The Introduction to Coaching course introduces aspirant coaches (or existing coaches looking for a refresher), to the definitions, challenges, competencies, ethics, and basic processes in the coaching profession. Lessons are structured to improve flow, thinking and conceptual understanding. Some concepts are further explained by linking to readings while others are deferred to later courses which perform a deep dive into specific topics. Some of the readings will offer different or even conflicting viewpoints. As this is a foundational course, it contains essential material and insights for coaches who wish to progress further.
After completing the Introduction to Coaching course, the coach will have:
- A good understanding of the basic definitions, concepts, competencies and processes in coaching.
- Understand the benefits and challenges of coaching.
- Identify coaching values and ethical practice.
- Identify opportunities for coaching in a business environment.
- Understand the nature of the relationships that must be managed in a coaching intervention and coaching conversations.
Included in the course are reading material, articles from our blog, a final test and a certificate of completion. The course will be updated regularly with new insights into the subject matter.
The course comprises 5 lessons with 31 topics and should take 16 hours.
- Lesson 1: What is Coaching?
- Origins and Background of Coaching
- Types of Coaching
- Definitions of Coaching
- Coaching Boundaries
- What Coaching is not!
- Where is Coaching Applied?
- Benefits of Coaching
- Why People become Coaches
- Unique challenges faced by Coaches
- Selecting Coaches
- Qualities of a Good Coach
- Knowing Yourself as a Coach
- Coaching Roles
- Coaching Styles
- Principles and Philosophies of Professional Coaching
- What can go wrong with Coaching
- Lesson 2: Coaching Competencies
- The Coaching Competency Framework
- Core Coaching Competencies
- Lesson 3: Coaching Ethics
- Ethical Guidelines & Standards
- Confidentiality
- IMCSA Code of Ethics
- Lesson 4: The Coaching Process
- What is a Coaching Process?
- Purpose of a Coaching Process
- Elements of the Coaching Process
- A Typical Coaching Process
- Lesson 5: The Coaching Conversation
- Creating the right Environment
- Concepts from “Time to Think”
- Questioning Techniques
- Influencing with Integrity
- Giving & Receiving Feedback
- Things to Avoid