthermore, they are often relegated to advice giving, or worse, projecting their own lives or experience onto the client, negating the very aspect that makes the coaching conversation distinct.
Even if the uncertified coach does have expertise, it could be outdated. Certified coaches are required to stay abreast of industry trends and best practices. In contrast, uncertified coaches may not prioritize continuous learning, potentially offering outdated advice and strategies that are no longer relevant.
A lack of proper expertise and tools often results in ineffective goal creation. Setting and achieving goals is a cornerstone of effective coaching. Certified coaches are trained to assist clients in defining and pursuing realistic goals. Without certification, coaches may struggle to facilitate this process, resulting in unclear objectives and unmet expectations.
Lacking accountability is perhaps one of the strongest dangers of using uncertified coaches. Certification boards, such as the International Coaching Federation, hold coaches accountable for ethical standards, client confidentiality, and maintaining professional boundaries. The absence of certification means a lack of oversight, raising concerns about the coach's commitment to ethical practices. For example, one investigation found that some life coaches are offering advice about mental illnesses, even if unqualified. Therefore, an uncertified career coach could cause you both professional and psychological damage. To become credentialed, you must have oversight. This is imperative in the development and training process so that you can see your proficiencies and find areas for improvement.
Another danger of a lack of certification is limited recognition. Some employers and organizations recognize and prefer coaches with specific certifications, viewing them as more credible and trustworthy. Engaging with an uncertified coach may not provide the same level of recognition, potentially impacting the client's career advancement.
A final danger I want to highlight is financial ruin. Due to a less effective experience, engaging with uncertified coaching may lead to wasted time and financial resources. Some of the most dubious coaches may even use manipulative sales tactics to pressure clients to spend hundreds or thousands of dollars.
The Severest of Schools
The democratization of information has allowed people to gain access to a wealth of knowledge through onlines channels. However, uncertified career coaches are using these same platforms to take advantage of vulnerable professionals. For years, I sat on the sidelines watching these so-called expert coaches damage my industry. Recently, I realized it was time for me to step out of the shadows and take a stand.
As an ICF-certified professional coach with supplementary credentials, I know that an “expert” coach must prove themselves by their training, not just their titles. As Thucydides once said, “We must remember that one man is much the same as another, and that he is best who is trained in the severest school.”
I’m here to guide you through a transformative journey of self-discovery and exponential growth. If you want to schedule some time with me, head here.