Walking the Walk: Why Successful Coaches Must Practice What They Preach

In order to demand the level of fees that today's successful coaches command, and to build and maintain a coaching practice that will exceed your expectations, credibility is the #1 currency that you must possess — and it should be cultivated at every opportunity. My 25 years as a successful career coach have shown me why you, as a coach, must "walk the walk" and mirror every aspect of your coaching philosophy in your own practice, actions, and life, if you are to thrive in the long run.

Don't Be Cheap

When you are asking your well-heeled clients to pay hundreds or thousands of dollars for your coaching services, displaying an upscale, polished aura on your part is essential. Whether it is the look of your website, your headshot, your office environment or the virtual coaching studio you inhabit — you must project the sterling quality and image that will attract and retain the best clientele.

Invest in Yourself

In career coaching, we routinely advise our professional clients to research and pay for continuing education, training sessions, seminars, and industry certifications. Your clients will most fully embrace your advice if you do the same. Post your degrees, certifications, and awards prominently, and highlight your ongoing professional development in your blogs, newsletters, and client discussions.

Take Care of Your Health

Nearly any coach will remind clients that their health is paramount. Yet there are still coaches who do not watch their weight, put off medical examinations, or fail to maintain a healthy work/life balance. Your health and vibrancy is an essential component of your coaching practice and should be prioritised. You cannot pour from an empty cup.

Watch Your Attitude

Coaches who bemoan difficult clients or constantly complain about various aspects of their practice will find it difficult to grow professionally or personally. I coach my clients to maintain an upbeat, positive approach to their career exploration — and coaches must do exactly the same. Gratitude and positivity are not just good advice; they are essential professional habits.

Get a Coach

Yes, even coaches need coaches. When pitching a prospective client on the ROI and value of my coaching services, I often refer to elite athletes who still pay for private coaches despite having access to entire team coaching staffs. Even at the top of your game, an outside perspective accelerates growth. Getting coached is not a sign of weakness — it's the hallmark of a true professional.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

Globally, information technology is the fastest growing career. The second fastest growing is coaching. But the rising wave of coaching can become a tsunami that destroys your practice. The greatest existential threat to the coaching industry is the challenge of untrained and inept coaches. Do everything within your power to separate yourself from the pretenders by walking the walk and practising what you preach — and you will succeed.