Exploring Career Paths in Coaching: What Lies Ahead

By Jill Aronoff, CPIC, PCC

Below is a compressive list of what to expect as you navigate your coaching career. Whether you envision yourself as an internal coach within an organization, collaborating with a third-party coaching hub, or venturing out as an independent solopreneur, there's a path that aligns with your ambitions.
 
According to the 2023 International Coaching Federation (ICF) Global Coaching Study, the coaching industry experienced significant growth in 2022, with a staggering 109,200 coach practitioners worldwide. Moreover, the study reported an average annual revenue/income of $52,800 for coaches in 2022.
 
Almost all coach practitioners (93%) offer services in addition to coaching. Most frequently, coaches also offer consulting (59%), training (58%), and/or facilitation services (55%). On average, coach practitioners offer almost three (2.8) services in addition to coaching. 
 
So where do you go from here? Let’s look at the different roads to take in coaching. 
 
Internal Coaching
 
Joining an organization as an in-house coach presents numerous advantages, including a competitive salary, access to health insurance, and other benefits. For those hesitant about the uncertainties of self-employment, this route offers stability and security. 
 
Becoming an internal coach also provides invaluable opportunities for training and hands-on client experience – all while receiving a steady income. Some niches that commonly align with internal coaching include:

1. Leadership Coach
2. Sales Coach
3. Career Coach
4. Nutrition Coach
5. Health and Wellness Coach
6. Fitness Coach

 
Finding a job as an internal coach can be facilitated through various channels, including online job platforms and educational institutions. Here are some avenues to explore:

1. Online Job Platforms: Websites like Google, Indeed, Monster and LinkedIn are excellent resources for discovering internal coaching opportunities. Utilize their search filters to narrow down your options based on location, industry, and job type.
2. Company Websites: Many organizations advertise internal coaching positions directly on their websites. Keep an eye on the careers or job opportunities section of companies you're interested in working for.
3. Networking: Tap into your professional network to uncover hidden job opportunities. Attend industry events, join relevant online communities, and reach out to colleagues or mentors for advice and referrals.
4. Educational Institutions: Universities, community colleges, and other educational institutions frequently hire career coaches to assist students and alumni with their career development.

 
When considering coaching jobs, it's helpful to recognize two primary categories: those within organizations serving their internal employees and those in organizations catering to external clients. Companies often seek coaches who have undergone professional training and hold certifications, such as those offered by the International Coaching Federation (ICF).
 
Self-Employed Coach
 
While being a solopreneur entails certain risks, it also offers a plethora of benefits, starting with flexibility. As a solopreneur, you have the freedom to set your own schedule and work at your own pace. Whether you prefer to work from the comfort of your home, while traveling, or from any location that suits your lifestyle, the choice is yours.
 
As a solopreneur, you have the autonomy to select your clients and target audience according to your preferences and expertise. This allows you to work with individuals who align with your values and vision, fostering more meaningful and fulfilling professional relationships.
 
As a solopreneur, you retain complete creative control over your business. You have the freedom to define your business priorities, set goals, and determine the direction of your enterprise. This level of autonomy empowers you to pursue your passions, experiment with innovative ideas, and shape the outcomes of your endeavors according to your vision.
 
If you're considering venturing into the realm of solopreneurship but aren't sure how to get started, we're here to help. Our specialized business and marketing training course is designed to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to take your coaching business to the next level. 
 
Coaching Hubs 
 
Working for third-party companies offers a unique blend of advantages, combining aspects of both traditional employment and entrepreneurship. These companies serve as large coaching hubs, connecting coaches with clients while operating on a contract basis (often as a 1099 contractor). Here are some benefits associated with working for third-party coaching organizations:

1. Client Acquisition: One of the primary benefits of working for third-party companies is that you don't have to find clients on your own. These organizations handle the process of finding and acquiring clients, allowing you to focus solely on delivering high-quality coaching services.
2. Coaching Platforms:  Many third-party coaching companies provide coaching platforms equipped with a variety of tools and resources to support your coaching practice. These platforms may include features such as client assessments (e.g., 360-degree feedback, strength reports), scheduling tools, and communication channels to facilitate client-coach interactions.
3. Resources: Third-party coaching organizations often offer access to a vast library of resources, including articles, videos and assessments. These resources can help you stay connected to your clients and help foster client growth. 
4. Data Management: Often these organizations offer secure platforms for storing client notes, session recordings and other confidential information.
5. Flexibility: Working for a coaching hub often allows for a degree of schedule flexibility. In many cases, you have the freedom to submit the number of hours you wish to work, along with your preferred schedule.

 
Here are a few companies that are a great place to start:

• Arootah - https://arootah.com/careers/
• BetterUp - https://www.betterup.com/about-us/become-a-coach
• CoachHub - https://www.coachhub.com/for-coaches/
• EZRA - https://helloezra.com/become-a-coach
• Mindgym - https://themindgym.com/about-us/our-coaches
• Mindbloom - https://www.mindbloom.com/careers

 
What you need to be competitive:

• Enrolling in a reputable coach training program is crucial. These programs offer comprehensive training in coaching frameworks, methodologies, and a plethora of coaching tools and techniques. Additionally, you'll gain hands-on experience and learn about ethical considerations in coaching practice. 
• Get credentialed. Obtaining credentials is highly beneficial for establishing credibility and demonstrating your competence as a coach. The International Coaching Federation (ICF) is widely regarded as the gold standard in coaching accreditation. Pursuing an ICF credential not only enhances your professional credibility but also opens up opportunities, as many employers and larger companies require or prefer coaches with ICF credentials. Holding an ICF credential signifies your commitment to adhering to high ethical standards and continuous professional development, making you a more competitive candidate in the coaching marketplace.

 
Are you ready to embark on your coaching journey? 
 
Begin with our Coach Training 101 FREE home study course. It serves as the perfect starting point for aspiring coaches like yourself. In this comprehensive program, you'll delve into the fundamentals of coaching, explore various training options available to you, and gain insights into current industry trends shaping the coaching landscape.
 
Whether you're new to coaching or seeking to enhance your existing skills, our Coach Training 101 course provides invaluable knowledge and resources to kickstart your journey towards becoming a successful coach. Sign up today to take the first step towards realizing your coaching aspirations.
 
More information:

• Podcast: The 3 Titles, Types and Styles of Coaching
• Coaching Fundamentals
• LEVEL ONE - Foundations
• LEVEL TWO - CPIC

 

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