How to choose an executive coach.
Anyone can call themselves an executive coach, and the title isn't regulated. Here are the questions worth asking before you hire one.
1. What's your training?
Look for real training in how people think and change. Coaches range from certificate programs to doctoral-level psychologists. Ask what license or degree they hold and whether you can verify it. (Mine: California psychology license PSY 19654.)
2. What's your method?
A good answer is specific: how goals are set, how progress is measured, and what happens between sessions. Methods with research behind them include specific goals, if-then plans and progress tracking.
3. How will we know it's working?
You should agree at the start on what progress looks like: a decision made, a conversation had, a step finished.
4. Will you tell me the truth?
Senior people get plenty of agreement. You're paying for honest feedback. Ask how they handle it when a client is avoiding the real issue.
5. What does it cost, exactly?
Prices should be clear up front. For reference: I charge $500 for one 60-minute session and $3,000 for three months of private coaching.
6. Is it confidential?
Ask how they handle privacy, especially if your company is paying.
7. What happens if I need more than coaching?
A good coach knows the limits of coaching and will tell you if something needs another kind of help. Psychologists are trained to recognize this.
Hi, I'm Dr. Jennifer.
I'm Dr. Jennifer Johnston-Jones, a California-licensed psychologist for more than 20 years. I did my undergraduate training at the University of Oregon and earned my PhD at the California School of Professional Psychology, an APA-accredited program. I've held clinical positions at the UCLA Neuropsychological Institute, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, St. John's Hospital and Children's Hospital Los Angeles, among others. My clients include senior executives at major companies, Academy Award-winning actors, Olympic medalists, and professional athletes.
Before you book.
Do executive coaches need a license?
No. Coaching isn't a licensed profession, so training varies widely. Psychologists who coach are licensed by their state for psychology, which is a separate credential.
How long does executive coaching take?
It depends on the goal. Some people need one focused session; bigger changes usually take a few months of regular sessions.
How much does it cost?
The Conversation is one 60-minute session for $500. Private Coaching is three months of regular one-on-one sessions for $3,000. Not sure yet? Book a free 15-minute fit call first.
Ready to start?
The Conversation: one 60-minute session, $500. Most people know by the end of it whether to keep going.
Have a question first? Send a message.