Becoming a life coach is a rewarding journey that involves using specific skills and experience to help others. In this article, we’ll explore how you can start a career as a life coach, including the time it takes, necessary checks and insurance, how to kick-start your career, required skills, and the future prospects in this field.
Life coaching is not regulated in the UK, (yet!), which means that anyone can work as a life coach if they feel they have the necessary skills and traits. However, if you do decide to become a life coach without any training, and regulation is brought in, you may be required to further training to continue working. It is also worth noting that business indemnity insurance, which protects you against loss or damage made by clients or third parties, will only be given if you have accreditation to prove you can deliver the services you offer.
How do I become a life coach?
Although there are no specific requirements to becoming a life coach, there are lots of life coach qualifications you can take. Each one will have its own entry requirements. You can look at:
- Apprenticeships
- Colleges
- Universities
- Coaching associations and online courses
How long does it take to become a life coach?
Becoming a life coach is not a one-size-fits-all process. The time it takes varies depending on the training you choose, your personal commitment, and the pace at which you learn. Generally, life coach training programs can last anywhere from a few months to a year. The Unbreakable Mindset Method Academy Certification can be completed in as little as 6 months if you commit to 4 hours of training per week, but you have up to 12 months to complete the course.
Do I need DBS checks to become a life coach?
Unlike certain professions that require Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks, life coaching typically does not demand this clearance. However, if you plan to work with vulnerable individuals or specialise in areas where a DBS check is relevant, it might be an idea to apply for one anyway. They cost around £30.
Do I need insurance to become a life coach?
While it’s not a legal requirement, obtaining professional indemnity insurance is highly recommended for life coaches. This insurance protects you against potential legal claims arising from professional negligence or errors. It adds a layer of security and professionalism to your practice, giving both you and your clients peace of mind.
How do I start my career as a life coach?
To kick-start your career as a life coach, consider the following steps:
Get Experience of Coaching
Gain practical experience by offering your services to friends, family, or volunteering in your community. This hands-on experience will build your confidence and enhance your coaching skills. Coaching a real client is part of the Unbreakable Mindset Academy training, so you get to put into practice everything you have learned with support from your mentor and other students in the academy.
Join a Professional Body
Membership of a professional body helps you to stay updated on best practices and adds another layer of professionalism to your work. The Unbreakable Mindset Certification is accredited by the ACCPH, a professional body and you can gain membership as a graduate once your training is completed.
Set Up an Online Presence
Whether you choose to have a website, social media platforms, or both, having a strong online presence can significantly boost your visibility and give you the space to market your services to those who need them. Our world is very much digital now and it’s unlikely you’d thrive as a business without some form of online presence. In the Unbreakable Mindset Academy students are encouraged to share their social accounts so that they can support one another and cheer each other on.
Freelance
Consider freelancing when you first qualify to build your experience and clientele. Freelancing allows you to choose your clients and focus on specific niches, helping you tailor your services to your strengths. It can also be done alongside a regular job if you have one, so that you can make the switch to full time when you’re ready.
What skills do I need to have as a life coach?
Being a successful life coach requires a combination of interpersonal and business skills. Here are some key skills:
Empathy
Being able to understand and share the feelings of your clients is one of the keys to effective coaching. Empathy helps to build a trusting and supportive coach-client relationship.
Communication
You must be able to articulate ideas, delve into what your client says, ask lots of questions, and actively listen to your clients.
Note Taking
Keeping thorough and organised notes during sessions helps monitor progress from week to week, spot trends and patterns in thinking and behaviour, and ensures you keep on track so that your client achieves their goals.
Self-Starter
As a life coach, you’re essentially an entrepreneur. Being a self-starter means taking the initiative to market yourself, manage your business, and continuously improve your skills.
Marketing
Successful life coaches are good at marketing themselves. Use various channels, both online and offline, to promote your services and attract clients.
Staying Calm in Stressful Situations
Life coaching often involves addressing challenging and emotional situations. The ability to stay calm and composed under pressure, while also being empathetic is important in providing effective support. It will also help to reassure your client.
Stress Management
As a coach, you’ll encounter clients dealing with stress and you’ll experience it yourself. Having the tools to manage stress, which we teach in the Unbreakable Mindset Academy, will enable you to guide your clients effectively and set a positive example.
What are the future prospects for a life coach?
The demand for life coaches is expected to grow as people increasingly seek guidance in achieving personal and professional goals. With a focus on well-being and personal development, the future prospects for life coaches are promising.
Life coaching also lends itself well to other areas that you can progress to or use your coaching skills within, including:
- Team leading
- Teaching
- Training
- Consulting
- Public speaking
Becoming a life coach is an exciting and rewarding journey, with many practical applications. Book a call to find out more about becoming a certified and accredited life coach with The Unbreakable Mindset Academy.
