As I’ve studied the “coach” thing, there are three things that are consistent. A great coaching relationship will:
1. be based on true principles. If a coach teaches fad junk stuff then you are off to a bad start. I think 95% of the coaches will teach the true principles.
2. provide accountability. This is key – even the greatest athletes have coaches that hold them accountable, and (usually) they recognize the value in this relationship.
3. have tools to facilitate the relationship. Obviously the tools include e-mail, phone, etc. but I think that JibberJobber is an EXCELLENT tool to greatly enhance a coaching relationship (have you seen the coaching features?)
Here’s a great article on different types of coaches, specifically types of career coaches. I didn’t realize there were so many! You gotta read this article to see the definitions – if you want a coach it will be very valuable to understand these differences. The breakdown is as follows:
Career Planning Coaches
Career Development Coaches
Career Management Coaches
Career Transition Coaches
One size doesn’t fit all, eh?