The Institute of Applied Coaching Certification Guide
Welcome to The Institute of Applied Coaching! Our certification program is meticulously designed to equip you with the practical skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the coaching profession. This comprehensive guide outlines the certification process, ensuring you understand each step towards becoming a certified coach with us.
Table of Contents
1. Certification Overview
2. Eligibility Criteria
3. Certification Pathway
• 1. Application and Enrollment
• 2. Training Program
• 3. Coaching Practice
• 4. Coaching Call Recording and Review
• 5. Assessment and Evaluation
• 6. Certification Award
4. Certification Requirements
• Training Hours
• Coaching Hours
• Quality Standards
5. Ongoing Requirements
• Continuing Education
• Renewal Process
6. Support and Resources
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
8. Contact Information
Certification Overview
Our certification program is designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world coaching practice. By combining extensive training with practical coaching experience, we ensure that our certified coaches are well-prepared to make a meaningful impact.
Key Components:
• Comprehensive Training: Over 100 hours of structured training covering essential coaching methodologies, business development, and personal growth.
• Practical Experience: Minimum of 10 hours of recorded coaching calls with real clients, evaluated to ensure excellence.
• Quality Assurance: Rigorous review process to maintain high standards and uphold our core values.
Eligibility Criteria
To enroll in our certification program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
• Educational Background: While a specific degree is not required, a background in psychology, human resources, business, or related fields is advantageous.
• Commitment: Willingness to dedicate the necessary time and effort to complete the training and coaching requirements.
• Ethical Standards: Adherence to our ethical guidelines and core values, including authenticity, deep listening, and humility.
Certification Pathway
1. Application and Enrollment
Step 1: Submit Application
• Complete the online application form available on our website.
• Provide details about your background, coaching experience, and reasons for seeking certification.
Step 2: Application Review
• Our admissions team will review your application to ensure eligibility.
• You may be invited for an interview to discuss your goals and suitability for the program.
Step 3: Enrollment Confirmation
• Upon approval, you will receive an enrollment package with detailed information about the program structure, schedule, and next steps.
2. Training Program
Overview:
• Duration: Approximately 6-12 months, depending on your pace.
• Format: Combination of online modules, live webinars, interactive workshops, and self-paced study.
Core Training Areas:
1. Understanding the Client’s Worldview
• Explore how clients perceive their world and the factors influencing their perspectives.
• Techniques to align coaching strategies with the client’s unique worldview.
2. Creating Urgency for Change
• Methods to help clients recognize the need for change.
• Strategies to motivate clients to take immediate and sustained action.
3. Hacking Habits of Destruction
• Identify and dismantle negative habits that hinder client progress.
• Implementing effective techniques to replace destructive habits with positive ones.
4. Elevating Clients Above the Line
• Techniques to help clients operate from a place of empowerment and responsibility.
• Encouraging clients to stay above reactive behaviors and maintain a proactive mindset.
5. Create or Discover Choices for Growth
• Facilitating the identification of new opportunities and pathways for client development.
• Empowering clients to make informed and strategic choices for their growth.
6. Habits of Success: Making Change Stick
• Establishing lasting habits that support continuous improvement and success.
• Tools and strategies to ensure that positive changes are maintained over time.
7. The Framework of a Coaching Session
• Structuring effective coaching sessions for maximum impact.
• Balancing goal-setting, action planning, and reflective practices within sessions.
Assessment:
• Quizzes and assignments at the end of each module.
• Participation in live sessions and workshops.
3. Coaching Practice
Objective:
• Gain hands-on experience by conducting real coaching sessions with clients.
Requirements:
• Total Hours: Complete at least 10 hours of coaching calls.
• Client Engagement: Work with diverse clients to apply various coaching techniques.
• Documentation: Record each coaching session for review and evaluation.
Support:
• Access to a network of mentors and peer coaches for guidance.
• Opportunities to observe and learn from experienced coaches.
4. Coaching Call Recording and Review
Process:
1. Recording Sessions:
• Each coaching session must be recorded using approved platforms.
• Ensure high-quality audio and clear communication during recordings.
2. Submission:
• Upload recordings to our secure platform for review.
• Provide a brief summary and reflection for each session.
3. Evaluation:
• Experienced coaches will review your recordings based on predefined criteria.
• Criteria include adherence to coaching principles, effectiveness of techniques, and client satisfaction.
4. Rating:
• Each session is rated on a 5-star scale.
• To meet certification standards, all recorded sessions must receive a minimum of 5 stars.
5. Feedback:
• Receive detailed feedback to identify strengths and areas for improvement.
• Utilize feedback to enhance your coaching skills.
5. Assessment and Evaluation
Comprehensive Evaluation:
• Training Completion: Verify that all 100+ training hours have been successfully completed.
• Coaching Hours: Confirm that the required 10 hours of coaching practice have been fulfilled.
• Quality Standards: Ensure all coaching calls meet the 5-star rating requirement.
Final Assessment:
• Written Examination: Test your understanding of coaching theories and methodologies.
• Practical Examination: Conduct a live coaching session evaluated by a panel of certified coaches.
• Portfolio Submission: Compile your training records, coaching hours, and feedback into a professional portfolio.
6. Certification Award
Upon successful completion of all requirements:
• Receive an official certification from The Institute of Applied Coaching.
• Gain access to exclusive member benefits, including advanced training modules, networking events, and ongoing support.
Certification Levels:
• Certified Applied Coach (CAC): Basic certification upon meeting all standard requirements.
• Advanced Certified Applied Coach (ACAC): Additional recognition for coaches who exceed standard requirements and demonstrate exceptional skill.
Certification Requirements
Training Hours
• Total Training: Complete over 100 hours of structured training.
• Modules Covered: Understanding the Client’s Worldview, Creating Urgency for Change, Hacking Habits of Destruction, Elevating Clients Above the Line, Create or Discover Choices for Growth, Habits of Success: Making Change Stick, The Framework of a Coaching Session.
• Completion: Each module must be completed with a minimum grade as specified in the program guidelines.
Coaching Hours
• Minimum Coaching Practice: Conduct and record at least 10 hours of coaching sessions.
• Client Diversity: Engage with a variety of clients to demonstrate versatility.
• Session Quality: All sessions must receive a 5-star rating based on our evaluation criteria.
Quality Standards
• Adherence to Core Values: Demonstrate creativity, authenticity, courage, humility, and deep listening in all coaching interactions.
• Professionalism: Maintain high ethical standards and confidentiality with clients.
• Continuous Improvement: Show commitment to personal and professional growth through feedback and self-reflection.
Ongoing Requirements
Continuing Education
To maintain your certification, you must engage in ongoing professional development:
• Annual Training Hours: Complete a minimum of 20 hours of continuing education each year.
• Topics: Advanced coaching techniques, new methodologies, business development, personal growth, etc.
• Formats: Webinars, workshops, conferences, online courses, and peer learning sessions.
Renewal Process
Frequency: Certification must be renewed annually.
Steps:
1. Submit Continuing Education Records:
• Provide proof of completed continuing education hours.
2. Renewal Fee:
• Pay the annual certification renewal fee.
3. Update Personal Information:
• Ensure your contact details and professional information are current.
4. Adhere to Ethical Standards:
• Confirm ongoing commitment to our core values and ethical guidelines.
Consequences of Non-Renewal:
• Certification status becomes inactive.
• Limited access to member benefits and resources.
• Opportunity to reinstate certification upon meeting renewal requirements.
Support and Resources
We are committed to supporting you throughout your certification journey and beyond. Here’s how we can assist you:
Mentorship Program
• Pairing with Experienced Coaches: Receive guidance from seasoned professionals.
• Regular Check-ins: Schedule regular meetings to discuss progress and challenges.
• Personalized Feedback: Obtain tailored advice to enhance your coaching practice.
Resource Library
• Training Materials: Access to comprehensive training documents, videos, and readings.
• Tools and Templates: Utilize practical tools for client management, session planning, and business development.
• Research and Insights: Stay updated with the latest trends and studies in the coaching industry.
Community Support
• Peer Network: Connect with fellow coaches for collaboration and support.
• Discussion Forums: Participate in online forums to share experiences and exchange ideas.
• Events and Webinars: Attend exclusive events to learn from experts and expand your network.
Technical Support
• Platform Assistance: Get help with using our online platforms for training and coaching session submissions.
• Recording Tools: Access guidelines and support for recording high-quality coaching sessions.
• Troubleshooting: Receive prompt assistance for any technical issues encountered.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How long does the certification process take?
• A: Typically, the process takes between 6 to 12 months, depending on your pace and schedule.
Q2: Can I retake a coaching session review if I don’t receive a 5-star rating?
• A: Yes, you can retake the session after addressing the feedback provided. Continuous improvement is encouraged.
Q3: Do I need to have prior coaching experience to apply?
• A: While prior experience is beneficial, it is not mandatory. Our program supports both new and aspiring coaches.
Q4: Is the training program fully online?
• A: Yes, our training program is primarily online, offering flexibility to accommodate your schedule.
Q5: What types of coaching specialties can I pursue?
• A: You can specialize in various areas such as leadership coaching, personal development, mindfulness coaching, and more.
Q6: Are there any additional costs besides the enrollment fee?
• A: The primary costs include enrollment and annual renewal fees. Additional costs may apply for specialized workshops or advanced courses.
Q7: What happens after I become certified?
• A: You gain access to exclusive member benefits, ongoing support, advanced training opportunities, and the ability to join our professional network.