In one of my previous posts, I talked about how coaching is more than just a buzzword; it requires real expertise, experience, and the ability to create meaningful change. But let’s go a step further. If you’re serious about personal or professional growth, how do you actually find the right coach? How do you separate real coaching from just hype?
The truth is, that coaching has become a crowded space. There’s no shortage of people offering programs, masterminds, and mentorships, all promising to help you reach the next level. But while some of these coaches are truly qualified, many are just marketing experts selling inspiration without substance.
So, let’s break it down. Here’s how to identify a coach who can truly help you achieve results.
Red Flags: When Coaching is Just Empty Motivation
If you’ve ever worked with a coach and left feeling like you got a pep talk instead of a strategy, you’re not alone. A lot of people fall into the trap of signing up for coaching that sounds good but lacks real impact. Here are a few signs that a coach may not be the right fit:
No Clear Framework or Methodology: If a coach can’t explain how they guide clients through transformation, they may be making it up as they go. Real coaches use structured models, proven techniques, and research-backed strategies.
One-Size-Fits-All Advice: Effective coaching is personalized. If all you hear are generic mindset tips without a strategy tailored to your unique challenges, you’re not getting the depth of support you need.
More Hype Than Substance: Does the coach spend more time promoting their success than helping you define yours? True coaching is about you, not their highlight reel.
No Real Credentials or Experience: Coaching isn’t just about being a good motivator. Look for someone with formal training in coaching, psychology, business, leadership, or a related field.
No Accountability or Measurable Progress: Great coaching isn’t just about feeling good at the moment, it’s about tracking real progress. If there’s no structure for measuring your growth, it’s hard to know if you’re improving.
What REAL Coaching Looks Like
A great coach doesn’t just tell you what you want to hear, they guide you through a real transformation. Here’s what to look for when choosing the right coach for you:
They Have a Proven Framework: The best coaches follow structured methodologies grounded in research, psychology, and industry expertise. They use tools like goal-setting frameworks, behavioral analysis, and performance coaching strategies.
They Adapt Their Approach to Your Needs: Effective coaching is NOT cookie-cutter. A great coach will listen, assess your unique challenges, and create a plan specifically for you.
Do They Have Real Experience in Their Field: Leadership Coaching? Find someone who has led. Want business coaching? Work with someone who has run a business. A great coach combines education and lived experience.
They Hold You Accountable: Transformation requires action. A good coach won’t just cheer you on they’ll challenge you, push you, and keep you accountable for the goals you set.
They Offer More Than Motivation; They Offer Strategy: Mindset matters, but alone, it’s not enough. A great coach gives you actionable tools, step-by-step plans, and clear strategies that help you navigate challenges and move forward.
The Kalm Effect: Coaching That Creates Real Change
At The Kalm Effect, I don’t just coach from theory I coach from experience. With a Doctorate in Industrial-Organizational Psychology and over 30 years of leadership and coaching expertise, I help individuals and organizations build resilience, improve leadership, and navigate career growth with real, proven strategies.
My coaching isn’t about hype. It’s about results. If you’re ready for coaching that works, let’s connect.
Let’s move beyond motivation and create real transformation. Your growth starts today.
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