The Executive Coach plays the role of catalyst when leadership and management are undergoing dramatic changes. Coaches frequently provide leadership development by becoming an expert in areas with a gap in skills and knowledge. They then work with companies and organizations to establish authentic and qualified change agents. Most executive coaching institutes provide certification for their programs so that business leaders and managers will recognize the skill sets needed for the position. Some organizations offer these certification programs without qualifying for the institute credentialing process.
The purpose of executive coach certification is to set up a standardized credentialing system for those coaches who wish to provide mentoring services to external clients. This credentialing system is designed to ensure that a person has a specialized level of training and expertise that qualifies him or her to be an effective change agent. It should be noted that certification does not translate into job fulfillment. It is only a verification of the candidate’s abilities. In addition, executive coach certification programs are usually not accrediting.
There are many organizations that offer executive coaches. Some organizations require a specified number of years of experience as well as specific training and certifications. Many executive coaches hold both PCC and PECE certification, which are two of the most recognized certifications in the executive coaching industry. These two certifications, however, do not carry the same weight in the hiring process as are the other certifications. It is important for executives who hold these certifications to take the time to go through the hiring process for each client individually. PCC certification is usually the first step towards becoming certified, but it will not guarantee job placement.
To become certified as an executive coach, a candidate must be trained for at least one year by a coach who holds at least five years of experience in the field. A candidate who is employed in the field by an agency may not be eligible for this certification. Candidates who have already graduated from an accredited college, who are employed in the field as a trainer or counselor, and who have at least one year of relevant experience can apply for certified coach status. Certified coaches are often paid a higher salary than non-certified coaches.
Executive coaching is an interesting field because of its focus on leadership development and management skills. While executive coaching is not often directly related to leadership, executive coaching does involve leadership development and management. Because executive coaching deals with leadership skills in the context of a business environment, executive coaching is important in the development of leadership skills and overall management capabilities. The area of executive coaching is one of the fastest growing within the larger field of executive coaching.
Coaches can be from within companies, from marketing departments, from human resources departments, or from within the company’s structure itself – either a small group of individuals or a large group of professionals. Many executive coaches work with individuals on a daily basis. Coaches can help individuals who feel stuck or frustrated with their own actions, but do not necessarily know how to deal with others. They can help them realize that their actions do not define them, that they do not need to try so hard, and that they can relax and not obsess over every little thing. In a business environment, where so much is riding on every decision, executive coaches can provide the leadership that an individual needs to make a good decision and to get the job done.
While there is certainly a demand for executive coaching, the amount of qualified individuals in this field is limited. Most executive coaches have at least a bachelor’s degree, although some pursue advanced degrees. Some have advanced degrees such as psychology, while others have a master’s degree in business administration, marketing, or management. There is also a significant amount of education and training required to become certified in executive coaching. Because of this, many executive coaches hold multiple licensing degrees and work at both public and private organizations. Their education and training have prepared them for the challenges ahead, and now they are ready to help you!