Choosing the Right Coach: A Guide to Finding Your Perfect Fit
My episode on the Daring to Succeed podcast, with fellow coach Julianna, is all about how to find and what makes the 10/10 client-coach relationship.
When it comes to coaching, the right fit can make all the difference. Coaching is an investment—of time, energy, and money—so it’s essential to find someone who truly aligns with your needs and goals. But how do you determine who that is? And, just as importantly, how do you know if you’re even ready for coaching in the first place?
In this blog, based on my chat with Julianna, I’ve summed up the key considerations for choosing a coach, signs that you’re ready (or not), and how to know if it’s the right match.
Finding the Right Fit: Why Coaching Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All
A coach isn’t just someone who provides guidance; they’re a partner in your growth. That’s why the relationship has to feel right. As I tell everyone who is considering it, coaching isn’t simply about finding an expert—it's about finding your expert:
“A coach is not just someone with a title. The right coach for you should feel like someone you can trust, someone who understands you, and someone whose methods align with what you need. This is why discovery calls are so important—they give you a chance to feel that connection before making a commitment.”
Every coach has their own style, approach, and philosophy. Some are direct and challenge you right away. Others take a softer, more reflective approach. Understanding how a coach operates and whether that works for you is essential.
Do you need a coach?
The rules of career success have changed. Many of us have followed outdated checklists—ones passed down by parents or shaped by cultural expectations that no longer align with today's world. These old patterns may have helped us get to a certain point, but they aren’t always the key to getting where we truly want to go.
It’s a common realisation: What got me here won’t take me there. But identifying what needs to change and how to evolve isn’t always easy when you’re in the thick of it. This is where an external perspective—a coach—can be invaluable.
My Top 3 reflective questions to identify if you need coaching.
If you're unsure whether coaching is right for you, take 20–30 minutes of quiet reflection and ask::
How long has this challenge been present in my life?
When did it start? Has it been lingering for months, years, or even decades? Seeing that timeline in perspective can be eye-opening.What is this issue really costing me?
Beyond surface frustrations, consider the deeper impact. Is it affecting your confidence, your career progression, your relationships, or even your financial future? How does it shape your daily life and long-term aspirations?What happens if I do nothing?
Imagine your life in 12 months, five years, or even a decade from now. If this challenge remains unaddressed—if nothing changes—where will you be? What opportunities might you miss?
Are You Ready for Coaching?
Before you start searching for the perfect coach, take a moment to reflect on whether you’re truly ready to be coached. As Julianna pointed out, this is a crucial step that many people overlook. Here are three key questions to ask yourself:
Are you open to different perspectives?
Coaching is about growth, and growth often requires seeing things in a new way. If you’re only looking for validation rather than transformation, you may not be ready yet.
Are you willing to take action?
Coaching isn’t just about talking—it’s about doing. If you’re not ready to try new things or step outside your comfort zone, you may not get the results you’re looking for.
Can you make coaching a priority right now?
Coaching requires time, energy, and commitment. If your personal or professional life is currently overwhelming, it might be better to wait until you can fully engage in the process.
The ‘10 out of 10’ Feeling
Julianna and I talked about the magic of a great coaching match. When it’s right, you feel it. But what does that actually look like?
I describe it as a mix of excitement and relief: “Sometimes people laugh out loud because they’re so excited to start. Or they say, ‘That was only 30 minutes, but I already feel so much better!’”
Julianna talked about the momentum: “If you’re feeling like, ‘Okay, let’s do this. What’s next?’, that’s a good sign. But if you’re hesitant, something might be off—either with the coach, the process, or your own readiness.”
Final Thoughts
Finding the right coach isn’t just about their credentials—it’s about timing, fit, and mutual commitment. Take the time to do your due diligence, ask the right questions, and trust your instincts. My final piece of advice is to book a discovery call. They’re no commitment. It’s nothing to be scared of, but you won’t truly know until you have a chat with someone.
If you’re ready to explore coaching, don’t hesitate to reach out. Even if I’m not the right fit for you, I may be able to refer you to someone who is.
Listen to the full episode below:
Connect with Julianna:
Website – https://www.jyycoaching.com