1) Does the Coach have specialized training?

There are some certification programs that train people to be coaches but there is not any formal degree in Coaching. While anyone can learn to help others, qualified coaches who can effectively help people change have specialized training in the fields surrounding Human Behavior. Becoming knowledgeable about Learning Theories and Human Perception/Behavior allow the coach to understand your personal level of motivation and to customize a program that will fit your personality and lifestyle.

Renee Kennedy-Edwards from Coaching 4 Success, Inc. holds a Masters of Science degree in Educational Psychology and certification in Counseling and Corporate Consulting. Her expertise in these fields allows her to effectively work with individuals and groups according to their unique learning styles while applying the theories of Learning, Motivation and Human Needs.

2) Does the Coach Develop His/Her Material?

Some coaching firms are franchised businesses sold to coaches that are delivered as a package complete with all training & workshop material. This results in a “cookie cutter” approach in assisting people with their individualized needs and desires. What will work for one person does not always work for another.

At Coaching 4 Success, Inc. the material for workshops and coaching is developed by Renee Kennedy-Edwards, MS. Her background in Educational Psychology assists her in creating material that is relevant to the clients’ needs and goals.

3) Does the Coach Have Experience in Helping Others Change and Achieve Goals?

Qualified coaches have years of experience in assisting others with goal development and goal attainment. Coaching goes beyond checking on the progress of a client’s goal. It is an intricate process of understanding the needs and desires of the client while developing goals in a realistic manner that will best accommodate the client’s lifestyle and learning style. Furthermore, clients often have subconscious barriers to their own success that is not easily observed. Qualified coaches who have a background in Counseling or Psychotherapy are able to work through these invisible barriers that can block a client from reaching his or her full potential.

Renee Kennedy-Edwards, MS has been helping people change since 1995 when she worked as a Counselor and Psychotherapist assisting clients in changing negative habits and perceptions and helping them learn how to effectively deal with personal and work challenges that can impede their future success.

4) Is the Coach qualified to handle all situations, including critical ones?

Qualified Coaches know their limits and will refer or outsource to other professionals when they are not experienced enough to assist the client in a particular situation. It is dangerous to work with a Coach who does not follow this practice, especially in critical cases. At times, coaching may probe at a deeper level to uncover hidden barriers and sometimes issues may arise that need to be addressed by a specialized professional. For instance, in some cases, a person’s consistent pattern in lack of follow-through with goals or a consistent negative attitude may signify the need for a medical or mental health professional to assist the client. If this is not addressed, the unqualified Coach may ignore this issue due to their level of discomfort in dealing with it or the unqualified Coach may not recognize the signs and/or the issue due to his/her lack of experience and training.

Renee Kennedy-Edwards, MS understands the importance in working from this perspective and knows when it is appropriate to refer a client outside her office. Furthermore, she does not conduct therapy and is clear with the client the differences between therapy and coaching.

5) Does the Coach come from a credible company with a solid reputation?

Due to the lack of regulations in the field of Coaching, it is important to look at the reputation of the company and/or individual. Making sure the Coach works from a credible contract ensures that you are entering into a professional relationship. Furthermore, fees and expectations should be clearly stated in the contract so that you are fully aware of the policies.

Coaching 4 Success, Inc. has a solid reputation in helping people and businesses move forward and reach their goals. We have over 35 years combined experience in coaching, training and operating businesses.

6) Does the Coach adhere to protecting the rights of the client by respecting confidentiality?

In Counseling, it is required by law to adhere to a Code of Ethics and to respect confidentiality of the client. Since there aren’t any regulations for Coaching, Coaches are not required to follow these rules. It is your right to ask questions and find out the Coach’s protocol on these issues.

Renee Kennedy-Edwards, MS, adheres to a Code of Ethics and respects the confidentiality of the client. The company prides itself on its professionalism and integrity in working with people and businesses.

7) Should I hire a Coach that specializes in my line of work?

A common myth is that hiring a Coach that specializes in a certain industry (attorneys, doctors, banks, etc.) will be more effective than hiring one outside the industry because they understand the certain practices of that particular business. While it may be helpful that the Coach understand the idiosyncrasies of that specific business, it isn’t necessary in order to help the people in the business succeed and attain their goals. It’s the same issue in therapy. Does a cancer patient need to see a Therapist who also has cancer in order to receive qualified help? What is more relevant to look for in hiring a Coach is her/his experience and education in helping people move from their obstacles and challenges and assisting them in improving their situations and attaining their goals.

8) Does the Coach have the training and experience to remain objective to my needs and desires?

With her advanced degree and experience in helping people change, Renee Kennedy-Edwards, MS, is able to remain objective in moving the client towards his/her goals, just as in therapy. Remaining objective to the client does not come automatically. It is taught in advanced schools of training and takes practice in doing it effectively. Unqualified Coaches lack this type of training and may subconsciously or consciously push the client in the direction of their own agenda and not in the client’s best interest.

9) Does the Coach have adequate training and experience to assist me in my business?

Many professionals from multiple industries help businesses succeed. Business Consultants, Marketing Professionals, Accountants, Attorneys, etc. are all qualified to help you and your business. It is important to look for education, training and experience of the professional in regards to what you are looking to achieve.

Renee Kennedy-Edwards, MS has the experience in owning and running a counseling practice and a consulting firm. Furthermore, she is certified in corporate consulting and has a background in business consulting and training. She has also developed and taught business classes at the college level before developing her own workshops with Coaching 4 Success, Inc.