ICF is a globally recognized name in the coaching world. Anyone remotely connected to the professional coaching profession would have known about ICF. And all the aspiring coaches have a dilemma as to what ICF is, why ICF does ICF Certification matter, and many more questions. Whether you want to become a Life Coach, Business Coach, or a Team Coach, ICF Credential is best to practice as a certified coach. Let’s read more about ICF Credentialing.
What is ICF in coaching world?
International Coach Federation abbreviated as ICF is a globally renowned non-profit organization that offers independent professional coaching certification and credentialing to a practicing coach. The ICF is dedicated to setting the highest standards of quality in training and upholding the coaching profession when offering certificates to skilled and trained coaches.
The ICF Credentialing acts as validation that the coach has undergone proper training and has imbibed the core competencies and acquired experience to deliver his/her duty as a coaching professional. Owing to the organization’s reputation, ICF certified coaching programs are one of the best coach training programs to become a successful coach.
What are the Benefits of Getting Credentialed by ICF?
- Obtaining an ICF credential/accreditation demonstrates and distinguishes professional practice. ICF Credential differentiates a credentialed/accredited coach from anybody who may call themselves a coach.
- Achieving ICF credentials signifies a coach’s commitment to integrity, understanding, and mastery of coaching skills, and dedication to clients.
- ICF is also a part of the GCMA (Global Coaching and Mentoring Alliance) – an alliance of global, professional coaching and mentoring bodies, currently including the Association for Coaching (AC), the European Mentoring and Coaching Council (EMCC), and the ICF.
- ICF offers the only globally recognized, independent credentialing program for coach practitioners.
- ICF also connects member coaches with the tools and resources they need to succeed in their careers.
- Organizations, whether corporate, government, or nonprofit, are increasingly requesting, if not requiring, that all coaches they work with hold an ACC, PCC, or MCC Credential from ICF.
Do I need a ICF Certification to get clients as a coach?
Honestly, you do not necessarily need credentials to work as a coach. Many of us know coaches who do not hold credentials yet still have a long list of clients (perhaps a waiting list too). Of course, your skills and experience as a coach have a value beyond the words behind your name or title on a business card. However, we must acknowledge the broader influence a credential provides to the profession and the individual
Would you work/engage with a doctor or lawyer who does not hold a license/credential from the standard governing body in their respective profession? How confident would you be that they possess (and maintain) the required knowledge and skills for the services you need? Most of us would hire the professional with the appropriate credentials without a doubt.
As coaching is not formally/centrally regulated, the ICF Credential provides coaches with recognition as coaching professionals who have gone through rigorous accredited training, completed coaching experience hours, assessment, and compliance with standards of practice – which ensure current/potential clients that they are working with a qualified coach.
Team Transformation is an ICF accredited coach training institute providing ICF Coaching Certification Training Courses, both online and offline. We have extensive programs designed for professionals, leaders, executives, and individuals who want to hone their coaching skills under credentialed mentors and experienced coaches.
