How Essential Is it to Earn an ICF Credential?
As the coaching industry continues to grow, many coaches are considering whether obtaining an ICF credential is essential for their practice. While opinions on the matter may vary, it’s becoming increasingly beneficial for coaches to obtain this certification.
The International Coaching Federation (ICF) is a reputable organization that offers coaching certifications at different levels, including the Associated Certified Coach (ACC), Professional Certified Coach (PCC), and Master Certified Coach (MCC). Obtaining an ICF credential is not required, but there are several compelling reasons why coaches should consider it.
First and foremost, an ICF credential sets you apart and demonstrates your dedication to the coaching profession. It also vastly improves your skills and knowledge, ultimately benefiting your clients. After earning his PCC credential, one of my students reported that his clients were “seeing more shifts” and reporting “better results” than ever before. He said, “The difference is like night and day! I feel confident that it was learning how to do ’real coaching’ during the process of preparing for my ICF credential that made the difference.”
Also, a credential can enhance your credibility and confidence as a coach. Knowing you have the necessary skills to help your clients achieve their goals will increase your success rate and lead to more repeat business and referrals.
Furthermore, as more third-party coaching organizations like BetterUp, Bravely, and Torch emerge, they increasingly ask for ICF credentials from their coaches. Therefore, having an ICF credential can increase your opportunities to work with such organizations and expand your coaching practice.
Another student sent this in a recent email: “I just want to take the chance also to tell you about the latest developments. After getting my ACC, I started having offers from some coaching companies. I’m working with Boon Health, and I’ve also made it into a Better Up program which could become a job opportunity with them! I’m so excited! Also, I’m currently going through a selection process with another company. It feels good to have so many options and see that all the hard work paid off in the end.”
In my personal experience as an entrepreneur, doing the work to earn my MCC has opened doors that I would have never had access to. Founding my business Powerhouse Coaching, writing books on coaching, and being recruited to train coaches in China are all a direct result of my being an ICF Master Certified Coach!
Of course, some coaches may not see the value in obtaining an ICF credential. However, by not having one, they may miss out on important skill-building, increased client success, employment opportunities, and entrepreneurial advancement. While it may not yet be a requirement for coaching, it can certainly be an advantage in the industry.
In summary, earning an ICF credential ultimately benefits coaches, their clients, and the profession itself. But at the very least, obtaining an ICF credential will demonstrate your commitment to excellence and coaching. And that is something everyone can take to the bank!
Jennifer Powers, MCC
Jennifer Powers, MCC, is founder of Powerhouse Coaching. Powerhouse Coaching specializes in leading 10-hour group mentor coaching classes for coaches wanting to attain or renew their ACC, PCC, or MCC credential from the International Coaching Federation (ICF). Powerhouse Coaching also offers 75-hour ICF accredited Level 3 courses to coaches wanting to move from PCC to MCC. Professional coaches can also join the Powerhouse Coaching Club, which features skill building and business building for an international community of coaches. Learn more at www.phcoach.com.
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