Professional Coaching FAQ
Are there professional standards for the coaching industry?
Yes, there is a code of ethics, core competencies, accreditation processes and an International Coach Federation (industry association) that promotes the advancement of coaches. To learn more about this, click here: Coach Federation
Also visit the Center for Credentialing and Eduction to learn more about the standards and requirements for Board Certified Coaches.
How will I know you are the right coach for me?
During our initial conversations and/or discovery session, together we will identify if this is an appropriate fit. So, before you say "yes", you will have a sample of what the coaching experience will be like. Until then, click on my BIO page to learn more about me and my approach in coaching.
How do I get started in the coaching process?
If you are interested in beginning the coaching process, please contact me via email so we can schedule our initial discovery session to further explore the details of the coaching relationship.
What can I expect from you as my coach?
- Be a partner in bringing out the best, the deepest, and the truest in you;
- Provide safety, encouragement and support; an environment in which you can relax and explore;
- Respect the confidentiality of the agreements we make;
- Expand your view of what is possible and promote discovery of new insights;
- Give you input, straight feedback and operate as a sounding board;
- Listen carefully to what you say and ask questions that increase awareness;
- Be an on-going resource for you in accomplishing your intentions.
Also review this document for some additional information: How I Coach Clients
What if I sign up for this and decide it is not right for me? Do you have a money back guarantee?
Yes, I call it my "participate" guarantee. Within the first month of our relationship if you show up to the calls and participate fully in the coaching process, you can simply let me know this is not working for you and I will completely refund your investment. To honor the coaching agreement and the coaching process, you must participate. (If you do not show up for your coaching sessions, do not do the follow up work, etc, then we will not refund your investment.)
SECURITY & CONFIDENTIALITY
Is this client center and my data secured and safe?
Yes! In fact, there are 3 levels of security: provided to keep your data safe and confidential:
- Username and password protected;
- Verisign Security Certificate protects your data on this site;
- Secured pages (https://)
Is my information confidential?
Yes. This site is protected by a username/password system. You are the only one that has access to your information.
ADDITIONAL SUPPORT
Can I contact you in-between our scheduled coaching sessions?
Yes! In the event that you would like support on something that comes up in between our meetings, you can post an inquiry to the Client Log and we can have "just in time" coaching via your Private Client Website.
ACCESSING THE PRIVATE CLIENT AREA
What is the "Register Now" link and when would I use it?
If you are interested in becoming a client or beginning the coaching process, you can create your own account to access the private client area. When you "register" I will be notified that your account has been created and will need to activate your account. This could take up to 24 hours.
How do I access your private client area and how do I log in?
Click on the Login link in the navigational menu of the website. Then enter the username and password that has been assigned to you. Don't have login information yet? Contact me so we can get an account created for you.
I have a password that I use for most of my on-line accounts. Can I change the password you assigned to me?
Yes. You will need to log in initially using the password I assigned to you. Once you log in, you can change your password at any time in your Client Profile page, that you find under the FORMS tab.
What if I forget or lose my password and login information?
If you simply forgot your password, you can still go to the Login page by clicking the Login link. Click on the blue link "forgot password" to the right of the "Login" button and, in the new "Forgot Password" window, enter your username and click on the "Continue" button. You will receive an email shortly with your password included.
If you misplaced both your username and password, contact me and I will forward you your information.
I’m trying to log in, but it will not accept my username or password, what do I do?
Remember that the login information is case sensitive, so enter it exactly like it was given to you. Also, type in your login credentials and DO NOT copy/paste it, as this procedure can include empty spaces, which count in a password, thus rendering incorrect. Again, if you do not remember your login credentials, you can contact me via email and I'll forward them to you.
FORMS, DOCUMENTS AND RESOURCES AVAILABLE
What makes up a "Welcome Packet" and what do I do with this?
A welcome packet consists of some basic forms, documents and resources that will help to get us started in the coaching process. By completing the information in the welcome packet, you are providing me with some helpful information, so that I know best how to support you, guide you and work together with you. It includes a "Client Profile" form, a "Goals and Intentions" form and also a "Discovery / Foundations" form. You will also find our coaching agreement located in this packet. It is customary for you to complete these items prior to our initial coaching session together.
Please take a look at this document, which will help you get the most out of your coaching experience: Tips for Getting the Most Out of Coaching
SCHEDULING/RESCHEDULING APPOINTMENTS
What if I need to reschedule my appointment?
If you need to reschedule your appointment, please email me at Annie@AKACoachAndCompany.com. Please give me at least a 24-hour notice; otherwise I do not make up missed sessions. If you have an emergency we will work around it.
PAYING FOR SERVICES
How do I easily make my investment for services?
Each month you'll receive an invoice from my practice letting you know the amount committed to for that month. You can log in to the private client area, click on the Payments Menu and you will see any outstanding balances due at that time. If you prefer to pay by check, please contact me.
What are the various methods of payment I can use to pay for my investment?
We use Pay Pal for your service investment. You can pay by credit card (no Pay Pal account needed) or by direct debit from a bank account (you do need a Pay Pal account for this). If you prefer to pay by check or another method, please contact me.