Becoming a certified coach isn’t easy, but it’s worth it if you want to make a meaningful impact on other people’s lives, while improving your professional recognition. The International Coaching Federation (ICF) is recognized for its ethics and practice standards helping accredited coaches provide high-quality and impactful services to their clients.
Getting this certification not only validates your coaching skills but also makes you stand out as a reliable coach in the industry. In this article, we will give a simple step-by-step guide on how to become an ICF certified coach in Abu Dhabi or in the UAE in general.
Step 1: Learn About The ICF Certification
Before you begin the certification process, know what is essential. You should have an understanding of the type of coaching you are intended to excel in. It’s best to research the role and find the benefits, ICF’s code of ethics, and core competencies. Once you know the foundation of what you will do, you can align your skills with the ICF standards.
Step 2: Get Coach-Specific Training
There are different types of coaching, and every type has coach-specific training hours. Whether you want to become a professional coach, part-time coach, or an ICF certified executive coach in Dubai, you should check the type, of course, you want to follow.
For example, a diploma in coaching will differ from certification training. The toolbox of skills they cover in a diploma might be different from a certification coach, so be mindful of selecting the correct type of course that is an ICF-accredited coach-training program.
Step 3: Make Sure To Meet The Coaching Hours
To become a certified coach, you should meet the coaching hours prescribed by the standards. These hours might include pro bono and paid coaching sessions. You should keep track of the coaching sessions and hours to validate your training.
Step 4: Select Your ICF Certification Level
There are 3 types of certification levels, such as Master Certified Coach (MCC), Professional Certified Coach (PCC), and Associate Certified Coach (ACC).
You can select the ICF certification level based on your training, goals, and coaching experience. It’s best to review the specific requirements before you enroll.
Step 5: Select Mentor Coaching
If you plan on following higher levels of certifications, you will definitely need this step. Through mentor coaching, you will get mentorship from ICF-certified, experienced coaches who will provide feedback and guidance to help you hone your coaching skills.
Step 6: Prepare for the ICF Credentialing Exam
To reach the PCC and ACC levels, you’ll have to pass the ICF Coach Knowledge Assessment (CKA) exam. This exam tests your coaching ethics, core competencies, and principles. You should prepare for the exam by going through the
ICF’s coach knowledge exam blueprint and other study materials.
Step 7: Submit Your Coaching Application
You have to complete the application process on the official website. When completing the application process, you’ll have to provide details related to coaching hours, mentor coaching, training, and more. You can apply with the essential documents once you have met all the eligibility criteria.
Step 8: Wait For The Approval
After submitting the application, it’ll be reviewed by the ICF to make sure that your documents meet the standards of the selected certification level. While this process may take a few weeks, it’s wise to stay patient.
Step 9: Renew Your Credential
Once you have the ICF certification, you must renew it every three years by showing your professional development and coaching practice. Make sure to stay updated with coaching trends.
Conclusion
Becoming a certified executive coach in Dubai and Abu Dhabi is rewarding but requires training, commitment, and an excellent level of dedication. Following this step-by-step guide, you can confidently walk through the procedures to get the certification and venture into a rewarding career as a certified coach, positively influencing individuals and organizations in the UAE and beyond.
