Written by: Rolande S. Sumner, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
Are you a coach looking to attract more paid coaching opportunities from commercial and government clients? Then earning an ICF credential may be the answer. With International Coaching Federation (ICF) training and credentials, you can benefit from its Gold Standards in coaching, including core competencies, best practices, and ethical standards. Here are five reasons why commercial and government clients prefer ICF-credentialed coaches.
The ICF sets the “Gold Standard for Coaching.”
Since its founding in 1995, the International Coaching Federation (ICF) has been dedicated to establishing a strong professional standard of ethics and training within the coaching industry. With its rigorous credentialing standards, ICF-accredited training programs, and strict enforcement of its ethical code, ICF has set the gold standard for the coaching profession. To demonstrate their mastery of the craft, coaches who have earned an ICF coaching credential must pass through a lengthy and thorough process of examination, evaluation, and accreditation. This ensures that those who have achieved a credentialed status have a comprehensive understanding of the skills and techniques necessary for successful coaching. Additionally, ICF-credentialed coaches must maintain professional liability insurance, complete continuing education units, and adhere to a strict code of ethics. All of this creates a strong sense of trust and credibility in ICF credentialed coaches among clients, both commercial and government.
ICF Credentialed Coaches Must adhere to a strict code of ethics.
To become an ICF Credentialed Coach, the training requirements are rigorous, and the credentialing is detailed and time-consuming. But all of this work is worth it because ICF highly values ethical training. They invest a great deal of time and resources into teaching their coaches the ethical standards they must follow and providing tools and resources to help them maintain these standards.
The Code of Ethics that ICF Credentialed Coaches must adhere to covers multiple aspects of their coaching practice, such as protecting client confidentiality, maintaining high professional integrity, and providing unbiased advice and guidance. Additionally, if any ethical complaints are made against an ICF Credentialed Coach, they are investigated to ensure that they are following the ethical guidelines set forth by ICF.
These ethical standards ensure that ICF Credentialed Coaches always conduct themselves with the highest level of integrity, which is why so many commercial and government clients prefer them over non-credentialed coaches.
ICF Credentialed Coaches are required to complete continuing education units.
Coaches credentialed through the International Coaching Federation (ICF) must maintain 40 hours of new continuing coach education units (CCEU) per renewal and upgrade. These CCEUs aim to ensure that ICF-credentialed coaches maintain the highest standards of knowledge and ethical practice in their profession. The CCEUs are focused on core competencies and ethics, as well as "Resource Development is any learning that falls outside of the ICF Core Competencies, but still contributes to a coach's professional development (e.g., personal development, coaching tools or personality and productivity assessments, business building, etc.)", (International Coaching Federation, n.d.)
To earn an ICF coaching credential, coaches must complete an accredited training program, adhere to a strict code of ethics, and commit to ongoing education and training. Continuing education units allow ICF credentialed coaches to demonstrate their commitment to professional development and remain current with best practices. With the help of ICF-accredited training programs, coaches can continue their growth and success by pursuing advanced credentials and becoming recognized experts in the coaching field.
ICF Credentialed Coaches must maintain liability insurance.
One of the primary reasons why commercial and government clients prefer ICF-credentialed coaches is that they must maintain liability insurance. Liability insurance helps protect both the client and the coach from any liabilities incurred on the job. The International Coaching Federation (ICF) offers affordable insurance for its coaching credential holders, ensuring their clients are always protected.
Earning an ICF credential requires taking part in an accredited training program, which provides coaches with a foundation of knowledge and best practices. This accreditation also enables coaches to take advantage of independent contracting opportunities, allowing them to work as independent business owners. With the help of ICF-approved liability insurance, ICF-credentialed coaches can assure their clients that they are fully covered in case of any incident.
The ICF Brand is Trusted Worldwide.
The International Coaching Federation (ICF) is a globally recognized accreditation body that sets the standards for the coaching profession. Established in 1995, the ICF has grown to include more than 25,000 members in over 135 countries. Training, resources, exams, and more are available in 10 languages, including English, Simplified Chinese, French, and Spanish.
Getting ICF credentialed is a must for independent contractors looking to become professional coaches. ICF coaching credentials demonstrate that the coach has taken an accredited training program and is knowledgeable and experienced in coaching. Obtaining a coaching credential from the ICF provides coaches with increased job security and opens the door to more independent contracting opportunities.
The ICF brand is trusted worldwide as a leader in professional coaching, setting the highest standards for ethical and practical practice. With their commitment to ongoing education and development, ICF-credentialed coaches will continue impacting the coaching world.
How My ICF Credential Attracts Clients.
An International Coaching Federation (ICF) credential is valuable for attracting more paid coaching opportunities. As an Associate Certified Coach (ACC), I have found that potential clients often seek out ICF-credentialed coaches due to their trust in the Gold Standard of coaching that the ICF provides. After completing an accredited training program and being accepted into the ICF credentialing process, I am now listed in the ICF credentialed coach directory and on my website, LinkedIn, and other social media platforms.
I have been contacted for independent contracting opportunities from primarily commercial entities seeking leadership development and professional development coaching. My ICF credential has enabled me to attract more clients, and I am confident that I adhere to the highest standards of ethics, best practices, and core competencies. The ACC designation has opened new doors for me, increasing earnings estimated at around $25,000.
The ICF credential is not only a symbol of excellence for my clients but for myself as well. It is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and commitment that I put in to earn my coaching credential. Any professional looking to expand their business or career should consider taking steps to obtain an ICF credential.
Rolande S. Sumner, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Rolande S. Sumner is a retired US Army veteran and the CEO & Founder of Life After Service Transitional Coaching LLC®. Rolande served her country in the United States Army National Guard from 1995 to 2015. During her career, she was an Administrative Clerk, Heavy Vehicle Operator, and Human Resources Manager. She served as both a traditional National Guard Soldier and as an Active Guard Reserve Soldier. During her military tenure, Rolande received multiple honours: Afghanistan Campaign Medal, NATO Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Combat Action Badge, and the Army Accommodation Medal.
